Snapper, Red
Snapper, Red
Lutjanus campechanusColor pinkish red over entire body, whitish below; long triangular snout; anal fin sharply pointed; no dark lateral spot; red eye.
Found offshore on the continental shelf. Juveniles occur over sandy or mud bottoms; adults may live more than 20 years, and attain 35 pounds or more; sexual maturity is attained at age 2; spawn from June to October; feeds on crustaceans and fish.
Regulations
South Atlantic 225 Snapper Grouper – South Atlantic EEZ
- Season is currently closed.
- Season Closed: September 24, 2025 – July 08, 2026
- 75 lbs Gutted Weight Trip Limit
- Quota: Commercial ACL- 102951 lbs Whole Weight
141.5% 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.
Artificial Reef A
Artificial Reef—A is bounded on the north by 30°57.4′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°55.4′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°13.9′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°16.3′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit
Artificial Reef Alt
Artificial Reef—ALT is bounded on the north by 31°18.6′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°16.6′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°07.0′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°09.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef C
Artificial Reef—C is bounded on the north by 30°52.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°50.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°08.5′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°10.9′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef Cat
Artificial Reef—CAT is bounded on the north by 31°40.2′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°38.2′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°56.2′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°58.6′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef CCA
Artificial Reef—CCA is bounded on the north by 31°43.7′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°41.7′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°40.0′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°42.3′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef DRH
Artificial Reef—DRH is bounded on the north by 31°18.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°16.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°56.6′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°59.0′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef DUA
Artificial Reef—DUA is bounded on the north by 31°47.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°45.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°52.1′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°54.5′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef DW
Artificial Reef—DW is bounded on the north by 31°22.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°20.3′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°49.8′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°51.1′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef F
Artificial Reef—F is bounded on the north by 31°06.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°04.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°10.5′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°13.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef G
Artificial Reef—G is bounded on the north by 31°00.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°58.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°56.8′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°59.2′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef H
Key Biscayne/Artificial Reef—H is bounded on the north by 25°42.82′ N. lat.; on the south by 25°41.32′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°04.22′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°05.53′ W. long. Use of a sea bass pot or bottom longline is prohibited. Use of spearfishing gear is prohibited.
Artificial Reef J
Artificial Reef—J is bounded on the north by 31°36.7′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°34.7′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°47.3′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°50.1′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef KBY
Artificial Reef—KBY is bounded on the north by 30°48.6′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°46.6′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°15.0′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°17.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef KC
Artificial Reef—KC is bounded on the north by 31°51.2′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°49.2′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°45.3′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°47.7′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef KTK
Artificial Reef—KTK is bounded on the north by 31°31.3′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°29.3′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°59.1′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°01.5′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef L
Artificial Reef—L is bounded on the north by 31°46.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°44.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°34.7′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°37.1′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef MRY
Artificial Reef—MRY is bounded on the north by 30°47.5′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°45.5′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°05.5′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°07.8′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef SAV
Artificial Reef—SAV is bounded on the north by 31°55.4′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°53.4′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°45.2′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°47.6′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef SFC
Artificial Reef—SFC is bounded on the north by 31°00.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°59.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°02.2′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°03.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef WW
Artificial Reef—WW is bounded on the north by 31°43.5′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°42.2′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°57.7′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°59.3′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Beaufort 45ft Reef
Beaufort 45 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°07.65′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°06.65′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°28.80′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°29.80′ 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-limit.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.
Betsy Ross Reef
Betsy Ross Reef is bounded on the north by 32°03.60′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°02.88′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°24.57′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°25.50′ 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-limitAll harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Bill Perry Jr Reef
Bill Perry Jr. Reef is bounded on the north by 33°26.20′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°25.20′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°32.70′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°33.80′ 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-limit.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.
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.
BP 25 Reef
BP-25 Reef is bounded on the north by 33°21.70′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°20.70′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°24.80′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°25.60′ 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.
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.
Cape Romain Reef
Cape Romain Reef is bounded on the north by 33°00.00′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°59.50′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°02.01′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°02.62′ 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 limit..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.
