Boating United has issued an alert encouraging all industry stakeholders to take action and tell the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to support Amendment 43 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region. The NMMA, MRAA, and other industry supporters have worked diligently alongside our fishing coalition partners to open red snapper fishing season, while placing an emphasis on conservation.
The alert comes as new regulations were proposed that would allow a limited 2018 season for red snapper in South Atlantic federal waters. Red snapper has increased in abundance over the last several years – at an even faster rate than predicted by the rebuilding plan. Surveys and angler reports also show a revitalized fishery.
Amendment 43 would allow a limited harvest of one red snapper per person per day. Additionally, fishing would only be permitted on weekends, and the season’s timeframe would be clearly defined.
The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council has already approved Amendment 43. Now it’s time for NOAA to follow suit.
NOAA Fisheries needs to hear from the angling community about opening the season. Please join MRAA in urging NOAA to support Amendment 43.
