Hot off the press / Menhaden Update for netters & dealers

[Michael82929]

February 10, 2014



Dear Atlantic Menhaden Pound Net, Otter Trawl, Gill Net, Bait Net License Holder:
New Jersey Menhaden Dealer:


As of February 10, 2014 the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife has determined that the Atlantic Menhaden quota allocated to the commercial Pound Net, Otter Trawl, Gill Net, and Bait Net fisheries will be harvested by February 12, 2014. Based upon this information and pursuant to N.J.S.A. 23:3-51.11(d)1 (L. 2013, c.74, s.13) the New Jersey directed harvest of menhaden in the commercial Pound Net, Otter Trawl, Gill Net, and Bait Net fisheries will be closed as of 11:59 PM, Wednesday, February 12, 2014.


Therefore, effective 12:00 AM, Thursday, February 13, 2014, no vessel shall land or possess nor shall any dealer accept any Atlantic menhaden harvested by Pound Net, Otter Trawl, Gill Net, or Bait Net in excess of the by-catch trip limit of 6,000 pounds through December 31, 2014. The commercial Atlantic Menhaden Pound Net, Otter Trawl, Gill Net, and Bait Net fisheries will re-open on January 1, 2015.


If the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife determines the directed commercial quota for harvesting Atlantic menhaden using Pound Net, Otter Trawl, Gill Net, or Bait Net was closed prematurely, notification re-opening those gear types will be provided.


If you have any questions, please contact the Bureau of Marine Fisheries at 609-748-2020.


Sincerely,


Brandon Muffley, Administrator
Marine Fisheries Administration


BM/PC/KS(b)