Southern Tuna Trophy Season Shut Down: Giants Swim Free in 2025
Published Date: 3/5/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting in 2025, the southern area trophy fishery for big Atlantic bluefin tuna is closed to recreational anglers and charter boats. This means if you fish for giant bluefin tuna (73 inches or bigger) in this area, you’ll have to wait until next year. This change helps protect these amazing fish and keeps the sport fair and fun for everyone.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Charter/Headboat Recreational Trips Restricted
Starting in 2025, HMS Charter/Headboat permitted vessels are prohibited from recreationally fishing for or retaining giant Atlantic bluefin tuna 73 inches (185 cm) curved fork length or greater in the southern area. Charter and headboat operators with Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Angling or HMS Charter/Headboat permits cannot offer or legally conduct trophy bluefin trips in that area under the closure.
Southern Trophy Fishery Closed to Anglers
Starting in 2025, the southern area trophy fishery for Atlantic bluefin tuna is closed to recreational anglers. The closure applies to giant trophy fish measuring 73 inches (185 cm) curved fork length or greater, so if you fish for giant bluefin tuna in the southern area you cannot legally target or retain those fish until the closure is lifted next year.
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