'This is really a blessing': Here's the latest information on amberjack season

In just a matter of weeks, anglers will be able to catch amberjack in the Gulf of Mexico. 

The Gulf of Mexico greater amberjack recreational fishing season reopens 12:01 a.m. on May 1 and will close at 12:01 a.m. on June 1, according to a news release from the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council. 

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The council is also looking to change the fall recreation season opening to Sept. 1 in place of the current Aug. 1, which would be a fall season from September through October. 

How are the seasons set? 

Recreational greater amberjack has an accountability measure that the fishing season will be closed when the annual catch target is met or projected to be met, according to the release. 

What does this mean for charter boats in Destin?

“This is really a blessing,” said Destin Charter Boat Association President Jim Green.  

“Those who already booked trips will be elated to know they have access to another fish to catch and it will help sell trips to those that have not or maybe on the fence about booking one,” Green said. 

“We always want as much notice as possible, but this is a benefit not just to our fleet but our local economy as well,” he added. 

Destin is home to more than 100 charter boats working out of one port.

What is the catch limit?

The daily bag limit for greater amberjack is one per person and it must measure 34 inches to the fork of the tail.