Grouper Closure Jan 09 - April 09

[beachnut53]

Looks like there are some changes in Grouper fishing. No catching from Jan - April of 09. Understand folks with state licenses can still sell their catch as long as it it under the new limits. ( three total grouper per person)?

I understand folks with federal permits can still catch their unlimited quantities?

Can anyone elaborate on the differences between federal and state permits?

Why are federal permits unlimited ?

I understand there is a 150,000 pound limit for the year; is that true?

thanks

[slickster]

Not sure of all the terms....seems federal waters will be closed while state waters will be open?....how are they going to enforce any of it?....

[Team Balla's Steakhouse]

quick question.....

When do state waters end & federal waters begin?

[Prop Blast]

The National Marine Fisheries Service operates regional councils that fix seasons in federal waters, state agencies (here in FL it's the FWC) establish seasons and limits in state waters. The federal gov't likes the states to adhere to their rules, but that doesn't always happen. I believe state waters extend out to 8 miles, buy it may vary.

The Gulf Council sets rules in the Gulf of Mexico. Here in FL, that extends down to an area near Key West and the Dry Tortugas, but I'm not sure the actual line.

From there, the South Atlantic Council sets the rules that affect the remainder of Keys, the east coast of FL, Georgia, and up into the Carolinas. The South Atlantic Council has proposed some pretty draconian restrictions/closures starting in Jan '09. A lot of unhappy anglers and charter capt's.

After that, the Mid-Atlantic Council takes over. I'm not sure where the boundary is between the South Atlantic and Mid-Atlantic is.

PB

[Prop Blast]

I just did some checking for my own curiosity.

The South Atlantic Council oversees the federal waters (out to 200 miles) off NC, SC, GA, FL (to Key West).

The Mid Atlantic Council overseas federal waters off NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, and NC.

NC gets "double dipped" in that both the Mid Atlantic and South Atlantic Councils have a say in things. I'm sure they closely coordinate their recommendations!

PB

[captkenr]

State waters (Florida) extend 3 miles off shore on the Atlantic Coast and 9 miles off shore on the Gulf Coast.

No problem with enforcement. If you are over 9 miles off shore and have Grouper in your boat, you are in a world of hurt. If you are out there with Grouper in your box, you are guilty.

The state/federal waters demarcation line shown on most charts.

[seasick08]

f'kng ridiculous. this why i'm Seasick08. don't pay to own boat no more. when go in effect?