Dolphin
Dolphin
Coryphaena hippurus, dorado, mahi mahiThe dolphin fish has bright turquiose, green and yellow patterns, which fade almost immediately upon death. This species may be distinguished from the pompano dolphin by its 55-66 dorsal fin rays, and a very wide and square tooth patch on the tongue. The body tapers sharply from head to tail; irregular blue or golden blotches scattered over sides; anterior profile of head on adult males is nearly vertical; head of females more sloping; the single dark dorsal fin extends from just behind the head to the tail; anal fin margin concave and extending to tail.
Dolphin are fast growing, prolific and have a short life span – an average of 5 years. Average fork lengths for males and females ranges from 34 to 55 inches. Males grow faster and usually live longer than females. The spawning season varies with latitiude. Dolphin collected in the Florida Current spawned from November through July, and those collected from the Gulf Stream near North Carolina were reproductively active during June and July. Small females may spawn 240 thousand pelagic eggs, and fish larger than 43 inches may spawn several million. Dolphin are attracted to Sargassum, a floating brown algae, which serves as a hiding place and source of food. Other sources of food associated with the Sargassum include small fish, crabs, and shrimp. Dolphin reach swimming speeds estimated at 50 knots and may also pursue fast -swimming fish, such as flying fish or mackerels. Often man made garbage is entangled in the floating Sargassum, and is consumed by dolphin. Plastic wrappers, small light bulbs, rope and string have all been removed from the stomachs of dolphin.
Regulations
NC
- Season is currently open.
- 10 Bag Limit
- 54 Vessel Limit
Notes: Effective May 2nd 2022, the recreational vessel limit for dolphin is 54 fish (excluding headboats). The 10 dolphin per person per day recreational bag limit will remain unchanged for all recreational vessels (private, charter vessels, and headboats). See Fishery Bulletin
Must be landed with head and fins intact. Minimum size limit only applies in waters off Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. If you are bringing fish back to the U.S. from the Bahamas by water, please see Bringing fish back from the Bahamas.
———- Federally Permitted Charter/Headboats:
-If a federally permitted vessel fishing in federal waters catches a species that is closed to harvest in federal waters, the vessel is not allowed to retain that fish.
-If a federally permitted vessel fishing in state waters catches a species that is closed to harvest in federal waters but open in state waters, the vessel is not allowed to retain that species.
-If a federally permitted vessel fishing in federal waters catches a species that is closed to harvest in state waters but open to harvest in federal waters, they may retain that fish if they do not stop to fish in state waters when returning to port. All gear must be stowed.
For more information, see: Dolphin Regulations
SC, GA, FL
- Season is currently open.
- 10 Bag Limit
- 54 Vessel Limit
- Min. Size: 20 in Fork Length
Notes:
Effective May 2nd 2022, the recreational vessel limit for dolphin is 54 fish (excluding headboats). The 10 dolphin per person per day recreational bag limit will remain unchanged for all recreational vessels (private, charter vessels, and headboats). See Fishery Bulletin Must be landed with head and fins intact.
Minimum size limit only applies in waters off Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.
If you are bringing fish back to the U.S. from the Bahamas by water, please see Bringing fish back from the Bahamas.
———-
Federally Permitted Charter/Headboats: -If a federally permitted vessel fishing in federal waters catches a species that is closed to harvest in federal waters, the vessel is not allowed to retain that fish. -If a federally permitted vessel fishing in state waters catches a species that is closed to harvest in federal waters but open in state waters, the vessel is not allowed to retain that species. -If a federally permitted vessel fishing in federal waters catches a species that is closed to harvest in state waters but open to harvest in federal waters, they may retain that fish if they do not stop to fish in state waters when returning to port. All gear must be stowed.
For more information on management of South Atlantic federal fisheries, please visit SAFMC or NOAA Fisheries.
Atlantic Dolphin Wahoo Permit – Atlantic EEZ (FL through SC)
- Season is currently open.
