Gag Grouper Season 2026 Rules | Orlando News

Gag grouper season in Florida’s Gulf waters kicks off September 1 and ends at midnight October 1—except Monroe County waters are off-limits. This change syncs with federal closures (Jan 1–Aug 31) to better manage the species, which is vulnerable due to declining mature males. These reef fish, found near rocks or grasses, require a 24-inch minimum size and a two-per-person limit (part of a four-grouper cap). Anglers on private boats must have an active free State Reef Fish Angler Designation to help FWC monitor catches and ensure sustainability. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/cb4fec9877578d6a