Code of Maine Rules
13 - DEPARTMENT OF MARINE RESOURCES
188 - MARINE RESOURCES - GENERAL
Chapter 51 - Black Sea Bass
Section 188-51-02 - Harvest, Possession and Landing Restrictions
Current through 2024-13, March 27, 2024
1. Quota. Commercial fishing for black sea bass is subject to the annual quota specified by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) specifications. The annual quota is established annually by May 1st for the fishing year. When the annual ASMFC quota for black sea bass is reached, it shall be unlawful to fish for, take, have in possession or land black sea bass taken from Maine territorial waters. Persons shall be informed by public notice in a newspaper with statewide circulation when the annual quota for black sea bass taken from Maine territorial waters has been reached. This is in accordance with the annual quota established by the ASMFC.
This rule shall not apply to vessels or individuals who harvest or possess black sea bass for research use, provided such vessels or individuals have obtained a special license from the Commissioner of Marine Resources.
2. Fishing Method. It shall be unlawful to fish for or take black sea bass from the coastal waters of the State by any method other than hook and line.
3. Size Restriction. It shall be unlawful to take or possess black sea bass measuring less than 13 inches not including the filament/tail extension.
4. Additional Commercial Harvest Restrictions
5. Additional Recreational Harvest Restrictions