- Min. Size: 20 in Fork Length
- Quota: Commercial ACL- 1719953 lbs Whole Weight
0.1% harvested - Fishing Year: Jan 1 – Dec 31
Areas
Area 51 Spawning SMZ
Area 51 SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:32° 35.250' N 79° 28.600' W32° 35.250' N 79° 27.000' W32° 33.750' N 79° 27.000' W32° 33.750' N 79° 28.600' WFishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs.Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Fishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
Area 53 Spawning SMZ
Area 53 SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:32° 22.650' N 79° 22.250' W32° 22.650' N 79° 20.500' W32° 21.150' N 79° 20.500' W32° 21.150' N 79° 22.250' WFishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs. Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Fishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
Blake Ridge Diapir
In Blake Ridge Diapir no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Cape Fear Lophelia Banks
In Cape Fear Lophelia Banks no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Cape Lookout Lophelia Banks
In Cape Lookout Lophelia Banks no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Charleston Bump
The Charleston Bump Closed Area is that portion of the EEZ off North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia between 34° N. lat. and 31° N. lat. and west of 76° W. long.If pelagic longline gear is on board a vessel, a person aboard such vessel may not fish for or retain a dolphin or wahoo in the Charleston Bump closed area from February 1 through April 30 each year. A vessel is considered to have pelagic longline gear on board when a power-operated longline hauler, a mainline, floats capable of supporting the mainline, and gangions with hooks are on board. Removal of any one of these elements constitutes removal of pelagic longline gear.
Charleston Deep Artificial Reef MPA
Charleston Deep Artificial Reef MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: The northwest corner at 32°9'.65 N, 9.2 W; the northeast corner at 32°7'.155 N, 79°5.595' W; the southwest corner at 32°2.36' N, 79°9'.975 W; and the southeast corner at 32°5.'04 N, 79°13.575' W. Location: 50 nautical miles southeast of Charleston Harbor, SC. Size: 3.5 X 6 nautical miles. No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowedTrolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Devil's Hole Spawning SMZ
Devils Hole SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:32° 34.311' N 78° 34.996' W32° 34.311' N 78° 33.220' W32° 32.748' N 78° 33.220' W32° 32.748' N 78° 34.996' WFishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs.Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Anchoring ProhibitedFishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
East Florida Coast
The East Florida Coast Closed Area is that portion of the EEZ off Georgia and the east coast of Florida from the inner boundary of the EEZ at 31° N. lat.; thence due east to 78° W. long.; thence by a rhumb line to 28°17′ N. lat., 79°12′ W. long.; thence proceeding in a southerly direction along the outer boundary of the EEZ to 24° N. lat.; thence due west to 24° N. lat., 81°47′ W. long.; thence due north to the innermost boundary of the EEZ at 81°47′ W. long.If pelagic longline gear is on board a vessel, a person aboard such vessel may not fish for or retain a dolphin or wahoo in the East Florida Coast closed area year round. A vessel is considered to have pelagic longline gear on board when a power-operated longline hauler, a mainline, floats capable of supporting the mainline, and gangions with hooks are on board. Removal of any one of these elements constitutes removal of pelagic longline gear.
East Hump MPA
East Hump MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 24°36.5'N, 80°45.5'W; the northeast corner at 24°32'N, 80°36'W; the southwest corner at 24°32.5'N, 80°48'W; and the southeast corner at 24°27.5'N, 80°38.5'W. Location: 13 nautical miles southeast of Long Key, FL. Size: 5 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Edisto MPA
Edisto MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: The northwest corner at 32°24'N, 79°6'W; the northeast corner at 32°24'N, 78°54'W; the southwest corner at 32°18.5'N, 79°6'W; and the southeast corner at 32°18.5'N, 78°54'W. Location: 45 nautical miles southeast of Charleston, SC harbor. Size: 10 X 5 nautical miles. No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed. Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Georgia MPA
Georgia MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 31°43'N, 79°31'W; the northeast corner at 31°43'N, 79°21'W; the southwest corner at 31°34'N, 79°39'W; and the southeast corner at 31°34'N, 79°29'W. Location: 69 nautical miles southeast of the mouth of Wassaw Sound, GA. Size: 10 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Snapper Grouper Longline Prohibited Areas
A longline may not be used to fish in the EEZ for South Atlantic snapper-grouper south of 27°10′ N. lat. (due east of the entrance to St. Lucie Inlet, FL); or north of 27°10′ N. lat. where the charted depth is less than 50 fathoms (91.4 m), as shown on the latest edition of the largest scale NOAA chart of the location.A person aboard a vessel with a longline on board that fishes on a trip in the South Atlantic EEZ south of 27°10′ N. lat., or north of 27°10′ N. lat. where the charted depth is less than 50 fathoms (91.4 m), is limited on that trip to the bag limit for South Atlantic snapper-grouper for which a bag limit is specified, and to zero for all other South Atlantic snapper-grouper.A vessel is considered to have a longline on board when a power-operated longline hauler, a cable or monofilament of diameter and length suitable for use in the longline fishery, and gangions are on board. Removal of any one of these three elements constitutes removal of a longline.
