NOAA fisheries has implemented a new rule designed to reduce the sea turtle bycatch in the bottom longline fishery. The rule, which took effect on October the 16th prohibits all bottom longlining for Gulf reef fish east of a line off Cape San Blas to the Florida Keys. The line approximates the 35-fathom depth contour. The new rule also restricts the number of hooks allowed on board longline boats to 1,000 with no more than 750 hooks being fished or rigged for fishing at any given time. NOAA hopes the rule will allow the bottom longline fishery to continue while protecting loggerhead sea turtle populations. You can find a full copy of the rule along with maps by clicking HERE.
http://www.oysterradio.com
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