The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) issued a Declaration of Emergency to close the recreational greater amberjack season in Louisiana waters at 12:01 a.m. on October 14, 2026.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries informed LDWF Secretary Tyler Bosworth that the 2026 annual catch target has been projected to be met and that the recreational season for the harvest of greater amberjack will close in federal waters of the Gulf on Oct. 14, 2026, and remain closed until the start of the regularly scheduled 2027 season, currently Sept. 1, 2027. Compatible season regulations in state waters are preferable to provide effective rules and efficient enforcement for the fisheries and to prevent long-term overfishing of the species.
