By Staff
The Marine Resources Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announces that, as per regulation, a two fish per person limit for red snapper will be in effect opening day of the Gulf red snapper season on June 1.
The minimum size requirement is 16 inches total length. This applies to all state waters out to the three-mile territorial sea line.
The state recreational creel limit will run concurrently with the new federal quotas by reducing the recreational bag limit in state waters from four fish to two fish, setting the captains and crews limit of for-hire vessels at zero, and shortening the recreational fishing season to June 1 through August 5, 2008.
The 16-inch total length minimum size limit for recreational fishermen will remain the same.
Additionally, reef fish anglers are reminded to use the federally required non-stainless circle hooks, de-hooking devices and fish venting tools to reduce mortality on undersized fish that are returned to the water.
For further information, visit the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council Web site at www.gulfcouncil.org.
For more information regarding the regulation, contact the Marine Resources Division offices at Gulf Shores: 251-968-7576; or Dauphin Island: 251-861-2882.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama's natural resources through marine police, marine resources, state lands, state parks, and wildlife and freshwater fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.