Snook Season 2024

Snook season in Florida is a treat every time. Known for their solid fight, elusive nature, and delicious taste, snook are among the most sought-after game fish in Florida's coastal waters. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer eager to experience the thrill, understanding the ins and outs of snook season is essential for a successful trip.

When is Snook Season in Florida?

Snook season varies depending on location due to the species' sensitivity to water temperatures and conservation efforts to ensure sustainable populations. Florida is divided into 9 different snook management regions, each with their own regulations and seasons.

Florida Panhandle Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: March 1 2024 - April 31 2024; September 1 2024 - November 30 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 33 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Panama City

Florida Big Bend Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: March 1 2024 - April 31 2024; September 1 2024 - November 30 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 33 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Crystal River

Tampa Bay Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: March 1 2024 - April 31 2024; September 1 2024 - November 30 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 33 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Clearwater

Sarasota Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: March 1 2024 - April 31 2024; September 1 2024 - November 30 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 33 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Sarasota

Charlotte Harbor Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: March 1 2024 - April 31 2024; October 1 2024 - November 30 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 33 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Fort Myers

Southwest Florida and Florida Keys Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: March 1 2024 - April 31 2024; October 1 2024 - November 30 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 33 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Islamorada

Southeast Florida Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: February 1 2024 - May 31 2024; September 1 2024 - December 14 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 32 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Miami

Indian River Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: February 1 2024 - May 31 2024; September 1 2024 - December 14 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 32 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Melbourne

Northeast Florida Snook Season & Regulations 2024

• Season: February 1 2024 - May 31 2024; September 1 2024 - December 14 2024
• Slot: Fish must be between 28 and 32 inches total length
• Bag Limit: 1 fish per person per day
• Where to fish: Port Orange

For more information on seasons and bag limits, check the Florida FWC website.

Understanding Snook: The Ultimate Game Fish

Snook, also known as the “linesider” due to the distinct lateral line running down their bodies, are prized for their powerful strikes, acrobatic leaps, and impressive speed. They thrive in Florida's warm waters, particularly around mangroves, estuaries, and coastal beaches where they hunt for baitfish like mullet and pilchards.

Snook are known for their intelligence and wariness, making them challenging but rewarding to catch. Here are some tips to improve your chances:

• Use Live Bait: Snook are opportunistic feeders, and using live bait like pinfish, shrimp, or pilchards can be highly effective. Casting your bait near structures like mangroves or docks often yields the best results.
• Time Your Fishing: Snook are most active during low-light conditions, so early morning, late evening, and night fishing can be particularly productive. Additionally, fishing around tide changes, especially high tide, can lead to great catches.
• Light Tackle for the Win: Using light tackle enhances the fight, allowing you to feel every headshake and run. A medium-action rod with a 3000-4000 size reel spooled with 10-20 lb braid and a 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader is an ideal setup.
• Be Stealthy: Snook are sensitive to noise and movement. Approach quietly, use a stealthy presentation, and be prepared for a quick strike when they take the bait.