Crab, Golden
Crab, Golden
Chaceon fenneriThe golden crab is a large gold or buff colored species whose diagnostic characters include a hexagonal carapace; five anterolateral teeth on each side of carapace; well-developed, large frontal teeth; shallow, rounded orbits; chelipeds unequal; and the dactyli of the walking legs laterally compressed.
Golden crab inhabit the continental slope of Bermuda and the southeastern United States from off Chesapeake Bay south through the Straits of Florida and into the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Reported depth distributions of golden crab range from 205 m off the Dry Tortugas to 1007 m off Bermuda. Size of males examined range from 34 to 139 mm carapace length (CL) and females range from 39 to 118 mm CL. Ovigerous females have been reported during September, October and November, and range in size from 91 to 118 mm CL.
Regulations
NC, SC, GA, FL
- Season is currently closed.
Notes:
Recreational harvest of Golden Crab is prohibited in South Atlantic Federal Waters.
For more information on management of South Atlantic federal fisheries, please visit SAFMC or NOAA Fisheries.
Golden Crab Permit – Northern Zone
- Season is currently open.
- Quota: Stock ACL- 2000000 lbs Whole Weight
0% harvested - Fishing Year: Jan 1 – Dec 31
Notes:
Zone: Northern Zone (South Atlantic EEZ north of 28 degrees N. lat.)
Depth Requirement: In the golden crab northern zone, a golden crab trap may not be deployed in waters less than 900 ft (274 m) deep.
Female Crabs: It is intended that no female golden crabs in or from the South Atlantic EEZ be retained on board a vessel and that any female golden crab in or from the South Atlantic EEZ be released in a manner that will ensure maximum probability of survival. However, to accommodate legitimate incidental catch and retention, the number of female golden crabs in or from the South Atlantic EEZ retained on board a vessel may not exceed 0.5 percent, by number, of all golden crabs on board. See §622.250(a) regarding the prohibition of sale of female golden crabs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
Golden Crab Southern Zone Access Area
Golden Crab Southern Zone Access Area is bounded by Rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 24°14′07″ 80°53′27″; A 24°13′46″ 81°04′54″; B 24°10′55″ 80°58′11″; Origin 24°14′07″ 80°53′27″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Nothern Zone Access Area
Golden Crab Northern Zone Access Area is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″; A 28°56′55″ 79°53′14″; B 28°55′00″ 79°52′22″; C 28°53′35″ 79°51′43″; D 28°51′47″ 79°50′58″; E 28°50′25″ 79°50′17″; F 28°49′53″ 79°50′12″; G 28°49′01″ 79°50′13″; H 28°48′19″ 79°50′01″; I 28°47′13″ 79°49′51″; J 28°43′30″ 79°49′28″; K 28°41′05″ 79°48′56″; L 28°40′27″ 79°48′58″; M 28°39′50″ 79°48′48″; N 28°39′04″ 79°48′50″; O 28°36′43″ 79°48′27″; P 28°35′01″ 79°48′16″; Q 28°30′37″ 79°47′27″; R 28°30′37″ 79°42′12″; S 28°14′00″ 79°40′54″; T 28°14′00″ 79°45′12″; U 28°11′41″ 79°45′04″; V 28°08′02″ 79°44′37″; W 28°04′42″ 79°44′25″; X 28°01′20″ 79°44′11″; Y 28°00′00″ 79°43′59″; Z 28°00′00″ 79°38′16″; AA 28°11′42″ 79°38′13″; AB 28°23′02″ 79°38′57″; AC 28°36′50″ 79°40′25″; AD 28°38′33″ 79°41′33″; AE 28°38′20″ 79°43′04″; AF 28°41′00″ 79°43′39″; AG 28°48′16″ 79°44′32″; AH 28°54′29″ 79°45′55″; AI 29°00′00″ 79°45′50″; Origin 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area C
