The new regulations address concerns over the population decline of Pacific bluefin tuna. Based on an international stock assessment, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries declared Pacific bluefin tuna overfished because the spawning biomass is at an historic low. An international rebuilding effort is underway, which requires reducing fishing impacts across the north Pacific. The goal of the effort is to bring the stock back to healthy levels and ensure sustainability of future harvests.
In short, Limits of Pacific Bluefin Tuna will go from 10 to 2 fish per day and the following fish cleaning at sea will be;
- Four loins (two upper and two lower)
- Belly fillet including the pelvic fins and urogenital vent
- Collar with pectoral fins attached
- Each fish must be placed in its own bag and clearly labeled with the species name.
- Tunas may also be kept whole, or in a manner that retains these identifying characteristics
Be sure to read the following link to the DFW to make sure you are all caught up with the new regulations!
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