South Atlantic Blueline Tilefish Season Opens Through December
Published Date: 5/19/2026
Rule
Summary
Good news for South Atlantic recreational fishers! The 2026 blueline tilefish fishing season runs from May 19 through December 31, with no early closures expected since catch limits likely won’t be reached. This means more fun fishing time while keeping the blueline tilefish population safe and sound.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Open recreational season May 1–Aug 30
If you fish recreationally for blueline tilefish in South Atlantic Federal waters, the recreational sector will be open from May 1 through August 30, 2026. NMFS projects landings will not reach the recreational annual catch limit, so there will be no in-season closure before the scheduled September 1, 2026 annual closure.
Zero bag/possession during closures
During the recreational closure periods (January 1 through April 30, and September 1 through December 31), the bag and possession limit for blueline tilefish in or from South Atlantic Federal waters is zero. That means you cannot legally possess or keep blueline tilefish during those closed dates.
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