Regulation changes for greater amberjack and gray triggerfish in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico are effective August 4th. The most recent stock assessments for these species indicate that there is excessive fishing pressure and that reductions in harvest are needed. The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council adopted these regulation changes in early 2008. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will discuss consistency rules for state waters of the Gulf at their September 2008 meeting.

Greater Amberjack

Increase the recreational minimum size limit to 30 inches fork length
Zero bag limit for captain/crew of for-hire vessels
Sets annual catch limits - allows for in-season adjustments if go over
- possible seasonal closure if exceed ACL
Quotas set: 0.503 mp for commercial, 1.386 mp for recreational

Grey Triggerfish Gray Triggerfish

Increase recreational and commercial minimum size to 14 inches fork length
Sets annual catch limits - allows for in-season adjustments if go over
- possible seasonal closure if exceed ACL
Commercial quota set at 80,000 pounds in 2008, increasing in 2009 and 2010

Links for more information:

Grouper-Vermilion Background Report June 2008
SE Fishery Bulletin - Final Rule

Also, see www.gulfcouncil.org and www.sero.nmfs.noaa.gov

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