NOAA closes recreational greater amberjack fishing in Gulf waters starting October 14, 2026
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The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is closing the recreational harvest of greater amberjack in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The closure begins on October 14, 2026, and lasts through the end of the fishing year on July 31, 2027.
Why it matters: This action prevents the recreational sector from exceeding its allowed catch of 335,320 pounds. It is an administrative trigger based on existing management plans rather than a new policy change. The goal is to keep the greater amberjack stock within sustainable limits for future years.
Who it affects
- Recreational anglers fishing in federal Gulf waters after October 14, 2026
This rule was issued by NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service on May 29, 2026; check the Federal Register document for full regulatory details.
Agency: Commerce Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document