Capers Reef
Capers Reef is bounded on the north by 32°45.45′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°43.91′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°33.81′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°35.10′ 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-limitAll harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Charleston 60ft Reef
Charleston 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°33.60′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°32.60′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°39.70′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°40.90′ 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 limit.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.
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.
CJ Davidson Reef
CJ Davidson Reef is bounded on the north by 33°06.48′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°05.48′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°00.27′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°01.39′ 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 limit.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.
Comanche Reef
Comanche Reef is bounded on the north by 32°27.40′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°26.90′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°18.80′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°19.60′ 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.
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.
Eagles Nest Reef
Eagles Nest Reef is bounded on the north by 32°01.48′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°00.98′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°30.00′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°30.65′ 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 limit.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.
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 40ft Reef
Edisto 40 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°25.78′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°24.78′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°11.24′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°12.32′ 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 limit.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.
Edisto 60ft Reef
Edisto 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°21.75′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°20.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°04.10′ W. longitude; and on the west by 80°05.70′ 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 limit.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.
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.
Edisto Offshore Reef
Edisto Offshore Reef is bounded on the north by 32°15.30′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°13.90′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°50.25′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°51.45′ 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.
Fripp Island Reef
Fripp Island Reef is bounded on the north by 32°15.92′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°14.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°21.62′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°22.90′ 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-limit.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.
Ft Pierce Inshore Reef
Ft. Pierce Inshore Reef is bounded on the north by 27°26.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 27°25.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°09.24′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°10.36′ W. long. Use of a sea bass pot or bottom longline is prohibited. A hydraulic or electric reel that is permanently affixed to the vessel is prohibited when fishing for South Atlantic snapper-grouper. Use of spearfishing gear is prohibited.
Ft Pierce Offshore Reef
Ft. Pierce Offshore Reef is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:27°23.68′ N 80°03.95′ W27°22.80′ N 80°03.60′ W27°23.94′ N 80°00.02′ W27°24.85′ N 80°00.33′ W27°23.68′ N 80°03.95′ WUse of Sea Bass Pot or Bottom Longline ProhibitedUse of powerhead to take South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper prohibitedA hydraulic or electric reel that is permanently affixed to the vessel is prohibited when fishing for South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper
Georgetown 95ft Reef
Georgetown 95 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°11.75′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°10.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°24.10′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°25.63′ 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 limit.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.
Georgetown Reef
Georgetown Reef is bounded on the north by 33°14.90′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°13.85′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°59.45′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°00.65′ 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-limit.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.
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.
Greenville Reef
Greenville Reef is bounded on the north by 32°57.25′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°56.25′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°54.25′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°55.25′ 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 limit.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.
Hilton Head Reef
Hilton Head Reef (Artificial Reef—T) is bounded on the north by 32°00.71′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°59.42′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°35.23′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°36.37′ 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. 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
Hunting Island Reef
Hunting Island Reef is bounded on the north by 32°13.72′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°12.30′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°19.23′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°21.00′ 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-limitsAll harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Kiawah Reef
Kiawah Reef is bounded on the north by 32°29.78′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°28.25′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°59.00′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°00.95′ 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-limit.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.
Little River Offshore Reef
Little River Offshore Reef is bounded on the north by 33°42.10′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°41.10′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°26.40′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°27.10′ 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-limit.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.
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.
Murrels Inlet 60ft Reef
Murrel's Inlet 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°17.50′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°16.50′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°44.67′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°45.98′ 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 limit.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.
New Georgetown 60ft Reef
New Georgetown 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°09.25′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°07.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°49.95′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°51.45′ 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 limit.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.
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.
North Inlet 45ft Reef
North Inlet 45 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°21.03′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°20.03′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°00.31′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°01.51′ 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 limit.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.
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.
Oculina Experimental Closed Area (OECA)
No person may fish for South Atlantic snapper-grouper in the experimental closed area, and no person may retain South Atlantic snapper-grouper in or from the area. Any South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken incidentally by hook-and-line gear must be released immediately by cutting the line without removing the fish from the water.
