Also known as: Beeliner, Bastard Snapper
Regulated nongame species - see bag & size limits Vermilion snappers look a lot like their relatives the red snappers, but they are smaller and have yellow lines on their sides and a pale belly. The dorsal fin is tipped, and the tails and iris of the eye are vermilion. They seldom exceed 15 inches, although the Texas record is 22.5 ", 5.6 lbs.
Life History: Vermilion snapper are found year-round offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, living with red snappers. Juveniles may stray into the bays. Spawning occurs in early spring.
Habitat & Range
Vermilion snapper prefer flat areas on the tops and around the bases of the snapper banks to the banks' steeply sloping sides. They are often found in concert with red and other snappers around structures in the Gulf.
Fish close to the bottom offshore near rigs and artificial reefs and around the tops and bottoms of snapper banks.
Life History
Vermilion snapper are found year-round offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, living with red snappers. Juveniles may stray into the bays. Spawning occurs in early spring.
License & Regulations
A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 5-day, and annual). Freshwater and saltwater endorsements may be required for certain waters. Purchase online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Life History
Vermilion snapper are found year-round offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, living with red snappers. Juveniles may stray into the bays. Spawning occurs in early spring.
Habitat
Vermilion snapper prefer flat areas on the tops and around the bases of the snapper banks to the banks' steeply sloping sides. They are often found in concert with red and other snappers around structures in the Gulf. Fish close to the bottom offshore near rigs and artificial reefs and around the tops and bottoms of snapper banks.
Fishing Tips
Best bait is fresh squid, although they will also eat crab, shrimp, or other small fish.
Interesting Facts
Eat as with other snapper, although the vermilion is not as popular a food source as it's cousin the red snapper.
Regulations
Texas fishing regulations apply to Vermilion Snapper. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some species have catch-and-release only restrictions or special tournament regulations. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual for current regulations specific to your fishing location. Possession limits in Texas are twice the daily bag limit unless otherwise noted.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-reside | Link |
