August 1, 2017 — The following was released by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council:
WHAT/WHEN:
- The commercial harvest of the Other Jacks Complex (almaco jack, banded rudderfish, and lesser amberjack) in federal waters of the South Atlantic will close at 12:01 a.m. on August 4, 2017. During the commercial closure, all sale or purchase of species in this complex is prohibited, and harvest or possession of species in the Other Jacks Complex in or from federal waters is limited to the recreational bag and possession limits while the recreational fishery is open.
WHY IS THIS CLOSURE HAPPENING:
- The 2017 commercial catch limit is 189,422 pounds whole weight. Commercial landings are projected to reach the commercial catch limit by August 4, 2017. According to the accountability measure, harvest should close to prevent the catch limit from being exceeded. This closure date will provide sufficient notice to fishermen to make preparations for the closure, while minimizing the chance that harvest will exceed the commercial catch limit.
AFTER THE CLOSURE:
- The closure applies in both state and federal waters for vessels that have a federal commercial permit for South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper.
The 2018 commercial fishing season for the Other Jacks Complex in the South Atlantic will open on January 1, 2018, with a commercial catch limit of 189,422 pounds whole weight.