NMFS adjusts Atlantic bluefin tuna daily retention limits for recreational fishermen
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced increases to all Fishing Categories and has now defined what those limitations are for the Angling Category. Several months prior, TBF requested the NMFS increase the allocation of Atlantic bluefin tuna to all segments within the Recreational Fishing Category and encouraged with this announcement.
The adjusted limits go into effect on May 6, 2022, and extend through December 31, 2022, unless modified by later action.
What is changing?
| Vessel/Permit Type | Default Retention Limit per Vessel per Day/Trip | Adjusted Retention Limit per Vessel per Day/Trip |
| Private vessels with a Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Angling category permit | 1 school, large school, or small medium (27 to <73”) |
|
| Charter boats with an HMS Charter/Headboat permit fishing recreationally | 1 school, large school, or small medium |
|
| Headboats with an HMS Charter/Headboat permit fishing recreationally | 1 school, large school, or small medium |
|
The Gulf of Mexico Incidental Trophy Size Bluefin Category for anglers remains open at this time.
The trophy bluefin fishery for the southern area is closed.
Stay tuned to the completion of NMFS processing of implementation of the internationally authorized small quota increases, thought to be in June 2022. To stay up to date with all things billfish, become a member, subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us on social media, @TheBillfishFoundation.
