NOAA Text System Keeps Local Recreational Fishermen Updated
Gulf Shores News Staff • April 1, 2026
Open close dates and bag limits change often
Living along the coast provides local recreational fishermen easy access to the many species of fish living in the Gulf of America. In recent years local anglers have found the season dates and bag limits often changed by NOAA due to species availability. It can be frustrating for recreational fisherman and woman to keep up with.
Now NOAA has as easy system system which will text you any changes in your local region. NOAA Fisheries offers a Text Message Alert Program that provides recreational and commercial fishermen with immediate updates on fishery openings and closures, as well as rapid changes to fishing regulations.
How to Sign Up
To subscribe, text the specific keyword for your region to 888777. Common groups for recreational anglers include:
- Gulf of America (formerly Gulf of Mexico) Recreational: Text
GULFRECFISHto 888777.
It is that easy and you will receive timely information about fishing in gulf water around this region. The staff of Gulf Shores News will still posts fishing news and regulations, but incase you miss reading an update it will arrive on your direct messages. The service is free, though standard message and data rates from your carrier may apply.
Until you start using the NOAA text system here are the 2026 basic rules of recreational gulf fishing:
Key Rules & Requirements
- State vs. Federal Waters: State waters generally extend 9 nautical miles offshore in the Gulf. If you are fishing from a private boat, your season is often managed by your state (e.g., Outdoor Alabama or Florida FWC).
- Descending Devices: You must have a venting tool or rigged descending device on board and ready for use when fishing for reef fish in federal waters to help released fish survive.
- Circle Hooks: Non-stainless steel, non-offset circle hooks are required when using natural baits for reef fish.
- Registration: In many states, like Florida and Alabama, you must register as a State Reef Fish Angler (often free) to harvest species like Snapper or Grouper from a private vessel.
Note on Red Snapper: While the federal for-hire (charter) season is fixed, private angler dates for Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida are typically announced in the spring once state quotas are finalized.
The GSN writers wish you calm waters and good fishing line strength. Make sure to update your safety equipment and sent us a picture of the catch of a lifetime.
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