NOAA Fisheries Service established a temporary rule to close the harvest of gag grouper in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Charter and headboats that hold federal reef fish permits are required to abide by federal rules, even in state waters. As of Jan. 1, 2011, this interim rule is in effect for 180 days and could be extended for another 186 days. However, it was the intent of the GMFMC), when requesting this temporary rule, that there should be a recreational harvest of gag in 2011. At its February meeting, the GMFMC discussed an interim rule that would continue the current interim gag grouper closures, but also allow for a recreational open season for gag grouper in Gulf federal waters from Sept. 16 through Nov. 15. This federal open season would be dependent on Florida adopting a consistent closed season for state waters beginning June 1.
