Modification of Gulf of Mexico Vermilion Snapper Overfishing Limit, Acceptable Biological Catch, and Annual Catch Limit

The framework action and rule would modify the overfishing limit (OFL), acceptable biological catch (ABC), and annual catch limit (ACL) for the Gulf vermilion snapper stock consistent with recommendations from the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee. The framework action proposes to increase the OFL from 3,580,000 pounds whole weight (pounds) to 8,600,000 pounds and the ABC from 3,110,000 pounds to 7,270,000 pounds. The proposed rule would increase the ACL from 3,110,000 pounds to 5,452,500 pounds for 2023 and subsequent years, or until management makes a change. Vermilion snapper is managed with a stock ACL that applies to the commercial and recreational sectors.