Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Bluefin Tuna Recreational Fishery

NMFS adjusts the daily retention limit for the recreational fisheries for Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) for the fishing year that began June 1, 2002, and ends May 31, 2003. Vessels permitted in the Atlantic Tunas Angling and the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Charter/Headboat categories are eligible to land BFT under the BFT Angling category quotas. The seasonal adjustments to the daily retention limit for each BFT size class is specified in the DATES and SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document. This action is being taken to provide increased fishing opportunities in all areas without risking overharvest in this category.