



A description and explanation of the Monkfish Offshore Fishery Program and Category F Permits.
The Category F monkfish permit allows for a higher possession limit in exchange for a reduction in days-at-sea (DAS) allocation and a requirement to fish offshore (see the "Offshore Monkfish Fishery Program Area" defined below). Any monkfish limited access Category A-D permit holder can switch to this category. This change can be requested within 45 days of a permit’s effective date. To be accepted, the permit must not have used any DAS for the fishing year, and must meet the criteria listed below. If you would like more information or to change categories, please contact our Permit Office at (978)-282-8438.
The monkfish possession limit is 1,600 lb of tail weight or 4,656 lb of whole weight. Each permit holder’s DAS allocation will vary based on prior permit category. Please call the Sustainable Fisheries Division at (978) 281-9315 if you would like to know what your DAS allocation would be if you were to switch to a Category F permit.
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Reminder: The season for the Monkfish Offshore Fishery Program is October 1 through April 30, and it only takes place within the designated program area (above).