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area C is bounded by Rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 25°33′32″ 79°42′18″; A 25°33′32″ 79°47′14″; B 25°21′04″ 79°53′45″; C 25°21′04″ 79°42′04″; Origin 25°33′32″ 79°42′18″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area B
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area B is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 25°49′10″ 80°00′38″; A 25°48′30″ 80°00′23″; B 25°46′42″ 79°59′14″; C 25°27′28″ 80°02′26″; D 25°24′06″ 80°01′44″; E 25°21′04″ 80°01′27″; F 25°21′04″ 79°58′12″; G 25°23′25″ 79°58′19″; H 25°32′52″ 79°54′48″; I 25°36′58″ 79°54′46; J 25°37′20″ 79°56′20″; K 25°49′11″ 79°56′00″; Origin25°49′10″ 80°00′38″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area A
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area A is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:26°58′45″ N 79°35′05″ W27°00′39″ N 79°36′26″ W27°07′55″ N 79°37′52″ W27°14′52″ N 79°37′09″ W27°29′21″ N 79°37′15″ W28°00′00″ N 79°38′16″ W28°00′00″ N 79°43′59″ W27°58′13″ N 79°43′43″ W27°56′23″ N 79°43′45″ W27°49′40″ N 79°43′17″ W27°46′27″ N 79°43′14″ W27°42′00″ N 79°43′25″ W27°36′08″ N 79°43′50″ W27°30′00″ N 79°44′22″ W27°30′00″ N 79°43′48″ W27°29′04″ N 79°44′06″ W27°27′05″ N 79°44′12″ W27°25′47″ N 79°44′15″ W27°19′46″ N 79°43′33″ W27°17′54″ N 79°43′31″ W27°12′28″ N 79°43′19″ W27°07′45″ N 79°44′26″ W27°04′47″ N 79°44′48″ W27°00′43″ N 79°44′58″ W26°58′43″ N 79°44′47″ W26°57′06″ N 79°44′52″ W26°57′06″ N 79°42′34″ W26°49′58″ N 79°42′34″ W26°49′58″ N 79°45′13″ W26°48′58″ N 79°45′15″ W26°47′01″ N 79°45′28″ W26°46′04″ N 79°45′28″ W26°35′09″ N 79°46′20″ W26°33′37″ N 79°46′40″ W26°27′56″ N 79°47′29″ W26°25′55″ N 79°47′49″ W26°21′05″ N 79°48′08″ W26°20′30″ N 79°48′40″ W26°18′56″ N 79°48′37″ W26°03′38″ N 79°48′16″ W26°03′35″ N 79°46′09″ W25°58′33″ N 79°46′08″ W25°54′27″ 79°45′37″ W25°46′55″ N 79°44′14″ W25°38′04″ N 79°45′58″ W25°38′05″ N 79°42′27″ W26°07′49″ N 79°36′07″ W26°17′36″ N 79°36′06″ W26°21′18″ N 79°38′04″ W26°50′46″ N 79°35′12″ W26°50′40″ N 79°33′45″ WAn owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Golden Crab Permit – Middle Zone
- Season is currently open.
- Quota: Stock ACL- 2000000 lbs Whole Weight
0% harvested - Fishing Year: Jan 1 – Dec 31
Notes:
Zone: The Middle Zone (South Atlantic EEZ from 25 degrees N. lat. to 28 degrees N. lat.).
Depth Requirement: In the golden crab middle zone, a golden crab trap may not be deployed in waters less than 700 ft (213 m) deep.
Female Crabs: It is intended that no female golden crabs in or from the South Atlantic EEZ be retained on board a vessel and that any female golden crab in or from the South Atlantic EEZ be released in a manner that will ensure maximum probability of survival. However, to accommodate legitimate incidental catch and retention, the number of female golden crabs in or from the South Atlantic EEZ retained on board a vessel may not exceed 0.5 percent, by number, of all golden crabs on board. See §622.250(a) regarding the prohibition of sale of female golden crabs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
Golden Crab Southern Zone Access Area
Golden Crab Southern Zone Access Area is bounded by Rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 24°14′07″ 80°53′27″; A 24°13′46″ 81°04′54″; B 24°10′55″ 80°58′11″; Origin 24°14′07″ 80°53′27″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Nothern Zone Access Area
