December 11, 2018
By Florida Sportsman Editor
Press Release: NOAA Fisheries
Recreational Closure for Red Grouper in South Atlantic Federal Waters on December 12, 2018
WHAT/WHEN:
The recreational harvest of red grouper in South Atlantic federal waters will close at 12:01 a.m., local time, December 12, 2018.
Recreational harvest will open at 12:01 a.m. (local time) on May 1, 2019.
WHY THIS CLOSURE IS HAPPENING:
The 2018 recreational catch limit is 77,840 pounds whole weight.
Recreational landings have exceeded the recreational catch limit; therefore, recreational harvest must close.
DURING THE CLOSURE:
During the recreational closure, the bag and possession limits of red grouper in or from federal waters are zero.
The prohibition on harvest or possession of red grouper applies in both state and federal waters for vessels that have a federal charter vessel/headboat permit for South Atlantic snapper-grouper.
This bulletin provides only a summary of the existing regulations. Full regulations can be found in the Federal Register or the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations.
