The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is prohibiting directed fishing for species that comprise the deep-water species fishery by vessels using trawl gear in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA), effective 1200 hrs, Alaska local time (A.l.t.), August 1, 2012, through 1200 hrs, A.l.t., September 1, 2012, according to James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS.
The species and species groups that comprise the deep-water species fishery include sablefish, rockfish, deep-water flatfish, rex sole, and arrowtooth flounder. This closure does not apply to fishing by vessels participating in the cooperative fishery in the Rockfish Program for the Central GOA.
This action is necessary because the third seasonal apportionment of the 2012 Pacific halibut bycatch allowance specified for the deep-water species fishery in the GOA has been reached and is issued pursuant to 50 CFR 679.21(d)(7)(i).
After the effective date of this closure, the maximum retainable amounts at 50 CFR 679.20(e) and (f) apply at any time during a trip.
This information bulletin only provides notice of a fishery management action. For the purposes of complying with any requirements of this action, you are advised to see the actual text of the action in the Federal Register.
