The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, concluding on November 30th, demonstrated higher-than-average storm activity and significantly impacted recreational fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Recreational fishers faced considerable disruptions and temporary closures due to hurricanes Beryl, Helene, and Milton, which inflicted substantial damage on numerous Gulf Coast fishing communities that are still in the process of recovery.
The repercussions of this intense hurricane season are still being felt across key sectors contributing to the coastal economy, most notably the recreational fishing community. Sean Meehan, NOAA Fisheries’ Southeast Recreational Fishing Coordinator, engaged with key industry stakeholders to fully understand the extent of this hurricane season’s effects.
“Hurricanes can disrupt delicate coastal marine ecosystems, and they also have a significant negative impact on the Gulf economy,” explains Sean Meehan. “Many businesses depend on tourism to support their local tackle shops and charter fishing operations. In Florida, I’ve spoken with many members of the recreational fishing community who have shared the challenges they are currently navigating following the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Rebuilding is underway, and we are focused on supporting their recovery and future growth.”
Recovery Strategies for the Fishing Industry Post-Hurricane
Hubbard’s Marina, a fixture in the Tampa Bay area since 1928, offers a range of services including deep-sea fishing expeditions, dolphin tours, sunset cruises, island excursions, and private fishing charters for both tourists and local residents. With four generations of family ownership and operation along the Gulf Coast, the Hubbard family possesses considerable experience with Atlantic hurricane seasons.
“This hurricane season has been incredibly challenging,” states Captain Dylan Hubbard, owner of Hubbard’s Marina. “However, despite the setbacks, our focus is on recovery. We managed to resume operations just days after the storms, but we are appealing to our neighbors inland to support local businesses and shop small to accelerate the recovery of our coastal and fishing communities.”
Hubbard’s Marina is just one example of the many fishing-related businesses in the Southeast that were affected by these severe storms. While some, like Hubbard’s, are making progress toward recovery, numerous others continue to face significant difficulties.
Red Snapper Reopening: A Silver Lining for Gulf Fishing
An unexpected opportunity arose in the Gulf this past fall and winter with the reopening of the 2024 Federal Gulf of Mexico red snapper recreational for-hire season. The season was reinstated on November 18, 2024, and remained open until 12:01 a.m. local time on January 1, 2025. NOAA Fisheries’ decision to reopen the season was based on updated landings data indicating that the red snapper recreational federal for-hire annual catch target had not been met during the initial open season. This reopening provided federally permitted for-hire fishermen in the Gulf of Mexico with an additional chance to utilize the remaining allocation and was intended to deliver a late-season economic boost to the Gulf States.
Key Impacts of Hurricanes on Gulf Recreational Fishing
Heightened Safety Concerns and Widespread Storm Damage
Significant damage to marinas, piers, and docks, which are crucial access points to waterways in the Gulf, is among the widespread impacts. The intense weather conditions associated with hurricanes, including rough seas, heavy rainfall, and high winds, create hazardous conditions for anglers, particularly those using smaller boats.
Anglers fishing from the shore are also experiencing limited access as many key entry points to the water have been damaged or are temporarily inaccessible. Private recreational fishermen who do not own boats often depend on these shoreline access points for fishing. Hurricanes can destroy or severely damage these vital structures used by shore-based anglers.
Detrimental Effects on the Marine Environment
Hurricanes can severely disrupt marine ecosystems, disturbing established patterns of fish populations and various species. Increased runoff of sand, sediment, and nutrients into the Gulf can negatively impact the health of critical habitats for fish spawning and feeding.
In more extreme situations, entire waterways can become blocked, causing certain fish species to temporarily relocate from affected areas. While these species often return once conditions stabilize, these disruptions affect the consistency and volume of fish caught in specific locations.
Significant Economic Repercussions
Numerous recreational fishing charter businesses have been forced to suspend operations or close temporarily due to storm-related damage. Tackle shops, boat rental services, and bait suppliers also face financial losses due to decreased tourism in hurricane-impacted regions. Many local economies throughout the Gulf region heavily rely on tourism to sustain year-round operations.
Despite the numerous challenges presented by the 2024 hurricane season, there have been inspiring instances of community solidarity and mutual support in recovery efforts. Continuing to engage in fishing activities is a crucial way to support the recovery of businesses and communities affected by the hurricanes.
