Closure of Bluefin Tuna Angling Category Gulf of Mexico Trophy Fishery for 2020

The Angling category Gulf of Mexico incidental trophy bluefin tuna fishery is closed effective 11:30 p.m., April 16, 2020. Trophy bluefin tuna are those measure 73 inches or greater.  The fishery will remain closed through December 31, 2020. 

Individuals aboard vessels with an Atlantic HMS Angling or Atlantic HMS Charter/Headboat permit fishing recreationally in the Gulf of Mexico may not retain, possess, or land large medium or giant Atlantic bluefin tuna after 11:30 p.m. on April 16, 2020.  

Fishermen may catch and release or tag and release bluefin tuna of all sizes, subject to the requirements of HMS catch-and-release and tag-and-release programs. All bluefin tuna that are released must be handled in a manner that will maximize survivability and without removing the fish from the water.