Recreational Closure of Gray Triggerfish in Federal Waters of the Gulf of Mexico
WHAT/WHEN/WHERE:
Recreational harvest of gray triggerfish in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) will close at 12:01 am, local time, on May 2, 2020.
The 2021 recreational fishing year begins January 1, 2021. Recreational harvest will reopen March 1, 2021, following the January and February annual closure.
WHY THE GRAY TRIGGERFISH CLOSURE IS HAPPENING:
The 2020 recreational annual catch target is 217,100 pounds whole weight. Projections indicate that recreational landings of gray triggerfish will be met as of May 2, 2020.
In accordance with the regulations, NOAA Fisheries must close harvest when the annual catch target has been or is projected to be met. These closures are needed to prevent overfishing of gray triggerfish (annual catch rate is too high).
DURING THE CLOSURE:
During the recreational closure, the bag and possession limit are zero for gray triggerfish in or from federal waters of the Gulf.
The prohibition on possession of Gulf gray triggerfish also applies in Gulf state waters for a vessel issued a valid federal charter vessel/headboat permit for Gulf reef fish.
TOTAL BS!