News from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.
April 17, 2009 - Vol. 39, No. 170
For more information, contact Roy Miller, 302-739-9914, Fisheries, or Joanna C. Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.
Summer Flounder, Black Sea Bass Regulations Amended for 2009 Fishing Season
Following a March 26 public hearing and review of public comments, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has issued a Secretary’s Order amending state Tidal Finfish Regulations concerning summer flounder and black sea bass, with changes to take effect on May 11 for the 2009 fishing
In concert with federal and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) requirements, Delaware is required to cap its 2009 summer flounder harvest at 65,000 fish, an adjustment from last year’s 64,000. To meet these guidelines, the Order sets a minimum size limit of 18.5 inches, a four fish creel limit, and no closed season. Until the new regulations take effect, last year’s limits – 19.5 inches and four per day – remain in effect.
Due to a change in regional size requirements mandated by ASFMC for the 2009 fishing season, the Order also adjusts the minimum size requirement for black sea bass from the 12 inches previously specified under Delaware regulations to 12.5 inches. Black sea bass length measurement does not include the filament on top of the tail.
For more information, please contact the DNREC Fisheries Section at 302-739-9914.