August 24, 2018 — The following was released by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council:
WHAT/WHEN:
Recreational harvest of golden tilefish in South Atlantic federal waters will close at 12:01 a.m. (local time) on August 28, 2018. Recreational harvest in federal waters will reopen at 12:01 a.m. (local time) on January 1, 2019.
WHY THIS CLOSURE IS HAPPENING:
- The 2018 recreational annual catch limit is 2,187 fish. Reports indicate that recreational landings have reached the 2018 annual catch limit for the recreational sector.
- According to the regulations, NOAA Fisheries must close the harvest when the annual catch limit has been reached. This closure is necessary to protect the golden tilefish population.
DURING THE CLOSURE:
- Recreational harvest or possession of golden tilefish in or from the federal waters of the South Atlantic is prohibited.
- The closure applies in both state and federal waters for vessels which have a valid charter/headboat permit for South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper.
- Commercial harvest or possession of golden tilefish in or from federal waters is also prohibited.