2020 Commercial Blueline Tilefish Fishery Closure

Regulations for the blueline tilefish fishery are at 50 CFR part 648. The regulations at § 648.295(b)(2)(ii) require that when we project that blueline tilefish catch will reach 100 percent of the total allowable landings (TAL), the Regional Administrator must close the commercial blueline tilefish fishery for the remainder of the fishing year.

The Regional Administrator has determined, based on dealer reports and other available information, that the blueline tilefish commercial fishery will catch 100 percent of the TAL by November 21, 2020. Effective 0001 November 21, 2020, vessels may not retain or land blueline tilefish in or from the Tilefish Management Unit through December 31, 2020.