FWC approves new gag grouper fishing rules

Franklin County commissioners have issued a letter of opposition to gag grouper rules that were approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission this week.

The FWC approved a plan to bring state gag grouper rules into line with federal rules as a way to help rebuild the fishery.
The gag grouper rebuilding plan for the Gulf of Mexico includes setting the recreational season to July 1 through October the 31st and decreasing the commercial minimum size limit from 24 inches to 22 inches.
Commissioner Bevin Putnal said the plan basically cuts out fishing for gag grouper in our area altogether because the time that the fishery will be closed is basically the only time you can catch the species.
However, the county commission’s opposition may have already been addressed.

The Fish and Widlife Conservation Commission authorized an executive order opening gag grouper season in the state waters off Taylor, Jefferson, Wakulla and Franklin counties, including Apalachicola Bay and Indian Pass during April, May and June.

It would close harvest in those waters during the July-to-October season.

The FWC said that change will better align fishing opportunity with fish availability.

http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments