• Mississippi angler breaks state record by catching a 6-pound vermilion snapper with an electric reel.
• Red snapper season started May 23 with a two-fish daily limit and 16-inch size rule.
• Largemouth bass, Mississippi’s state fish, grows large and remains popular among local anglers.

Joseph Hoang from Biloxi, Mississippi, caught a bright red vermilion snapper that set a new fishing record. He used an electric reel, which helped him land this impressive fish. The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) quickly certified his catch as the new all-tackle state saltwater fish record for May. The snapper weighed 6 pounds and 9.6 ounces. This exciting catch shows how popular fishing remains in Mississippi and highlights the skills of local anglers.

Vermilion Snapper’s Size, Color, and Habitat Details

Vermilion snappers stand out because of their bright red color and slender bodies. They can grow up to 24 inches long and weigh as much as 7 pounds. According to NOAA, these fish live in warm waters stretching from North Carolina all the way to Brazil. They swim around the West Indies, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. Their vivid color and size make them a favorite among saltwater anglers. Knowing their range helps fishermen find these fish during the fishing season.

Red Snapper Season Opens with Strict Limits in Mississippi

Mississippi opened its red snapper fishing season on May 23. Anglers get to keep only two red snappers each day. They must follow the 16-inch minimum size limit, which helps protect younger fish. These rules balance fun fishing with preserving the fish population. The limits also help ensure future seasons stay strong and anglers keep coming back. Many fishermen respect these rules because they know healthy fish populations support the sport they love.

Mississippi’s State Fish and Its Popularity Among Anglers

The largemouth bass holds the title as Mississippi’s state fish. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) says it’s the most common fish in the state. This bass attracts many anglers because it grows quite large and puts up a strong fight. Fishermen often seek largemouth bass in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs across Mississippi.

Largemouth Bass Size and Why Anglers Love It

Largemouth bass in Mississippi can weigh from 10 to 15 pounds. Some can grow longer than 26 inches. This size excites anglers who enjoy the challenge of catching big fish. Many fishing tournaments center around largemouth bass, showing how popular it remains. The fish’s size and fighting ability make it a prized catch for both casual and serious fishermen.