The lingering effects of the 2019 record floodwaters on Louisiana’s aquatic life continue to be measured by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The Mississippi River remained above flood stage for a historic length of time, with records dating back to 1900. Additionally, local rainfall also impacted other drainages. …
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council would like to gain a better understanding of king mackerel in the Gulf of Mexico. It is seeking information from anglers and divers about trends or “strange things” that scientists and managers may need to know. A scientific stock assessment of king mackerel…
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council met in New Orleans, Louisiana, August 12-15, 2019. The Council re-elected Dr. Tom Frazer as its Chair and Dale Diaz as its Vice Chair. The following is a brief summary of the Council’s actions: Recreational For-Hire Red Snapper Annual Catch Target Buffer…
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council took final action to reduce the buffer between the annual catch limit and the annual catch target for federal for-hire red snapper to 9%. The buffer is in place to account for management uncertainty. Seasons are set based on the annual catch target…
The latest catch statistics recorded by LA Creel, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ (LDWF) near real-time data collection program, is 530,940 pounds, or 65 percent of Louisiana’s allocation. This estimate covers the period through July 21. The season will remain open until recreational landings approach or reach Louisiana’s…
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) continues to measure the impacts that the historic flooding event has had on the state’s crucial aquatic life. Last month, Gov. John Bel Edwards’ requested a federal fisheries disaster declaration which could provide financial assistance to any segment of Louisiana’s fishing industry…
The recent Louisiana high water events along with the opening of the Bonne Carre’ Spillway are having a noticeable effect on the state’s supply of oysters, shrimp, crab and finfish, according to preliminary assessments from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). Preliminary results from monitoring of commercial harvest…
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council met last week in Destin, Florida. The following is a brief overview of what was accomplished: Data Collection Advisory Panel The Council populated its Data Collection Advisory Panel (AP) and created its charge. The charge is “To review and evaluate data collection and…
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council took final action on a Framework amendment that considers reducing the commercial trip limit for greater amberjack. The Council decided to reduce the trip limit to 1000 pounds gutted weight. When 75% of the annual catch target is met, the trip limit will…
Officials with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries announced the 2019 commercial fishing season for greater amberjack in Louisiana State waters will close on Sunday, June 9, at 12:01 a.m. after a brief re-opening on June 1st. The commercial season is currently closed through May 31 st due to…