Recreational Blueline Tilefish in South Atlantic Federal Waters Will Open on May 1, 2022, and Close on July 26, 2022

What/When:

The recreational sector for blueline tilefish in federal waters of the South Atlantic will open at 12:01 a.m., local time, on May 1, 2022, and close at 12:01 a.m., local time, on July 26, 2022.

Why This Closure is Happening:

• The 2022 recreational catch limit for the blueline tilefish is 116,820 pounds whole weight.
• The recreational sector for blueline tilefish in or from federal waters of the South Atlantic is typically open from May 1 through August 31, each year. However, if recreational landings for blueline tilefish reach or are projected to reach the recreational catch limit, NOAA Fisheries will close the recreational sector for the remainder of the fishing year.
• NOAA Fisheries projects the catch limit will be reached by July 26, 2022, and is closing the fishery to prevent the catch limit from being exceeded.

During and After the Closure:

During a closure, the recreational bag and possession limit for blueline tilefish in or from the South Atlantic federal waters is zero.

This bulletin provides only a summary of the existing regulations.  Full regulations can be found in the Federal Register or at https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-50/chapter-VI/part-622/subpart-I.