Paradise Reef
Paradise Reef is bounded on the north by 33°31.59′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°30.51′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°57.55′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°58.85′ 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-limit.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.
Pawley's Island Reef
Pawleys Island Reef is bounded on the north by 33°26.58′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°25.76′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°00.29′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°01.24′ 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-limit.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.
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.
Ten Mile Reef
Ten Mile Reef is bounded on the north by 33°26.65′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°24.80′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°51.08′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°52.97′ 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-limit.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.
Vermilion Reef
Vermilion Reef is bounded on the north by 32°57.80′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°57.30′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°39.30′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°40.10′ 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 limit.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.
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.
AR-130
AR-130. The center of this SMZ is located at 36°00.296′N 75°31.957′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-140
AR-140. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°56.718′ N 75°31.965′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-145
AR-145. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°54.017′ N 75°23.883′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-220
AR-220. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°08.117′ N 75°40.633′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 3,000 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-225
AR-225. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°06.768′ N 75°39.322′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-230
AR-230. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°06.133′ N 75°42.933′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-250
AR-250. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°56.900′ N 75°54.860′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-255
AR-255. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°55.483′ N 75°57.910′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-285
AR-285. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°33.383′ N 76°26.350′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-300
AR-300. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°18.517′ N 76°24.133′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-302
AR-302. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°10.265′ N 76°13.703′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-305
AR-305. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°16.683′ N 76°38.650′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-330
AR-330. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°33.634′ N 76°51.267′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 3,000 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-340
AR-340. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°34.319′ N 76°58.345′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-345
AR-345. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°32.266′ N 76°58.508′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-355
AR-355. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°21.318′ N 77°19.877′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-362
AR-362. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°15.657′ N 77°30.392′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-366
AR-366. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°12.950′ N 77°25.250′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-368
AR-368. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°09.514′ N 77°25.782′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-372
AR-372. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°06.295′ N 77°44.917′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-376
AR-376. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°03.283′ N 77°39.633′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-382
AR-382. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°58.581′ N 77°41.172′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-386
AR-386. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°57.517′ N 77°33.400′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-400
AR-400. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°29.267′ N 77°35.227′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-420
AR-420. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°51.050′ N 78°06.710′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-440
AR-440. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°49.800′ N 78°13.083′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-445
AR-445. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°44.783′ N 78°14.100′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-455
AR-455. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°47.033′ N 78°17.883′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-460
AR-460. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°50.089′ N 78°22.022′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-465
AR-465. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°23.423′ N 78°11.052′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-04 Ron McManus Memorial Reef
PA–04—Ron McManus Memorial Reef. This SMZ is bounded by lines connecting the following corner points: 33°46.400′ N, 78°36.200′ W;33°46.400′ N, 78°35.600′ W;33°45.900′ N, 78°35.600′ W;33°45.900′ N, 78°36.200′ W. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones.Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-07 Pop Nash Reef
PA-07 Pop Nash Reef. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°34.510′ N 78°51.000′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 200 yards in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones. Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibitedHarvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-28 Lowcountry Anglers Reef
PA-28 Lowcountry Anglers Reef. The center of this SMZ is located at 32°34.300′ N 79°55.100′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 200 yards in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones. Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibited. Harvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-34 CCA McClellanville Reef
PA-34 CCA McClellanville Reef. The center of this SMZ is located at 32°51.800′ N 79°22.500′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 200 yards in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones. Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibited. Harvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
South Atlantic Unlimited Snapper Grouper – South Atlantic EEZ
- Season is currently closed.
- Season Closed: September 24, 2025 – July 08, 2026
- 75 lbs Gutted Weight Trip Limit
- Quota: Commercial ACL- 102951 lbs Whole Weight
141.5% 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.
