January 26, 2023 — New federal regulations from the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration will slash the amount of red snapper that recreation anglers in Mississippi can reel in unless changes are made, according to state leaders.
While the quota cuts won’t impact the commercial side, the changes on the recreational side are still a concern for the many fishermen who travel to the gulf each year and anglers who live there.
“We have a group of family and friends that fish regularly together,” said Michael Pierce.
Pierce lives and plays around Bay St Louis.
The coastal city, like so many others along the Mississippi sound, is a haven for anglers across the state.
“It’s great for like the kids. Something they can enjoy, because it is so easy to go out, catch your snapper,” said Pierce.
Red snapper is one of the most sought-after fish in the south.
NOAA regulates fishing in federal waters. Five gulf states, including Mississippi, receive a federal allocation.