Reef Fish Overview

Reef fish species are jointly managed by state and federal agencies for the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.  In federal waters of the Atlantic (beyond 3 miles), reef fish are managed by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council.

In federal waters of the Gulf (beyond 9 miles), reef fish species are managed by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council.  NOAA Fisheries Service assists in the management and is responsible for implementing the federal regulations.

The state waters of both Florida coasts are managed by the FWC.

In most cases, management agencies work together to implement consistent fishing regulations.  Occasionally, state and federal agencies decide to use different approaches to manage marine species in their jurisdictions.

The FWC coordinates and participates in federal management of reef fish, including data collection and research, stock assessments, representatives on the Councils, and enforcement of all regulations.

Black Sea Bass

• Black Sea Bass Information 

Miscellaneous Reef Fish

• Greater Amberjack
• Gray Triggerfish

Grouper

• Gulf Grouper Information
• Atlantic Grouper Information
• Goliath Grouper Information

Snapper

• Gulf Snapper
• Atlantic Snapper

Other Reef Fish Issues

• Reef fish gear rules for state and federal waters
• Map - Boundary Between Atlantic and Gulf
• Opportunities for recreational anglers to contribute to reef fish research