The group that manages Gulf of Mexico fishing in federal waters says states can keep managing anglers' catch of red snapper. The popular sport and table fish is still recovering from nearly disastrous overfishing.
The Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council announced the decision Thursday in Biloxi, Mississippi.
Louisiana calls it a victory for recreational anglers.
Environmental groups expressed guarded optimism, saying more work is needed because each state counts its recreational catch differently.
After years of fighting as recreational seasons got shorter and shorter, the Trump administration extended a three-day season to 42 days in 2017. Last year, the government set up a pilot program for state management of the recreational anglers' season. That program ends this year.
The federal government still regulates commercial and charter boat catches.
