NOAA Fisheries' 2023 Recreational Guidelines: Spotlight on Cod and Haddock
Effective Date: August 14, 2023
NOAA Fisheries Announces Changes
Today marks a pivotal moment as NOAA Fisheries unveils its finalized directive, ushering in significant alterations to recreational fishing guidelines. The species under the spotlight? The iconic
Cod and
Haddock.
Cod Adjustments: Georges Bank & Gulf of Maine
Following productive discussions with the New England Fishery Management Council, NOAA Fisheries is
embracing recommended modifications, particularly focusing on
Georges Bank cod and
Gulf of Maine cod. These changes reflect a collaborative effort to ensure sustainable fishing practices, prioritizing both environmental and recreational interests.
Haddock: Managing Catch Sizes and Quotas
When it comes to the
Gulf of Maine haddock, there's a renewed emphasis on refining catch sizes and quotas. Both charter and personal recreational fishing will experience modifications, crafted to effectively manage harvests and significantly reduce waste from unretained catches. This move not only promotes sustainable fishing but also seeks to optimize the harvest and diminish the discard rates of
haddock.
Balancing Conservation Efforts
For our beloved
Gulf of Maine cod, there's an anticipated relaxation in the current guidelines. Conversely, more stringent controls are slated for the
Georges Bank cod and
Gulf of Maine haddock. These meticulous adjustments are crucial in our quest to prevent overfishing, ensuring that both
cod and
haddock continue to thrive in their natural habitats.
Further Information
Craving a deep dive into the 2023 recreational guidelines? For a detailed exploration, navigate to our finalized directive or peruse our informative bulletin. Remember, all outlined changes come into effect on August 14, 2023.
