NOAA: Catch and release only through remainder of year for blue and white marlin, roundscale spearfish

Published 8:41 am Tuesday, September 15, 2020

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NOAA Fisheries has announced that, based on the best available landings information, it has determined that the Atlantic blue marlin, white marlin and roundscale spearfish 250-landings limit has been met and exceeded for 2020. Under applicable regulations, only catch-and-release fishing is permitted for these species for the rest of the year.

From September 30, 2020, through December 31, 2020, NOAA Fisheries is requiring catch-and-release fishing only for Atlantic blue marlin, white marlin and roundscale spearfish in all areas of the Atlantic Ocean.

HMS Angling and HMS Charter/Headboat category permit holders and persons aboard vessels permitted in the Atlantic tunas General category or Swordfish General Commercial that fish in registered Atlantic HMS tournaments may catch-and-release (or tag and release) Atlantic blue marlin, white marlin and roundscale spearfish of all sizes.

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Atlantic sailfish may continue to be landed (retained) consistent with applicable regulations.

NOAA reminded anglers that Atlantic billfish that are released must be handled in a manner that will maximize survival and without removing the fish from the water.

For additional information on safe handling, view the “Careful Catch-and-Release” brochure here.

READ MORE IN OUR ON THE WATER SECTION HERE.

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