Billfish tournaments could see major changes starting in 2007. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has released its new “Draft Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan.” The plan includes changes in regulations for recreational billfish anglers.

Proposed regs would “implement ICCAT’s 250 blue marlin landings limit, prohibit white marlin landings for five years starting in 2007 and limit billfish tournaments

to the use of non-offset circle hooks with natural bait and natural bait/artificial lure combinations.” J-hooks would be allowed for artificial lures.

The public has until October 18 to comment on proposed measures. Click http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hms/Amendment2/Fax%20Notice%20FMP%208-11-05.pdf for public hearing times and dates and to scan the full NMFS proposal.