An exempted fishing permit will expand recreational anglers’ access to Atlantic red snapper while giving the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) better data to guide population management.
SCDNR has received approval from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to pilot a new, state-based data collection program for the species. The effort—developed in partnership with North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida—is designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the red snapper fishery.
Recent data suggests Atlantic red snapper are no longer overfished and that overfishing may no longer be occurring. Through the permit, SCDNR will gather information on angler participation, harvest totals, and catch-and-release activity. Those insights are expected to support a more sustainable and accessible recreational fishery.
SCDNR plans to share additional details about the pilot program in the coming weeks.