Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Golden Crab Fishery of the South Atlantic Region; Gear and Vessel Management Measures

NMFS issues this final rule to implement a regulatory amendment prepared by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) in accordance with framework procedures for adjusting management measures of the Fishery Management Plan for the Golden Crab Fishery of the South Atlantic Region (FMP). For the golden crab fishery in the South Atlantic exclusive economic zone (EEZ), the regulatory amendment revises the vessel size limitations applicable when a vessel permit is transferred to another vessel and extends through December 31, 2000, the authorization to use wire cable for a mainline attached to a golden crab trap. In addition, NMFS is removing from the regulations the eligibility criteria and procedures for obtaining initial commercial vessel permits in the South Atlantic golden crab fishery. Such criteria and procedures are no longer applicable. NMFS is also revising the list of control numbers applicable to Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations to reflect removal of the eligibility criteria and procedures for obtaining initial commercial vessel permits for this fishery. The intended effects of this rule are to allow for additional evaluation of cable used as mainlines for traps, to provide greater flexibility for fishermen to fish with vessels of different lengths without adversely affecting the FMP's cap on fishing effort, and to simplify the regulations. DATES: This rule is effective October 28, 1998.