Seafood is more than just a staple in the American diet; it is the backbone of our coastal communities, a driving force in their economies, and an industry that provides jobs for 1.3 million Americans nationwide.

True red snapper is one of America’s most prized food fish, and it is caught predominantly by small, family-owned commercial fishing businesses in the Gulf of Mexico.  Without these fishermen, red snapper would not be available in your local grocery’s fish case or on your favorite menu. Commercial fishermen caught 10 billion pounds of seafood in 2013 alone. Because of their efforts, restaurants across the nation are now able to source more locally harvested seafood.

Recently, the Gulf red snapper fishery has been a source of contention in Congress, as some members wish to undo the successes of commercial management by transferring management authority to the Gulf states.

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