RI DEM/Fish & Wildlife - Summary of Amendments to Marine Fisheries Regulations

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Summary of Changes to the
"Rhode Island Marine Fisheries Regulations"

If you have questions, contact Jason McNamee at 401-423-1943 or jason.mcnamee@dem.ri.gov
Current Marine Fisheries licensing regulations entitled "2008 Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries" and the companion Management Plans

5/6/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 7, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/1/08
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.6 and 7.11.2 - These technical revisions correct the minimum size for recreational scup and correct bullet numbering in one section. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/29/08
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for spiny dogfish to 3,000 pounds/day beginning 12:01 AM on May 1, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/18/08
PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.11.1 and 15.14.1 - These actions amend the commercial lobster management plan by implementing a maximum gauge size in area 2, specifying a federal permit area in one section, and changing the trap tag effective date to June 1. [This regulation becomes effective 5/8/08].

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 200 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 19, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/11/08
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.4, 7.11.2, 7.11.4, and 7.22.2 - These actions amend the recreational management plan for scup and summer flounder, implements an aggregate landing limit for the commercial scup fishery in the summer, and amends the commercial cod language for federal permit holders. [This regulation becomes effective 5/1/08].

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action amends the quota rollover date for the commercial general category fishery for striped bass. [This regulation becomes effective 5/1/08].

PART XVI - MENHADEN
16.1 - This action amends the menhaden management plan in RI. [This regulation becomes effective 5/1/08].

4/8/08
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.22.2, 4.24.3, and 4.28.3 - These actions amend the last shellfish harvest date from April 30 to April 25 to accommodate the 2008 quahaug transplant in Bissel, Bristol, and High Banks Shellfish Management Areas. [This regulation becomes effective 4/28/08].

3/20/08
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 1,000 pounds/week if permitted for the aggregate program or 100 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 23, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/13/08
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for scup to 1,000 pounds/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 16, 2008. This action also terminates the scup aggregate program for the winter 1 sub period. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.21.1 - This action amends the commercial management plan for monkfish by changing the possession limit in state waters and changing the restrictions on where federally permitted vessels can fish. [This regulation becomes effective 4/2/08].
7.9 - This action amends the commercial and recreational management plan for tautog by changing quota overage provisions and the beginning date and bag limits for the recreational fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 4/2/08].

3/6/08
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 200 pounds/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 9, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/28/08
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 2,000 pounds/week if permitted for the aggregate program or 200 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 2, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/11/08
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.27 - This action sets the opening schedule for the Greenwich Bay Management area and makes some technical amendments to the other shellfish management areas.[This regulation becomes effective on January 31, 2008].

1/4/08
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector
This technical revision amends the shellfish sector management plan to reflect the most up to date version of the plan. An old version was inadvertently filed. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/20/07
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on December 25, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/7/07
2008 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS
New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2008 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". (These regulations become effective 12/27/07)
This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans (effective 12/27/07):

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;

Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

11/9/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass and summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on November 10, 2005 to 1,500 pounds and 1,000 pounds respectively per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/4/05
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.24.3 - This EMERGENCY action closes the Bissel Cove-Fox Island Transplant Area until the regularly scheduled opening date of the second Wednesday in December. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/1/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for scup beginning 3:00 PM on November 1, 2005 to 3000 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/21/05
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.24.3 - This EMERGENCY action opens the Bissel Cove-Fox Island Transplant Area temporarily to shellfishing from a boat on Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 12:00 PM until further notice. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/4/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on October 5, 2005 to 250 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.10.4 - This action changes the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Management Area schedule to open on an annual basis for the summer harvest area beginning on October 24, 2005. [This regulation becomes effective October 24, 2005].

9/27/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 28, 2005 to 750 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup for gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on September 28, 2005 to 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/14/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 15, 2005 to 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 15, 2005 for all gear types other than floating fish traps. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/12/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on August 12, 2005 to 300 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/8/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.19 - This amendment creates a section for Atlantic herring in RI regulations governing the commercial harvest of Atlantic herring in RI. [This regulation becomes effective 7/28/05].

7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on July 9, 2005 to 150 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup beginning 12:01 AM on July 9, 2005 to 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on July 9, 2005 to 250 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/21/05
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE MANAGEMENT OF MARINE FISHERIES
This action enacts the dockside sale policy for lobster which creates a new endorsement for commercial lobster licenses allowing a license with endorsement holder to sell live lobsters at the dock. [This regulation becomes effective on July 11, 2005].

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial fishery for striped bass for the general category fishery beginning 12:01 AM on June 23, 2005. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/17/05
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE LANDING OF SHELLFISH IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
This emergency action regulates the landing of shellfish in Rhode Island to prevent the landing of shellfish which has been harvested in areas closed by governmental agencies due to the presence of red tide. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/3/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for scup for the floating fish trap sector beginning 12:01 AM on June 4, 2005 to 1,000 pounds per fish trap licensee per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/1/05
PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.11 and 15.20 - This action is an amendment to the schedule for commercial lobster gauge increases that removes the July 1, 2005 increase of 1/32" [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