North FL MPA
North Florida MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 30°29'N, 80°14'W; the northeast corner at 30°29'N, 80°2' W; the southwest corner at 30°19'N, 80°14'W; and the southeast corner at 30°19'N, 80°2'W. Location: 60 nautical miles off the mouth of the St. John's River near Jacksonville, FL. Size: 10 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Northern SC MPA
Northern SC MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 32°53.5'N, 9 78°16.75'W; the northeast corner at 32°53.5'N, 78°4.75'W; the southwest corner at 32°48.5'N, 78°16.75'W; and the southeast corner at 32°48.5'N, 78°4.75'W. Location: Approximately 54 nautical miles from Murrells Inlet, SC. Size: Approximately 10 X 5 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Oculina Bank Habitat Area of Particular Concern
In the Oculina Bank HAPC, no person may:Use a bottom longline, bottom trawl, dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for or possess rock shrimp in or from the Oculina Bank HAPC, except a shrimp vessel with a valid commercial vessel permit for rock shrimp that possesses rock shrimp may transit through the Oculina Bank HAPC if fishing gear is appropriately stowed. For the purpose of this paragraph, transit means a direct and non-stop continuous course through the area, maintaining a minimum speed of five knots as determined by an operating VMS and a VMS minimum ping rate of 1 ping per 5 minutes; fishing gear appropriately stowed means that doors and nets are out of the water.
Pourtales Terrace
No person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 1
Shrimp Access Area 1 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin30°06′30″ 80°02′2.4″; A 30°06′30″ 80°05′39.6″; B 30°03′00″ 80°09′30″; C 30°03′00″ 80°06′00″; D 30°04′00″80°02′45.6″; E 29°59′16″ 80°04′11″; F 29°49′12″ 80°05′44″; G 29°43′59″ 80°06′24″; H 29°38′37″ 80°06′53″; I 29°36′54″ 80°07′18″; J 29°31′59″80°07′32″; K 29°29′14″ 80°07′18″; L 29°21′48″ 80°05′01″; M 29°20′25″ 80°04′29″; N 29°20′25″ 80°03′11″; O 29°21′48″ 80°03′52″; P 29°29′14″ 80°06′08″; Q 29°31′59″ 80°06′23″; R 29°36′54″ 80°06′00″; S 29°38′37″ 80°05′43″; T 29°43′59″ 80°05′14″; U 29°49′12″ 80°04′35″; V 29°59′16″ 80°03′01″; W 30°06′30″ 80°00′53″; Origin 30°06′30″ 80°02′2.4″Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 2
Shrimp Access Area 2 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 29°08′00″ 79°59′43″; A 29°06′56″ 79°59′07″; B 29°05′59″ 79°58′44″; C 29°03′34″ 79°57′37″; D 29°02′11″ 79°56′59″; E 29°00′00″ 79°55′32″; F 28°56′55″ 79°54′22″; G 28°55′00″79°53′31″; H 28°53′35″ 79°52′51″; I 28°51′47″79°52′07″; J 28°50′25″ 79°51′27″; K 28°49′53″ 79°51′20″; L 28°49′01″ 79°51′20″; M 28°48′19″ 79°51′10″; N 28°47′13″ 79°50′59″; O 28°43′30″ 79°50′36″; P 28°41′05″ 79°50′04″; Q 28°40′27″ 79°50′07″; R 28°39′50″ 79°49′56″; S 28°39′04″79°49′58″; T 28°36′43″ 79°49′35″; U 28°35′01″ 79°49′24″; V 28°30′37″ 79°48′35″; W 28°30′37″ 79°47′27″; X 28°35′01″ 79°48′16″; Y 28°36′43″ 79°48′27″; Z 28°39′04″ 79°48′50″; AA 28°39′50″ 79°48′48″; AB 28°40′27″ 79°48′58″; AC 28°41′05″ 79°48′56″; AD 28°43′30″ 79°49′28″; AE 28°47′13″ 79°49′51″; AF 28°48′19″ 79°50′01″; AG 28°49′01″ 79°50′13″; AH 28°49′53″ 79°50′12″; AI 28°50′25″ 79°50′17″; AJ 28°51′47″ 79°50′58″; AK 28°53′35″ 79°51′43″; AL 28°55′00″ 79°52′22″; AM 28°56′55″ 79°53′14″; AN 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″; AO 29°02′11″ 79°55′50″; AP 29°03′34″ 79°56′29″; AQ 29°05′59″ 79°57′35″; AR 29°06′56″ 79°57′59″; AS 29°08′00″ 79°58′34″; Origin 29°08′00″ 79°59′43″.Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 3
