Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Atlantic Billfish Fisheries
other · atlantic hms · Published 2020-09-16 · Effective 2020-09-30 · 85 FR 57783
Document
Document number
2020-20409
Federal Register citation
85 FR 57783
Type
Rule
Action
Temporary rule; Action restricting recreational fishing for Atlantic blue marlin, white marlin, and roundscale spearfish to catch- and-release fishing.
Category
other
Region
atlantic hms
Publication date
2020-09-16
Effective date
2020-09-30
NOAA docket
Docket No. 030908222-6241-02
Abstract
NMFS has determined that the recreational landings limit for Atlantic blue marlin, white marlin, and roundscale spearfish has been reached and exceeded for 2020, based upon a review of landings data. Therefore, NMFS is prohibiting retention of Atlantic blue marlin, white marlin, and roundscale spearfish in the Atlantic HMS recreational fisheries. Fishing for these species will be limited to catch-and- release only for the remainder of 2020. This action affects Angling and Charter/Headboat permit holders, tournament operators, and Atlantic tunas General category or Swordfish General Commercial permit holders that fish in registered Atlantic HMS tournaments, and is effective in all areas of the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic sailfish may continue to be retained consistent with applicable regulations.