Notice of Adoption of Agency Rulemaking: Chapter 34 Groundfish, Chapter 52 Mackerel

The DMR Advisory Council has reviewed and approved the following rulemakings related to recreational fishing:

For questions related to the management of the Atlantic mackerel, cod, or haddock, contact Megan Ware at [email protected] or 207-446-0932.?

On September 1, 2022, DMR adopted an emergency rule to be consistent with a NOAA Fisheries federal rulemaking. DMR is adopting the emergency rule as part of its regular rules. Consistent with the existing emergency rule, this rule implements regulatory changes for charter, party and recreational fishing vessels operating in state waters regarding Gulf of Maine cod and haddock. The bag limit for Gulf of Maine haddock is increased to 20 fish, with the fishing season and minimum size remaining unchanged. The season for Gulf of Maine cod is expanded such that cod may be possessed on board charter, party, or recreational fishing vessels from April 1-14, inclusive, and from September 1 ? October 7, inclusive. The minimum size for Gulf of Maine cod is also increased to 22 inches, and there is no change to the 1-fish bag limit. This action ensures compliance with the federal fishery management plan. It also expands recreational fishing opportunities for these species in Maine state waters.

CONCISE SUMMARY:
This rule establishes a 20-fish per person per day recreational take and possession limit for Atlantic mackerel. Atlantic mackerel caught on a recreational, party, or charter vessel can be pooled in one or more containers;
compliance with the 20-fish limit will be determined by dividing the number of Atlantic mackerel onboard by
the number of persons onboard. Atlantic mackerel caught recreationally may be communally stored in dockside
bait pens. Mackerel purchased from a lawful bait dealer with proof of receipt do not count towards the 20 fish
possession limit. Similarly, chunked frozen mackerel do not count towards the 20 fish limit. Individuals who
hold a commercial pelagic and anadromous fishing license are exempt from the possession and take limit.
Further, the possession limit does not apply to several commercial licenses including lobster and crab fishing
licenses, finfish licenses, and wholesale and retail licenses issued by the Maine Department of Marine
Resources.

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