Shrimp Access Area 3 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 28°14′00″ 79°46′20″; A 28°11′41″ 79°46′12″; B 28°08′02″ 79°45′45″; C 28°01′20″ 79°45′20″; D 27°58′13″ 79°44′51″; E 27°56′23″ 79°44′53″; F 27°49′40″ 79°44′25″; G 27°46′27″ 79°44′22″; H 27°42′00″ 79°44′33″; I 27°36′08″ 79°44′58″; J 27°30′00″ 79°45′29″; K 27°29′04″ 79°45′47″; L 27°27′05″ 79°45′54″; M 27°25′47″ 79°45′57″; N 27°19′46″ 79°45′14″; O 27°17′54″ 79°45′12″; P 27°12′28″ 79°45′00″; Q 27°07′45″ 79°46′07″; R 27°04′47″ 79°46′29″; S 27°00′43″ 79°46′39″; T 26°58′43″ 79°46′28″; U 26°57′06″ 79°46′32″; V 26°57′06″ 79°44′52″; W 26°58′43″ 79°44′47″; X 27°00′43″ 79°44′58″; Y 27°04′47″ 79°44′48″; Z 27°07′45″ 79°44′26″; AA 27°12′28″ 79°43′19″; AB 27°17′54″ 79°43′31″; AC 27°19′46″ 79°43′33″; AD 27°25′47″ 79°44′15″; AE 27°27′05″ 79°44′12″; AF 27°29′04″ 79°44′06″; AG 27°30′00″ 79°43′48″; AH 27°30′00″ 79°44′22″; AI 27°36′08″ 79°43′50″; AJ 27°42′00″ 79°43′25″; AK 27°46′27″ 79°43′14″; AL 27°49′40″ 79°43′17″; AM 27°56′23″ 79°43′45″; AN 27°58′13″ 79°43′43″; AO 28°01′20″ 79°44′11″; AP 28°04′42″ 79°44′25″; AQ 28°08′02″ 79°44′37″; AR 28°11′41″ 79°45′04″; AS 28°14′00″ 79°45′12″; Origin 28°14′00″ 79°46′20″.Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 4
Shrimp Access Area 4 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 26°49′58″ 79°46′54″; A 26°48′58″ 79°46′56″; B 26°47′01″ 79°47′09″; C 26°46′04″ 79°47′09″; D 26°35′09″ 79°48′01″; E 26°33′37″ 79°48′21″; F 26°27′56″ 79°49′09″; G 26°25′55″ 79°49′30″; H 26°21′05″ 79°50′03″; I 26°20′30″ 79°50′20″; J 26°18′56″ 79°50′17″; K 26°18′56″ 79°48′37″; L 26°20′30″ 79°48′40″; M 26°21′05″ 79°48′08″; N 26°25′55″ 79°47′49″; O 26°27′56″ 79°47′29″; P 26°33′37″ 79°46′40″; Q 26°35′09″ 79°46′20″; R 26°46′04″ 79°45′28″; S 26°47′01″ 79°45′28″; T 26°48′58″ 79°45′15″; U 26°49′58″ 79°45′13″; Origin 26°49′58″ 79°46′54″.Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Snowy Grouper Wreck
Snowy Grouper Wreck MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 33°25'N, 77°4.75'W; northeast corner at 33°34.75'N, 76°51.3'W; southwest corner at 33°15.75'N, 77°W; and the southeast corner at 33°25.5'N, 76°46.5'W. Location: Approximately 55 nautical miles southeast of Southport, NC. Size: Approximately 15 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
South Cape Lookout Spawning SMZ
South Cape Lookout SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: 33° 53.040' 76° 28.617'; 33° 52.019' 76° 27.798'; 33° 49.946' 76° 30.627'; 33° 51.041' 76° 31.424'.Fishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs.Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Anchoring ProhibitedFishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
St Lucie Hump
St. Lucie Hump MPA is bounded on the north by 27°08′ N. lat.; on the south by 27°04′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°58′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°00′ W. long. Location: 9 nautical miles southeast of St. Lucie Inlet, FL. Size: 4 X 2 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels may transit through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed. Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPA.
