MURRELLS INLET, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) has submitted an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) request to the U.S. Department of Commerce and NOAA Fisheries that would allow the State to pilot a longer recreational red snapper season beginning in 2026. The proposal seeks authorization for a 61- or 62-day season and aims to improve data collection, enhance access, and support long-term sustainability of the fishery.

The request parallels similar EFP submissions by Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina last week. Collectively, these proposals seek to evaluate whether real-time, state-driven reporting will produce more timely and reliable data to inform effective management of the Atlantic red snapper stock.

“This proposal reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship and the use of sound science to guide fisheries management,” said SCDNR Director Dr. Tom Mullikin. “A pilot season with enhanced reporting requirements will help us better understand harvest patterns, ensure sustainable access, and improve the data needed to support long-term decision-making.”

State Senator Stephen Goldfinch expressed support for the proposal, noting that a longer season paired with real-time reporting would provide managers with more accurate information to evaluate future management strategies. Industry partners also welcomed the effort.

“This effort is built on collaboration - with anglers, our partner states across the Southeast, and NOAA,” said SCDNR Marine Resources Deputy Director, Blaik Keppler. “Together, we’re working to improve the science, expand fair access to red snapper, and ensure this fishery remains healthy for generations to come.”

“South Carolina’s marine fisheries managers have put forward a thoughtful, data-driven proposal,” said Gettys Brannon, President & CEO of the South Carolina Boating & Fishing Alliance. “This EFP reflects years of coordination and will help improve both access and scientific understanding of this fishery.”

If approved, the EFP would allow South Carolina to conduct a two-month recreational season in 2026, replacing the short federal openings that have historically limited harvest opportunities. All participating anglers would be required to report trips electronically through a mobile app, allowing SCDNR to monitor harvest in near real time. Bag and size limits would allow one fish per person with a 20-inch minimum size limit.

The application also outlines challenges with the federal Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), which often produces highly uncertain landings estimates due to narrow federal seasons and low angler intercept rates. The pilot program would test whether state-level reporting can help reduce uncertainty and provide improved data for management.

“This is an important step for both access and long-term sustainability,” said Coastal Conservation Association South Carolina Executive Director Scott Whitaker. “We look forward to working with SCDNR as this proposal moves forward.”

Support for evaluating state-led snapper management has grown regionally, with leaders in all four South Atlantic states expressing interest in approaches that improve data quality and management flexibility.

SCDNR submitted its EFP to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick last Monday. Pending federal approval, South Carolina could implement the pilot red snapper season in 2026.