NOAA Fisheries has announced a new rule that will increase the catch limits for lane snapper in the Gulf of Mexico.

The final rule, set to take effect on Oct. 18, is aimed at both recreational and commercial fishers, raising the overfishing limit from 1,053,834 pounds to 1,116,331 pounds whole weight and increasing the acceptable biological catch and stock annual catch limit from 1,028,973 pounds to 1,088,873 pounds.

This decision follows a 2023 interim analysis conducted by NOAA's Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council's Scientific and Statistical Committee, which determined that higher catch levels were sustainable. The council recommended these changes to ensure continued support for the region's fishing industry while maintaining the health of the lane snapper population.

The final rule also simplifies compliance for Gulf of Mexico reef fish commercial fishermen using vessel monitoring systems (VMS). It revises the process for obtaining a power-down exemption from the VMS requirement, allowing fishermen to apply through an online form for immediate authorization from NOAA Fisheries. Additionally, the rule eliminates the need for vessel owners to submit certification forms verifying the installation and activation of VMS units. However, vessels must still have a qualified marine technician install the VMS as required by federal regulation.

NOAA has clarified that the stock annual catch limit for lane snapper applies to both recreational and commercial sectors, meaning there are no separate quotas for each group. This unified limit is intended to promote sustainable fishing practices across the Gulf of Mexico.

For more information, visit the Lane Snapper Catch Limits Abbreviated Framework at the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Regional Office website at www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/gulf-mexico-lane-snapper-catch-limits-abbreviated-framework.