Stetson-Miami Terrace
No person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Warsaw Hole SMZ
Warsaw Hole SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: 24° 22.277' 82° 20.417'; 24° 22.277' 82° 18.215'; 24° 20.932' 82° 18.215' 24° 20.932' 82° 20.417'.Fishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs. Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Anchoring prohibited.Fishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
Y 73 Reef
Y-73 Reef is bounded on the north by 32°33.20′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°32.70′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°19.10′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°19.70′ W. long.Fishing may only be conducted with handline, rod and reel, and spearfishing gear.Use of a sea bass pot or bottom longline is prohibited. Use of a powerhead to take South Atlantic snapper-grouper is prohibited. Possession of a powerhead and a mutilated South Atlantic snapper-grouper in, or after having fished in, this SMZ constitutes evidence that such fish was taken with a powerhead in the SMZ.Harvest and possession of a South Atlantic snapper-grouper is limited to the bag-limits specified §622.187(b).All harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Atlantic Dolphin Wahoo Permit – Atlantic EEZ (NC through ME)
- Season is currently open.
- Quota: Commercial ACL- 1719953 lbs Whole Weight
0.1% harvested - Fishing Year: Jan 1 – Dec 31
Areas
Area 51 Spawning SMZ
Area 51 SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:32° 35.250' N 79° 28.600' W32° 35.250' N 79° 27.000' W32° 33.750' N 79° 27.000' W32° 33.750' N 79° 28.600' WFishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs.Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Fishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
Area 53 Spawning SMZ
Area 53 SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:32° 22.650' N 79° 22.250' W32° 22.650' N 79° 20.500' W32° 21.150' N 79° 20.500' W32° 21.150' N 79° 22.250' WFishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs. Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Fishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
Blake Ridge Diapir
In Blake Ridge Diapir no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Cape Fear Lophelia Banks
In Cape Fear Lophelia Banks no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Cape Lookout Lophelia Banks
In Cape Lookout Lophelia Banks no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Charleston Bump
The Charleston Bump Closed Area is that portion of the EEZ off North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia between 34° N. lat. and 31° N. lat. and west of 76° W. long.If pelagic longline gear is on board a vessel, a person aboard such vessel may not fish for or retain a dolphin or wahoo in the Charleston Bump closed area from February 1 through April 30 each year. A vessel is considered to have pelagic longline gear on board when a power-operated longline hauler, a mainline, floats capable of supporting the mainline, and gangions with hooks are on board. Removal of any one of these elements constitutes removal of pelagic longline gear.
Charleston Deep Artificial Reef MPA
Charleston Deep Artificial Reef MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: The northwest corner at 32°9'.65 N, 9.2 W; the northeast corner at 32°7'.155 N, 79°5.595' W; the southwest corner at 32°2.36' N, 79°9'.975 W; and the southeast corner at 32°5.'04 N, 79°13.575' W. Location: 50 nautical miles southeast of Charleston Harbor, SC. Size: 3.5 X 6 nautical miles. No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowedTrolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Devil's Hole Spawning SMZ
Devils Hole SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:32° 34.311' N 78° 34.996' W32° 34.311' N 78° 33.220' W32° 32.748' N 78° 33.220' W32° 32.748' N 78° 34.996' WFishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs.Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Anchoring ProhibitedFishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
East Florida Coast
The East Florida Coast Closed Area is that portion of the EEZ off Georgia and the east coast of Florida from the inner boundary of the EEZ at 31° N. lat.; thence due east to 78° W. long.; thence by a rhumb line to 28°17′ N. lat., 79°12′ W. long.; thence proceeding in a southerly direction along the outer boundary of the EEZ to 24° N. lat.; thence due west to 24° N. lat., 81°47′ W. long.; thence due north to the innermost boundary of the EEZ at 81°47′ W. long.If pelagic longline gear is on board a vessel, a person aboard such vessel may not fish for or retain a dolphin or wahoo in the East Florida Coast closed area year round. A vessel is considered to have pelagic longline gear on board when a power-operated longline hauler, a mainline, floats capable of supporting the mainline, and gangions with hooks are on board. Removal of any one of these elements constitutes removal of pelagic longline gear.
