Goliath Grouper Applications Open Oct. 1

Applications for limited-entry recreational harvest of goliath grouper in state waters open Oct. 1, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The application period runs Oct. 1-15. Those interested can apply Oct. 1-15 for the upcoming 2025 season, which begins March 1.

The cost to apply for the lottery is $10, plus fees, and permit lottery applications will be available online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. Permits to participate will be awarded by a random draw lottery.

Successful conservation efforts over the years have helped build the grouper population to the point that a rec season could be opened in state waters.

FLORIDA GOLIATH GROUPER INFO

• Total recreational harvest of up to 200 goliath per year, with a maximum of 50 from Everglades National Park.
• A goliath harvest permit and tag, issued via a random-draw lottery ($150 for residents, $500 for non-residents, plus fees) are required to participate. Permits and tags are non-transferable, and no exemptions apply.
• A limit of one fish per person per open season with permit and tag.
• An open season from March 1 through May 31.
• Hook-and-line as the only allowable gear.
• A slot limit of 24-36 inches total length.
• Post-harvest requirements include proper application of the tag, reporting harvest data and submitting a fin clip for genetic analysis.
• Harvest will be permitted in all state waters except those of Martin County south through the Atlantic coast of the Keys, all of the St. Lucie River and its tributaries, and Dry Tortugas National Park.
• Harvest will continue to be prohibited in federal waters.

This opportunity is intended to provide additional access to this fishery while balancing the values of various stakeholder groups. Adult goliath grouper will continue to be prohibited from harvest statewide as well as goliath in heavy dive ecotourism areas. This limited harvest is not intended to address fishing depredation concerns.

For more information about the goliath grouper harvest permit and details on the permit lottery and eligibility requirements, visit the Goliath Grouper Harvest Permit webpage. Click for more information about goliath grouper regulations.

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