Artificial Reef A
Artificial Reef—A is bounded on the north by 30°57.4′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°55.4′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°13.9′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°16.3′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit
Artificial Reef Alt
Artificial Reef—ALT is bounded on the north by 31°18.6′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°16.6′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°07.0′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°09.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef C
Artificial Reef—C is bounded on the north by 30°52.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°50.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°08.5′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°10.9′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef Cat
Artificial Reef—CAT is bounded on the north by 31°40.2′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°38.2′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°56.2′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°58.6′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef CCA
Artificial Reef—CCA is bounded on the north by 31°43.7′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°41.7′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°40.0′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°42.3′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef DRH
Artificial Reef—DRH is bounded on the north by 31°18.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°16.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°56.6′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°59.0′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef DUA
Artificial Reef—DUA is bounded on the north by 31°47.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°45.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°52.1′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°54.5′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef DW
Artificial Reef—DW is bounded on the north by 31°22.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°20.3′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°49.8′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°51.1′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef F
Artificial Reef—F is bounded on the north by 31°06.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°04.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°10.5′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°13.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef G
Artificial Reef—G is bounded on the north by 31°00.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°58.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°56.8′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°59.2′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef H
Key Biscayne/Artificial Reef—H is bounded on the north by 25°42.82′ N. lat.; on the south by 25°41.32′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°04.22′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°05.53′ W. long. Use of a sea bass pot or bottom longline is prohibited. Use of spearfishing gear is prohibited.
Artificial Reef J
Artificial Reef—J is bounded on the north by 31°36.7′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°34.7′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°47.3′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°50.1′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef KBY
Artificial Reef—KBY is bounded on the north by 30°48.6′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°46.6′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°15.0′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°17.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef KC
Artificial Reef—KC is bounded on the north by 31°51.2′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°49.2′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°45.3′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°47.7′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef KTK
Artificial Reef—KTK is bounded on the north by 31°31.3′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°29.3′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°59.1′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°01.5′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef L
Artificial Reef—L is bounded on the north by 31°46.0′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°44.0′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°34.7′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°37.1′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef MRY
Artificial Reef—MRY is bounded on the north by 30°47.5′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°45.5′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°05.5′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°07.8′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef SAV
Artificial Reef—SAV is bounded on the north by 31°55.4′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°53.4′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°45.2′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°47.6′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef SFC
Artificial Reef—SFC is bounded on the north by 31°00.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 30°59.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 81°02.2′ W. long.; and on the west by 81°03.4′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Artificial Reef WW
Artificial Reef—WW is bounded on the north by 31°43.5′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°42.2′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°57.7′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°59.3′ 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.Possession of South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken with a powerhead is limited to the bag limit.
Beaufort 45ft Reef
Beaufort 45 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°07.65′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°06.65′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°28.80′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°29.80′ 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-limit.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.
Betsy Ross Reef
Betsy Ross Reef is bounded on the north by 32°03.60′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°02.88′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°24.57′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°25.50′ 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-limitAll harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Bill Perry Jr Reef
Bill Perry Jr. Reef is bounded on the north by 33°26.20′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°25.20′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°32.70′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°33.80′ 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-limit.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.
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.
BP 25 Reef
BP-25 Reef is bounded on the north by 33°21.70′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°20.70′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°24.80′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°25.60′ 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.
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.
Cape Romain Reef
Cape Romain Reef is bounded on the north by 33°00.00′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°59.50′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°02.01′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°02.62′ 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 limit..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.
Capers Reef
Capers Reef is bounded on the north by 32°45.45′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°43.91′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°33.81′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°35.10′ 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-limitAll harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Charleston 60ft Reef
Charleston 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°33.60′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°32.60′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°39.70′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°40.90′ 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 limit.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.
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.
CJ Davidson Reef
CJ Davidson Reef is bounded on the north by 33°06.48′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°05.48′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°00.27′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°01.39′ 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 limit.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.
Comanche Reef
Comanche Reef is bounded on the north by 32°27.40′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°26.90′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°18.80′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°19.60′ 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.
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.
Eagles Nest Reef
Eagles Nest Reef is bounded on the north by 32°01.48′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°00.98′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°30.00′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°30.65′ 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 limit.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.