East Hump MPA
East Hump MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 24°36.5'N, 80°45.5'W; the northeast corner at 24°32'N, 80°36'W; the southwest corner at 24°32.5'N, 80°48'W; and the southeast corner at 24°27.5'N, 80°38.5'W. Location: 13 nautical miles southeast of Long Key, FL. Size: 5 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Edisto MPA
Edisto MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: The northwest corner at 32°24'N, 79°6'W; the northeast corner at 32°24'N, 78°54'W; the southwest corner at 32°18.5'N, 79°6'W; and the southeast corner at 32°18.5'N, 78°54'W. Location: 45 nautical miles southeast of Charleston, SC harbor. Size: 10 X 5 nautical miles. No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed. Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Georgia MPA
Georgia MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 31°43'N, 79°31'W; the northeast corner at 31°43'N, 79°21'W; the southwest corner at 31°34'N, 79°39'W; and the southeast corner at 31°34'N, 79°29'W. Location: 69 nautical miles southeast of the mouth of Wassaw Sound, GA. Size: 10 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species. No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Snapper Grouper Longline Prohibited Areas
A longline may not be used to fish in the EEZ for South Atlantic snapper-grouper south of 27°10′ N. lat. (due east of the entrance to St. Lucie Inlet, FL); or north of 27°10′ N. lat. where the charted depth is less than 50 fathoms (91.4 m), as shown on the latest edition of the largest scale NOAA chart of the location.A person aboard a vessel with a longline on board that fishes on a trip in the South Atlantic EEZ south of 27°10′ N. lat., or north of 27°10′ N. lat. where the charted depth is less than 50 fathoms (91.4 m), is limited on that trip to the bag limit for South Atlantic snapper-grouper for which a bag limit is specified, and to zero for all other South Atlantic snapper-grouper.A vessel is considered to have a longline on board when a power-operated longline hauler, a cable or monofilament of diameter and length suitable for use in the longline fishery, and gangions are on board. Removal of any one of these three elements constitutes removal of a longline.
North FL MPA
North Florida MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 30°29'N, 80°14'W; the northeast corner at 30°29'N, 80°2' W; the southwest corner at 30°19'N, 80°14'W; and the southeast corner at 30°19'N, 80°2'W. Location: 60 nautical miles off the mouth of the St. John's River near Jacksonville, FL. Size: 10 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed. Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Northern SC MPA
Northern SC MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 32°53.5'N, 9 78°16.75'W; the northeast corner at 32°53.5'N, 78°4.75'W; the southwest corner at 32°48.5'N, 78°16.75'W; and the southeast corner at 32°48.5'N, 78°4.75'W. Location: Approximately 54 nautical miles from Murrells Inlet, SC. Size: Approximately 10 X 5 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
Oculina Bank Habitat Area of Particular Concern
In the Oculina Bank HAPC, no person may:Use a bottom longline, bottom trawl, dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for or possess rock shrimp in or from the Oculina Bank HAPC, except a shrimp vessel with a valid commercial vessel permit for rock shrimp that possesses rock shrimp may transit through the Oculina Bank HAPC if fishing gear is appropriately stowed. For the purpose of this paragraph, transit means a direct and non-stop continuous course through the area, maintaining a minimum speed of five knots as determined by an operating VMS and a VMS minimum ping rate of 1 ping per 5 minutes; fishing gear appropriately stowed means that doors and nets are out of the water.
Pourtales Terrace
No person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 1
Shrimp Access Area 1 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin30°06′30″ 80°02′2.4″; A 30°06′30″ 80°05′39.6″; B 30°03′00″ 80°09′30″; C 30°03′00″ 80°06′00″; D 30°04′00″80°02′45.6″; E 29°59′16″ 80°04′11″; F 29°49′12″ 80°05′44″; G 29°43′59″ 80°06′24″; H 29°38′37″ 80°06′53″; I 29°36′54″ 80°07′18″; J 29°31′59″80°07′32″; K 29°29′14″ 80°07′18″; L 29°21′48″ 80°05′01″; M 29°20′25″ 80°04′29″; N 29°20′25″ 80°03′11″; O 29°21′48″ 80°03′52″; P 29°29′14″ 80°06′08″; Q 29°31′59″ 80°06′23″; R 29°36′54″ 80°06′00″; S 29°38′37″ 80°05′43″; T 29°43′59″ 80°05′14″; U 29°49′12″ 80°04′35″; V 29°59′16″ 80°03′01″; W 30°06′30″ 80°00′53″; Origin 30°06′30″ 80°02′2.4″Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 2
