DECREASE IN BLACK SEA BASS POSSESSION LIMIT FOR COMMERCIAL FISHERY EFFECTIVE THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26

PROVIDENCE – The Department of Environmental Management announces a reduction of the commercial possession limit for black sea bass within state waters. Effective October 26, 2000, the daily possession limit will decrease to 1,000 pounds until further notice.

This adjustment mirrors the possession limit reduction of black sea bass in federal waters. The action complies with the Emergency Rule for Black Sea Fishery adopted by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. This rule requires states to reduce commercial possession limits once 50 percent of the quarterly coast-wide quota of 450,000 pounds is caught. Participants in the fishery should be prepared for a complete closure once the entire quota has been landed.