December 30, 2015 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
NOAA Fisheries announces the 2016-2018 regulations for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass.
The summer flounder catch limit is reduced by 30 percent (from 23 million lbs to 16 million lbs) due to 4 years of below average recruitment (young fish entering the fishery). The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council has requested a stock assessment update for next year.
The scup catch limit is slightly reduced compared to 2015 levels, but is still well above recent catch.
The black sea bass catch limit will increase from 5.5 million lbs to 6.67 million lbs for 2016 and 2017. This is based on the revised recommendation of the Mid-Atlantic Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. The 2018 regulations will be determined after the next scheduled stock assessment.
To get all the details on these proposed regulations, read the rule as published in the Federal Register today and the permit holder bulletin posted on our website.
Questions? Contact Moira Kelly at 978-281-9218 or moira.kelly@noaa.gov.