Finally, I get to share some (sort of, in a qualified way, kind of) good news with you.
The commercial deepwater grouper and tilefish fisheries closed in May because NOAA Fisheries Service projected landings would reach the quotas by that time. However, an updated report shows that less fish were landed than expected. Based on 2008 daily landings rates and the pounds remaining on each quota, NOAA Fisheries Service has determined these fisheries can reopen for 10 days. November 1 was chosen as the opening day based on feedback from the fishing industry and weather concerns. Many fishers felt that this was the most productive time for the reopening and NOAA Fisheries Service also chose to wait until after the peak of hurricane season to promote safety at sea (National Standard 10).
The operator of a vessel with a valid reef fish permit may not fish for or possess deepwater grouper or tilefish prior to 12:01 a.m., local time, November 1, 2008 and must have landed and bartered, traded, or sold such deepwater grouper or tilefish prior to 12:01 a.m., local time, November 11, 2008.
Good luck, good fishin’, catch ‘em up, and stay safe.