Golden Crab Northern Zone Access Area is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″; A 28°56′55″ 79°53′14″; B 28°55′00″ 79°52′22″; C 28°53′35″ 79°51′43″; D 28°51′47″ 79°50′58″; E 28°50′25″ 79°50′17″; F 28°49′53″ 79°50′12″; G 28°49′01″ 79°50′13″; H 28°48′19″ 79°50′01″; I 28°47′13″ 79°49′51″; J 28°43′30″ 79°49′28″; K 28°41′05″ 79°48′56″; L 28°40′27″ 79°48′58″; M 28°39′50″ 79°48′48″; N 28°39′04″ 79°48′50″; O 28°36′43″ 79°48′27″; P 28°35′01″ 79°48′16″; Q 28°30′37″ 79°47′27″; R 28°30′37″ 79°42′12″; S 28°14′00″ 79°40′54″; T 28°14′00″ 79°45′12″; U 28°11′41″ 79°45′04″; V 28°08′02″ 79°44′37″; W 28°04′42″ 79°44′25″; X 28°01′20″ 79°44′11″; Y 28°00′00″ 79°43′59″; Z 28°00′00″ 79°38′16″; AA 28°11′42″ 79°38′13″; AB 28°23′02″ 79°38′57″; AC 28°36′50″ 79°40′25″; AD 28°38′33″ 79°41′33″; AE 28°38′20″ 79°43′04″; AF 28°41′00″ 79°43′39″; AG 28°48′16″ 79°44′32″; AH 28°54′29″ 79°45′55″; AI 29°00′00″ 79°45′50″; Origin 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area C
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area C is bounded by Rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 25°33′32″ 79°42′18″; A 25°33′32″ 79°47′14″; B 25°21′04″ 79°53′45″; C 25°21′04″ 79°42′04″; Origin 25°33′32″ 79°42′18″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area B
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area B is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 25°49′10″ 80°00′38″; A 25°48′30″ 80°00′23″; B 25°46′42″ 79°59′14″; C 25°27′28″ 80°02′26″; D 25°24′06″ 80°01′44″; E 25°21′04″ 80°01′27″; F 25°21′04″ 79°58′12″; G 25°23′25″ 79°58′19″; H 25°32′52″ 79°54′48″; I 25°36′58″ 79°54′46; J 25°37′20″ 79°56′20″; K 25°49′11″ 79°56′00″; Origin25°49′10″ 80°00′38″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area A
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area A is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:26°58′45″ N 79°35′05″ W27°00′39″ N 79°36′26″ W27°07′55″ N 79°37′52″ W27°14′52″ N 79°37′09″ W27°29′21″ N 79°37′15″ W28°00′00″ N 79°38′16″ W28°00′00″ N 79°43′59″ W27°58′13″ N 79°43′43″ W27°56′23″ N 79°43′45″ W27°49′40″ N 79°43′17″ W27°46′27″ N 79°43′14″ W27°42′00″ N 79°43′25″ W27°36′08″ N 79°43′50″ W27°30′00″ N 79°44′22″ W27°30′00″ N 79°43′48″ W27°29′04″ N 79°44′06″ W27°27′05″ N 79°44′12″ W27°25′47″ N 79°44′15″ W27°19′46″ N 79°43′33″ W27°17′54″ N 79°43′31″ W27°12′28″ N 79°43′19″ W27°07′45″ N 79°44′26″ W27°04′47″ N 79°44′48″ W27°00′43″ N 79°44′58″ W26°58′43″ N 79°44′47″ W26°57′06″ N 79°44′52″ W26°57′06″ N 79°42′34″ W26°49′58″ N 79°42′34″ W26°49′58″ N 79°45′13″ W26°48′58″ N 79°45′15″ W26°47′01″ N 79°45′28″ W26°46′04″ N 79°45′28″ W26°35′09″ N 79°46′20″ W26°33′37″ N 79°46′40″ W26°27′56″ N 79°47′29″ W26°25′55″ N 79°47′49″ W26°21′05″ N 79°48′08″ W26°20′30″ N 79°48′40″ W26°18′56″ N 79°48′37″ W26°03′38″ N 79°48′16″ W26°03′35″ N 79°46′09″ W25°58′33″ N 79°46′08″ W25°54′27″ 79°45′37″ W25°46′55″ N 79°44′14″ W25°38′04″ N 79°45′58″ W25°38′05″ N 79°42′27″ W26°07′49″ N 79°36′07″ W26°17′36″ N 79°36′06″ W26°21′18″ N 79°38′04″ W26°50′46″ N 79°35′12″ W26°50′40″ N 79°33′45″ WAn owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Golden Crab Permit – Southern Zone
- Season is currently open.
- Quota: Stock ACL- 2000000 lbs Whole Weight
0% harvested - Fishing Year: Jan 1 – Dec 31
Notes:
Zone: The Southern Zone (South Atlantic EEZ south of 25 degrees N. lat.).
Depth Requirement: In the golden crab southern zone, a golden crab trap may not be deployed in waters less than 700 ft (213 m) deep.