Shrimp Access Area 2 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 29°08′00″ 79°59′43″; A 29°06′56″ 79°59′07″; B 29°05′59″ 79°58′44″; C 29°03′34″ 79°57′37″; D 29°02′11″ 79°56′59″; E 29°00′00″ 79°55′32″; F 28°56′55″ 79°54′22″; G 28°55′00″79°53′31″; H 28°53′35″ 79°52′51″; I 28°51′47″79°52′07″; J 28°50′25″ 79°51′27″; K 28°49′53″ 79°51′20″; L 28°49′01″ 79°51′20″; M 28°48′19″ 79°51′10″; N 28°47′13″ 79°50′59″; O 28°43′30″ 79°50′36″; P 28°41′05″ 79°50′04″; Q 28°40′27″ 79°50′07″; R 28°39′50″ 79°49′56″; S 28°39′04″79°49′58″; T 28°36′43″ 79°49′35″; U 28°35′01″ 79°49′24″; V 28°30′37″ 79°48′35″; W 28°30′37″ 79°47′27″; X 28°35′01″ 79°48′16″; Y 28°36′43″ 79°48′27″; Z 28°39′04″ 79°48′50″; AA 28°39′50″ 79°48′48″; AB 28°40′27″ 79°48′58″; AC 28°41′05″ 79°48′56″; AD 28°43′30″ 79°49′28″; AE 28°47′13″ 79°49′51″; AF 28°48′19″ 79°50′01″; AG 28°49′01″ 79°50′13″; AH 28°49′53″ 79°50′12″; AI 28°50′25″ 79°50′17″; AJ 28°51′47″ 79°50′58″; AK 28°53′35″ 79°51′43″; AL 28°55′00″ 79°52′22″; AM 28°56′55″ 79°53′14″; AN 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″; AO 29°02′11″ 79°55′50″; AP 29°03′34″ 79°56′29″; AQ 29°05′59″ 79°57′35″; AR 29°06′56″ 79°57′59″; AS 29°08′00″ 79°58′34″; Origin 29°08′00″ 79°59′43″.Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 3
Shrimp Access Area 3 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 28°14′00″ 79°46′20″; A 28°11′41″ 79°46′12″; B 28°08′02″ 79°45′45″; C 28°01′20″ 79°45′20″; D 27°58′13″ 79°44′51″; E 27°56′23″ 79°44′53″; F 27°49′40″ 79°44′25″; G 27°46′27″ 79°44′22″; H 27°42′00″ 79°44′33″; I 27°36′08″ 79°44′58″; J 27°30′00″ 79°45′29″; K 27°29′04″ 79°45′47″; L 27°27′05″ 79°45′54″; M 27°25′47″ 79°45′57″; N 27°19′46″ 79°45′14″; O 27°17′54″ 79°45′12″; P 27°12′28″ 79°45′00″; Q 27°07′45″ 79°46′07″; R 27°04′47″ 79°46′29″; S 27°00′43″ 79°46′39″; T 26°58′43″ 79°46′28″; U 26°57′06″ 79°46′32″; V 26°57′06″ 79°44′52″; W 26°58′43″ 79°44′47″; X 27°00′43″ 79°44′58″; Y 27°04′47″ 79°44′48″; Z 27°07′45″ 79°44′26″; AA 27°12′28″ 79°43′19″; AB 27°17′54″ 79°43′31″; AC 27°19′46″ 79°43′33″; AD 27°25′47″ 79°44′15″; AE 27°27′05″ 79°44′12″; AF 27°29′04″ 79°44′06″; AG 27°30′00″ 79°43′48″; AH 27°30′00″ 79°44′22″; AI 27°36′08″ 79°43′50″; AJ 27°42′00″ 79°43′25″; AK 27°46′27″ 79°43′14″; AL 27°49′40″ 79°43′17″; AM 27°56′23″ 79°43′45″; AN 27°58′13″ 79°43′43″; AO 28°01′20″ 79°44′11″; AP 28°04′42″ 79°44′25″; AQ 28°08′02″ 79°44′37″; AR 28°11′41″ 79°45′04″; AS 28°14′00″ 79°45′12″; Origin 28°14′00″ 79°46′20″.Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Shrimp Access Area 4
Shrimp Access Area 4 is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 26°49′58″ 79°46′54″; A 26°48′58″ 79°46′56″; B 26°47′01″ 79°47′09″; C 26°46′04″ 79°47′09″; D 26°35′09″ 79°48′01″; E 26°33′37″ 79°48′21″; F 26°27′56″ 79°49′09″; G 26°25′55″ 79°49′30″; H 26°21′05″ 79°50′03″; I 26°20′30″ 79°50′20″; J 26°18′56″ 79°50′17″; K 26°18′56″ 79°48′37″; L 26°20′30″ 79°48′40″; M 26°21′05″ 79°48′08″; N 26°25′55″ 79°47′49″; O 26°27′56″ 79°47′29″; P 26°33′37″ 79°46′40″; Q 26°35′09″ 79°46′20″; R 26°46′04″ 79°45′28″; S 26°47′01″ 79°45′28″; T 26°48′58″ 79°45′15″; U 26°49′58″ 79°45′13″; Origin 26°49′58″ 79°46′54″.Within the Shrimp Fishery Access Areas in the Stetson-Miami Terrace CHAPC fishing with a shrimp trawl and/or shrimp possession is allowed by any vessel holding a rock shrimp limited access endorsement and equipped with an approved vessel monitoring system (VMS). Otherwise no person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Snowy Grouper Wreck
Snowy Grouper Wreck MPA is bounded by the following coordinates: Northwest corner at 33°25'N, 77°4.75'W; northeast corner at 33°34.75'N, 76°51.3'W; southwest corner at 33°15.75'N, 77°W; and the southeast corner at 33°25.5'N, 76°46.5'W. Location: Approximately 55 nautical miles southeast of Southport, NC. Size: Approximately 15 X 10 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels (both commercial and recreational) may transit (direct, non-stop progression) through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed.Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPAs.