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 40ft Reef
Edisto 40 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°25.78′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°24.78′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°11.24′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°12.32′ 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 limit.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.
Edisto 60ft Reef
Edisto 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 32°21.75′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°20.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°04.10′ W. longitude; and on the west by 80°05.70′ 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 limit.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.
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.
Edisto Offshore Reef
Edisto Offshore Reef is bounded on the north by 32°15.30′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°13.90′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°50.25′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°51.45′ 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.
Fripp Island Reef
Fripp Island Reef is bounded on the north by 32°15.92′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°14.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°21.62′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°22.90′ 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-limit.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.
Ft Pierce Offshore Reef
Ft. Pierce Offshore Reef is bounded by rhumb lines connecting, in order, the following points:27°23.68′ N 80°03.95′ W27°22.80′ N 80°03.60′ W27°23.94′ N 80°00.02′ W27°24.85′ N 80°00.33′ W27°23.68′ N 80°03.95′ WUse of Sea Bass Pot or Bottom Longline ProhibitedUse of powerhead to take South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper prohibitedA hydraulic or electric reel that is permanently affixed to the vessel is prohibited when fishing for South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper
Ft Pierce Inshore Reef
Ft. Pierce Inshore Reef is bounded on the north by 27°26.8′ N. lat.; on the south by 27°25.8′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°09.24′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°10.36′ W. long. Use of a sea bass pot or bottom longline is prohibited. A hydraulic or electric reel that is permanently affixed to the vessel is prohibited when fishing for South Atlantic snapper-grouper. Use of spearfishing gear is prohibited.
Georgetown 95ft Reef
Georgetown 95 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°11.75′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°10.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°24.10′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°25.63′ 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 limit.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.
Georgetown Reef
Georgetown Reef is bounded on the north by 33°14.90′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°13.85′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°59.45′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°00.65′ 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-limit.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.
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.
Greenville Reef
Greenville Reef is bounded on the north by 32°57.25′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°56.25′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°54.25′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°55.25′ 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 limit.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.
Hilton Head Reef
Hilton Head Reef (Artificial Reef—T) is bounded on the north by 32°00.71′ N. lat.; on the south by 31°59.42′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°35.23′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°36.37′ 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. 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
Hunting Island Reef
Hunting Island Reef is bounded on the north by 32°13.72′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°12.30′ N. lat.; on the east by 80°19.23′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°21.00′ 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-limitsAll harvest and possession of coastal migratory pelagic fish (King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia) within the SMZ is limited to the recreational bag limit.
Kiawah Reef
Kiawah Reef is bounded on the north by 32°29.78′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°28.25′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°59.00′ W. long.; and on the west by 80°00.95′ 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-limit.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.
Little River Offshore Reef
Little River Offshore Reef is bounded on the north by 33°42.10′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°41.10′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°26.40′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°27.10′ 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-limit.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.
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.
Murrels Inlet 60ft Reef
Murrel's Inlet 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°17.50′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°16.50′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°44.67′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°45.98′ 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 limit.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.
New Georgetown 60ft Reef
New Georgetown 60 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°09.25′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°07.75′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°49.95′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°51.45′ 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 limit.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.
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.
North Inlet 45ft Reef
North Inlet 45 Foot Reef is bounded on the north by 33°21.03′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°20.03′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°00.31′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°01.51′ 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 limit.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.
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.
Oculina Experimental Closed Area (OECA)
No person may fish for South Atlantic snapper-grouper in the experimental closed area, and no person may retain South Atlantic snapper-grouper in or from the area. Any South Atlantic snapper-grouper taken incidentally by hook-and-line gear must be released immediately by cutting the line without removing the fish from the water.
Paradise Reef
Paradise Reef is bounded on the north by 33°31.59′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°30.51′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°57.55′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°58.85′ 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-limit.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.
Pawley's Island Reef
Pawleys Island Reef is bounded on the north by 33°26.58′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°25.76′ N. lat.; on the east by 79°00.29′ W. long.; and on the west by 79°01.24′ 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-limit.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.
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.
