April 27, 2016 — NOAA Fisheries Announces Modifications to Gag and Black Grouper Recreational Management Measures in the Gulf of Mexico
Small Entity Compliance Guide
NOAA Fisheries has published a final rule changing gag and black grouper recreational management measures in the Gulf of Mexico. These changes include:
- An increase in the gag recreational minimum size limit from 22 inches total length to 24 inches total length.
- An increase in the black grouper recreational minimum size limit from 22 inches total length to 24 inches total length.
- A lengthening of the gag recreational fishing season from July 1 – December 2, to June 1 – December 31.
Need for Action:
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council has chosen to increase the recreational minimum size limits for gag and black grouper from 22 inches total length to 24 inches total length. This increase is expected to provide more opportunity for gag and black grouper to mature before entering the fishery, and creates consistent recreational size regulations with those developed by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council and State of Florida for gag and black grouper.