South Cape Lookout Spawning SMZ
South Cape Lookout SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: 33° 53.040' 76° 28.617'; 33° 52.019' 76° 27.798'; 33° 49.946' 76° 30.627'; 33° 51.041' 76° 31.424'.Fishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs.Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Anchoring ProhibitedFishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
St Lucie Hump
St. Lucie Hump MPA is bounded on the north by 27°08′ N. lat.; on the south by 27°04′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°58′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°00′ W. long. Location: 9 nautical miles southeast of St. Lucie Inlet, FL. Size: 4 X 2 nautical miles.No fishing for or possession of any snapper grouper species.No shark bottom longline gear allowed.Vessels may transit through the MPAs with snapper grouper species onboard with fishing gear appropriately stowed. Trolling for pelagic species such as tuna, dolphin, mackerel and billfish is allowed within the MPA.
Stetson-Miami Terrace
No person may:Use a bottom longline, trawl (mid-water or bottom), dredge, pot, or trap.If aboard a fishing vessel, anchor, use an anchor and chain, or use a grapple and chain.Fish for coral or possess coral in or from the Deepwater Coral HAPC on board a fishing vessel.
Warsaw Hole SMZ
Warsaw Hole SMZ is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: 24° 22.277' 82° 20.417'; 24° 22.277' 82° 18.215'; 24° 20.932' 82° 18.215' 24° 20.932' 82° 20.417'.Fishing for, possession, and retention of snapper grouper species is prohibited in the Spawning SMZs. Harvest and possession of other species, such as dolphin, mackerel, and tuna, would be allowed as other regulations dictate.Anchoring prohibited.Fishermen are allowed to transit with snapper grouper species onboard their vessel if their fishing gear is stowed according to regulations. Properly stowed means:Terminal gear (i.e., hook, leader, sinker, flasher, or bait) must be disconnected and stowed separately from automatic reel, bandit gear, buoy gear, hand-line, or rod and reel. Rod and reel must be removed from the rod holder and stowed securely on or below deck.Longline may be left on the drum if all gangions and hooks are disconnected and stowed below deck. Hooks cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear: however, buoys can remain on deck.A trawl or try net may remain on deck, but trawl doors must be disconnected from the net and must be secured. Note: This regulation may vary among protected areas and habitat areas of particular concern.A gill net, stab net, or trammel net must be left on the drum. Any additional such nets not attached to the drum must be stowed below deck.A crustacean trap, golden crab trap, or sea bass pot cannot be baited. All buoys must be disconnected from the gear; however, buoys can remain on deck.
Y 73 Reef
Y-73 Reef is bounded on the north by 32°33.20′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°32.70′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°19.10′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°19.70′ W. long.Fishing may only be conducted with handline, rod and reel, and spearfishing gear.Use of a sea bass pot or bottom longline is prohibited. Use of a powerhead to take South Atlantic snapper-grouper is prohibited. Possession of a powerhead and a mutilated South Atlantic snapper-grouper in, or after having fished in, this SMZ constitutes evidence that such fish was taken with a powerhead in the SMZ.Harvest and possession of a South Atlantic snapper-grouper is limited to the bag-limits specified §622.187(b).All harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Recent news
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Amendments in progress
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Comprehensive Commercial Electronic Logbook Amendment
Included in the Joint Commercial Electronic Logbook Reporting Amendment. Modifies reporting requirements for commercial logbooks in the snapper grouper, coastal migratory pelagics (mackerel and cobia) , and dolphin wahoo fisheries.
Secretarial review -
Dolphin Wahoo Regulatory Amendment 3
Includes actions that would increase the applicable geographic range of the 20” FL minimum size limit for dolphin, modify bag and vessel limits for dolphin, and reduce or remove captain and crew bag limits of dolphin.
Public hearing