NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) 2004 annual Report to Congress verifies what anglers already knew—removing commercial nets from Gulf waters has allowed the recovery of redfish and kingfish once netted to the brink of annihilation. According to the report, Gulf king mackerel and red drum are officially no longer overfished.

The news wasn’t all upbeat. Large coastal sharks and Gulf of Mexico greater amberjack remain on the overfished list.

Of previously assessed stocks in all U.S. waters, the report states one stock has been rebuilt, six are no longer overfished, and three are no longer subject to overfishing. However, five stocks are now subject to overfishing and three are overfished.

“This year’s report shows progress for some stocks but also signals we have our work cut out for us,” said Bill Hogarth, NMFS director.

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