The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that the recreational harvest of red grouper in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico, excluding Monroe County waters, closed on July 1.

It will remain closed through Dec. 31.

The closure was based on an executive order issued by the FWC at a recent commission meeting to prevent overfishing and help ensure fishing opportunities. The closure is consistent with the closure in Gulf federal waters.

For current recreational red grouper regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations” and then “Grouper.” People can also download the Fish Rules App to keep up to date on current recreational regulations.