Female Crabs: It is intended that no female golden crabs in or from the South Atlantic EEZ be retained on board a vessel and that any female golden crab in or from the South Atlantic EEZ be released in a manner that will ensure maximum probability of survival. However, to accommodate legitimate incidental catch and retention, the number of female golden crabs in or from the South Atlantic EEZ retained on board a vessel may not exceed 0.5 percent, by number, of all golden crabs on board. See §622.250(a) regarding the prohibition of sale of female golden crabs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
Golden Crab Southern Zone Access Area
Golden Crab Southern Zone Access Area is bounded by Rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 24°14′07″ 80°53′27″; A 24°13′46″ 81°04′54″; B 24°10′55″ 80°58′11″; Origin 24°14′07″ 80°53′27″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Nothern Zone Access Area
Golden Crab Northern Zone Access Area is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″; A 28°56′55″ 79°53′14″; B 28°55′00″ 79°52′22″; C 28°53′35″ 79°51′43″; D 28°51′47″ 79°50′58″; E 28°50′25″ 79°50′17″; F 28°49′53″ 79°50′12″; G 28°49′01″ 79°50′13″; H 28°48′19″ 79°50′01″; I 28°47′13″ 79°49′51″; J 28°43′30″ 79°49′28″; K 28°41′05″ 79°48′56″; L 28°40′27″ 79°48′58″; M 28°39′50″ 79°48′48″; N 28°39′04″ 79°48′50″; O 28°36′43″ 79°48′27″; P 28°35′01″ 79°48′16″; Q 28°30′37″ 79°47′27″; R 28°30′37″ 79°42′12″; S 28°14′00″ 79°40′54″; T 28°14′00″ 79°45′12″; U 28°11′41″ 79°45′04″; V 28°08′02″ 79°44′37″; W 28°04′42″ 79°44′25″; X 28°01′20″ 79°44′11″; Y 28°00′00″ 79°43′59″; Z 28°00′00″ 79°38′16″; AA 28°11′42″ 79°38′13″; AB 28°23′02″ 79°38′57″; AC 28°36′50″ 79°40′25″; AD 28°38′33″ 79°41′33″; AE 28°38′20″ 79°43′04″; AF 28°41′00″ 79°43′39″; AG 28°48′16″ 79°44′32″; AH 28°54′29″ 79°45′55″; AI 29°00′00″ 79°45′50″; Origin 29°00′00″ 79°54′24″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area C
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area C is bounded by Rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 25°33′32″ 79°42′18″; A 25°33′32″ 79°47′14″; B 25°21′04″ 79°53′45″; C 25°21′04″ 79°42′04″; Origin 25°33′32″ 79°42′18″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area B
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area B is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points: Origin 25°49′10″ 80°00′38″; A 25°48′30″ 80°00′23″; B 25°46′42″ 79°59′14″; C 25°27′28″ 80°02′26″; D 25°24′06″ 80°01′44″; E 25°21′04″ 80°01′27″; F 25°21′04″ 79°58′12″; G 25°23′25″ 79°58′19″; H 25°32′52″ 79°54′48″; I 25°36′58″ 79°54′46; J 25°37′20″ 79°56′20″; K 25°49′11″ 79°56′00″; Origin25°49′10″ 80°00′38″.An owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area A
Golden Crab Middle Zone Access Area A is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:26°58′45″ N 79°35′05″ W27°00′39″ N 79°36′26″ W27°07′55″ N 79°37′52″ W27°14′52″ N 79°37′09″ W27°29′21″ N 79°37′15″ W28°00′00″ N 79°38′16″ W28°00′00″ N 79°43′59″ W27°58′13″ N 79°43′43″ W27°56′23″ N 79°43′45″ W27°49′40″ N 79°43′17″ W27°46′27″ N 79°43′14″ W27°42′00″ N 79°43′25″ W27°36′08″ N 79°43′50″ W27°30′00″ N 79°44′22″ W27°30′00″ N 79°43′48″ W27°29′04″ N 79°44′06″ W27°27′05″ N 79°44′12″ W27°25′47″ N 79°44′15″ W27°19′46″ N 79°43′33″ W27°17′54″ N 79°43′31″ W27°12′28″ N 79°43′19″ W27°07′45″ N 79°44′26″ W27°04′47″ N 79°44′48″ W27°00′43″ N 79°44′58″ W26°58′43″ N 79°44′47″ W26°57′06″ N 79°44′52″ W26°57′06″ N 79°42′34″ W26°49′58″ N 79°42′34″ W26°49′58″ N 79°45′13″ W26°48′58″ N 79°45′15″ W26°47′01″ N 79°45′28″ W26°46′04″ N 79°45′28″ W26°35′09″ N 79°46′20″ W26°33′37″ N 79°46′40″ W26°27′56″ N 79°47′29″ W26°25′55″ N 79°47′49″ W26°21′05″ N 79°48′08″ W26°20′30″ N 79°48′40″ W26°18′56″ N 79°48′37″ W26°03′38″ N 79°48′16″ W26°03′35″ N 79°46′09″ W25°58′33″ N 79°46′08″ W25°54′27″ 79°45′37″ W25°46′55″ N 79°44′14″ W25°38′04″ N 79°45′58″ W25°38′05″ N 79°42′27″ W26°07′49″ N 79°36′07″ W26°17′36″ N 79°36′06″ W26°21′18″ N 79°38′04″ W26°50′46″ N 79°35′12″ W26°50′40″ N 79°33′45″ WAn owner or operator of a vessel for which a valid commercial permit for South Atlantic golden crab has been issued may use a trap to fish for golden crab and use a grapple and chain while engaged in such fishing in the following: Golden Crab Access Areas of the Stetson-Miami Terrace and the Pourtales Terrace Deepwater Coral HAPCs. Access is contingent on that zone being authorized on the vessel's permit for South Atlantic golden crab.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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