Atlantic Bluefin Tuna General Category (Commercial) Fishery Closed
The Atlantic Bluefin Tuna General Category Commercial Fishery is closed since the quota has been reached and exceeded.
Based on the best available landings information, the adjusted 58.2-mt quota for the January through March time period has been reached and exceeded. Therefore, the fishery will be closed from February 14, 2023, 11:30 pm – March 31, 2023.
PERMITS AFFECTED: Atlantic Tunas General category permitted vessels and HMS Charter/Headboat permitted vessels with a commercial sale endorsement when fishing commercially for bluefin tuna.
Commercial fishermen aboard vessels with an Atlantic Tunas General category or HMS Charter/Headboat permit may NOT retain, possess, or land large medium, or giant Atlantic bluefin tuna from 11:30 p.m. February 14, 2023, through March 31, 2023.
RECREATIONAL: Not affected by this closure.
As always, Atlantic Tunas General, Harpoon, and HMS Charter/Headboat category vessel owners are required to report all bluefin tuna retained or discarded dead within 24 hours of the landing(s) or end of each trip by:
- Accessing the HMS Permit Shop.
- Using the HMS Catch Reporting app.
- Calling 888-872-8862 (Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.).
