Amberjack Season 2024

Amberjack Season 2024: A Complete Guide for Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida

Amberjack Season 2024 is here, and anglers across the Gulf of Mexico are gearing up for another exciting year of fishing. Known for their incredible strength, amberjack are at the top of the list when it comes to reef and bottom fishing. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 amberjack season in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.

Amberjack Overview

Amberjack, particularly the Greater Amberjack, is one of the most sought-after species in the Gulf of Mexico. These fish are recognized for their size, power, and tenacity, making them a favorite among anglers. Typically found near offshore reefs, wrecks, and other structures, amberjack can weigh anywhere from 30 to over 100 pounds and pull like they weigh twice as much.

Amberjack Season Dates for 2024

Each Gulf state sets its own regulations for amberjack fishing, often aligning with federal guidelines set by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to manage the overall health of the population. Here are the season dates and limits for 2024 by state:

Texas Amberjack Season 2024

• Texas Amberjack Season Dates: May 1 2024 - May 31 2024 and August 1 2024 - October 31 2024
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Size Limit: Minimum size of 34 inches fork length
• Where to fish: Offshore platforms and wrecks near Port Aransas, South Padre Island, and Galveston.

Louisiana Amberjack Season 2024

• Louisiana Amberjack Season Dates: May 1 2024 - May 31 2024 and September 1 2024 - October 31 2024
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Size Limit: Minimum size of 34 inches fork length
• Where to fish: Rigs and reefs off Grand Isle, Venice, and offshore platforms in the Gulf.

Mississippi Amberjack Season 2024

• Mississippi Amberjack Season Dates: May 1 2024 - May 31 2024 and September 1 2024 - October 31 2024
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Size Limit: Minimum size of 34 inches fork length
• Where to fish: Offshore areas near Biloxi and Gulfport, with wrecks and artificial reefs being hotspots.

Alabama Amberjack Season 2024

• Alabama Amberjack Season Dates: September 1 2024 - October 31 2024
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Size Limit: Minimum size of 34 inches fork length
• Where to fish: The waters off Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are known for their artificial reefs and wrecks.

Florida Amberjack Season 2024

Gulf Coast

• Florida Amberjack Season Dates: September 1 2024 - October 31 2024
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Size Limit: Minimum size of 34 inches fork length
• Where to fish: The Panhandle, particularly around Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City, offers some of the best amberjack fishing in the state.

Atlantic Coast

• Florida Amberjack Season Dates: January 1 2024 - March 31 2024 and May 1 2024 to December 31 2024
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Size Limit: Minimum size of 28 inches fork length
• Where to fish: Top amberjack spots include the offshore reefs, wrecks, and deepwater structures near Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, where these powerful fish are often found lurking.

Tips for a Successful Amberjack Trip

• Use Heavy Tackle: Amberjack are known for their strength, so heavy-duty gear is essential. A strong rod, heavy braided line, and large capacity reels are recommended.
• Live Bait: Amberjack prefer live bait, such as blue runners, pinfish, or grunts. Drop them near structures to lure these powerful fish.
• Stay Safe: Offshore fishing can be challenging. Always check the weather, wear a life jacket, and ensure your vessel is equipped with the necessary safety gear.

Amberjack season 2024 offers anglers in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida a fantastic opportunity to reel in one of the Gulf’s most formidable fish. Good luck out there!