The latest catch statistics for recreational red snapper recorded by LA Creel, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ near real-time landings data collection program, are 407,117 pounds, or 54 percent of Louisiana’s annual private recreational allocation of 743,000 pounds.

The current weekends-only season will continue to run until recreational landings approach or reach Louisiana’s allocation.

This year, state and federal seasons are running concurrently because federal fisheries managers approved LDWF’s application for an Exempted Fishing Permit  (EFP) to manage the private recreational snapper season in state and federal waters in 2018 and 2019. Under the EFP, participating anglers are allowed to fish red snapper in the state territorial seas and adjoining federal waters, from shore to 200 nautical miles.

LDWF requests that recreational red snapper fishermen try out the tool developed to report catch electronically through the  ROLP website  or app. Though voluntary, reporting electronically will help us test this method of harvest data collection. Our goal is to continually improve our harvest data collection techniques to ensure our fishery resources are managed precisely and our fishermen have every possible opportunity to go out and catch fish. To get started on electronic reporting, go to  wlf.louisiana.gov/snapper-efp-faqs and see question #14 (If I opt to participate in voluntary electronic reporting, how do I report my catch?).

For more information on the 2018 red snapper season and detailed landing estimates, visit:  wlf.louisiana.gov/red-snapper.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.la.gov. To receive email alerts, signup at http://www.wlf.la.gov/signup.