Ten Mile Reef
Ten Mile Reef is bounded on the north by 33°26.65′ N. lat.; on the south by 33°24.80′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°51.08′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°52.97′ 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-limit.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.
Vermilion Reef
Vermilion Reef is bounded on the north by 32°57.80′ N. lat.; on the south by 32°57.30′ N. lat.; on the east by 78°39.30′ W. long.; and on the west by 78°40.10′ 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 limit.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.
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.
AR-130
AR-130. The center of this SMZ is located at 36°00.296′N 75°31.957′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-140
AR-140. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°56.718′ N 75°31.965′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-145
AR-145. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°54.017′ N 75°23.883′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-220
AR-220. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°08.117′ N 75°40.633′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 3,000 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-225
AR-225. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°06.768′ N 75°39.322′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-230
AR-230. The center of this SMZ is located at 35°06.133′ N 75°42.933′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-250
AR-250. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°56.900′ N 75°54.860′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-255
AR-255. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°55.483′ N 75°57.910′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-285
AR-285. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°33.383′ N 76°26.350′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-300
AR-300. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°18.517′ N 76°24.133′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-302
AR-302. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°10.265′ N 76°13.703′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-305
AR-305. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°16.683′ N 76°38.650′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-330
AR-330. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°33.634′ N 76°51.267′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 3,000 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-340
AR-340. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°34.319′ N 76°58.345′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-345
AR-345. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°32.266′ N 76°58.508′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-355
AR-355. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°21.318′ N 77°19.877′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-362
AR-362. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°15.657′ N 77°30.392′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-366
AR-366. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°12.950′ N 77°25.250′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-368
AR-368. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°09.514′ N 77°25.782′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-372
AR-372. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°06.295′ N 77°44.917′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-376
AR-376. The center of this SMZ is located at 34°03.283′ N 77°39.633′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-382
AR-382. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°58.581′ N 77°41.172′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-386
AR-386. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°57.517′ N 77°33.400′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-400
AR-400. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°29.267′ N 77°35.227′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-420
AR-420. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°51.050′ N 78°06.710′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-440
AR-440. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°49.800′ N 78°13.083′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-445
AR-445. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°44.783′ N 78°14.100′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-455
AR-455. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°47.033′ N 78°17.883′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-460
AR-460. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°50.089′ N 78°22.022′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
AR-465
AR-465. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°23.423′ N 78°11.052′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 1,500 feet in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point.Harvest of snapper-grouper species is allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear.Use of bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear is prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species by spear is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-04 Ron McManus Memorial Reef
PA–04—Ron McManus Memorial Reef. This SMZ is bounded by lines connecting the following corner points: 33°46.400′ N, 78°36.200′ W;33°46.400′ N, 78°35.600′ W;33°45.900′ N, 78°35.600′ W;33°45.900′ N, 78°36.200′ W. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones.Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibited.Harvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-07 Pop Nash Reef
PA-07 Pop Nash Reef. The center of this SMZ is located at 33°34.510′ N 78°51.000′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 200 yards in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones. Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibitedHarvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-28 Lowcountry Anglers Reef
PA-28 Lowcountry Anglers Reef. The center of this SMZ is located at 32°34.300′ N 79°55.100′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 200 yards in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones. Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibited. Harvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
PA-34 CCA McClellanville Reef
PA-34 CCA McClellanville Reef. The center of this SMZ is located at 32°51.800′ N 79°22.500′ W and the SMZ extends outwards 200 yards in every direction laterally from that point to form a circle around the center point. Harvest of snapper-grouper species is only allowed with handline, rod and reel, and spear in these zones. Bandit reel, powerhead, pot, and longline gear are prohibited. Harvest of snapper-grouper species with all gear types is limited to the applicable recreational bag limit.
Recent news
Upcoming meetings
Amendments in progress
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Snapper Grouper Amendment 62
Joint federal-state management of recreational red snapper in the South Atlantic.
Pre-scoping -
Snapper Grouper Amendment 46
Addresses private recreational reporting and permitting.
Public hearing