5/24/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7 - This action is a technical revision to the supercede number on the 5/24/05 filing of Part VII that was incorrectly written as 3576 on the original filing, it should have read 3567 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/23/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for scup for the floating fish trap sector beginning 12:01 AM on May 24, 2005 to 10,000 pounds per fish trap licensee per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/16/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 17, 2005 until August 1, 2005 at which point the possession limit will be 10 fish per vessel per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/6/05
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 and 12.5 - This action is an amendment to change the striped bass floating fish trap quota roll over date to the general category fishery from October 15 to October 1. The 10,000 pound floating fish trap set aside will be available on October 15 to the general category fishery [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES
11.19.1 - This action is an amendment to the mesh size requirements for the winter flounder fishery. The minimum mesh size will be 6.5" for harvesting winter flounder in state waters [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.12.4 - This action is an amendment to the Ninigret Pond spawner sanctuary which expands the spawner sanctuary boundaries from a triangle to a rectangle in the western section of the pond [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS
10.11 - This action is an amendment to the Scup gear requirements which increases the minimum mesh requirement to 5" for the scup fishery from May 1 through October 31 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.8.1 - This action is an amendment to the Winter Flounder recreational fishery which alters the season to open on the fourth Saturday in April, running for 30 days, and then to open on the last Saturday in September, running for 30 days [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.8.2 - This action is an amendment to the Winter Flounder commercial fishery which increases the minimum mesh size to 6.5" for harvesting winter flounder in state waters [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.11.4 - This action is an amendment to the Scup recreational fishery which alters the bag limit and season to 25 fish from July 1 through October 31 for the shore/private sectors and 25 fish from July 1 through August 31 ; 60 fish from September 1 through October 31 for the party/charter boat sector [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.14.1 - This action is an amendment to the Black Sea Bass commercial fishery which re-allocates the quota in the summer 2 (39%) and winter 2 (11%) sub periods [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.14.2 - This action is an amendment to the Black Sea Bass recreational fishery which opens the recreational fishery annually from January 1 through December 31 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.14.2 - This action is an amendment to the Shad fishery which prohinits the landing or possession of shad in state waters [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

4/26/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases commercial possession of summer flounder to 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day [from 1000 pounds per vessel per calendar day], effective at 1:00PM 4/26/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/18/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases commercial possession of summer flounder to 1,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day [from 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day], effective at 1:00PM 4/18/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/4/05
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1 - This action is a technical revision to clarify the summer flounder aggregate program. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.24.3 - This EMERGENCY action opens the Bissel Cove-Fox Island Transplant Area temporarily to shellfishing from a boat until 4/30/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/5/05
PART XIV - FISH TRAPS
14.1 - 14.7 - This action amends regulations for the floating fish trap industry. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART XVII - MAPS
MAPS 6a and 6b - This action amends the floating fish trap mapping. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

12/21/04
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.10.4, 4.22.2, 4.24.3, 4.27 and 4.28 - This action alters the harvest schedule for boat shellfish harvesting in Greenwich Bay, Bristol Harbor, Bissel Cove, Potowomut Shellfish, and High Banks management areas during the 2004 holiday season. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/13/04
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.10.4 and 4.27 - This action clarifies language regarding boat harvesting in Greenwich Bay and Potowomut Shellfish management areas. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FOR FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1 and 7.11.2 - This action initiates an aggregate program for scup and summer flounder. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

11/24/04
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 and 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types beginning 12:01 AM 11/25/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/17/04
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 and 12.5 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types beginning 1:00 PM 11/17/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/12/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1 - This action alters the scheduled sub-period allocation for the commercial summer flounder fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery effective 12:01 AM 11/13/04. This fishery will reopen when the next sub-period begins 4/15/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.11.2 - This action alters the scheduled 11/1 sub-period opening possession limit for the commercial scup fishery to 3,500 lbs. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

11/03/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial summer flounder fishery to 1,000 lbs. [from the 11/1/04 sub-period opener of 450 lbs.], effective 1:00 PM on 11/3/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.11.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial scup fishery to 3,500 lbs. [from the 11/1/04 sub-period opener of 2,000 lbs.], effective 1:00 PM on 11/3/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.14 - This action reduces the possession limit for the commercial black sea bass fishery to 100 lbs. [from the 11/1/04 sub-period opener of 500 lbs.], effective 1:00 PM on 11/3/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types from 1:00 PM 11/3/04 through 12:01 AM 11/8/04 at which time and date the striped bass fishery will close to all gear types. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/22/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial summer flounder fishery to 1,000 lbs. [from 500 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 10/23/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.11.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial scup fishery to 500 lbs. [from 100 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 10/23/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types other than floating fish traps for three days effective 12:01 AM 10/23/04 through 12:01 AM 10/26/04 at which time and date the striped bass fishery will close to all gear types INCLUDING floating fish traps see section 12.5. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/08/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commerical summer flounder fishery to 500 lbs. [from 300 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 10/09/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/10/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commerical summer flounder fishery to 300 lbs. [from 200 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 9/13/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the striped bass fishery for all gear types other than floating fish traps, effective at 12:01 AM on 9/13/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/03/04
PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.11.1 - This action is a technical revision to re-insert a line that was inadvertently dropped during the 8/17/04 filing [This regulation becomes effective 9/6/04].

8/17/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.2 - This action adjusts the recreational season for black sea bass [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (9/6/04)].

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.11.1; 15.14.1; 15.20.3 - This action sets the schedule for increases in lobster gauge and escape vent sizes; and elminates the "Lobster Exemption Certificate" program for fishermen. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (9/6/04)].

8/12/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession for summer flounder to 200 lbs. [from 150 lbs.] for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 8/13/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/24/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession for summer flounder to 150 lbs. [from 100 lbs.] for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 6/25/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession for scup to 100 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.] for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 6/25/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/18/04
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 6/21/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/25/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action reduces the commercial floating fish trap possession limit of scup to 1,000 pounds per trap licensee, per calendar day [from 10,000 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 5/26/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/14/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery, effective 12:01 AM 5/17/04 until the 8/1/04 sub-period begins. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/13/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action reduces the commercial floating fish trap possession limit of scup to 10,000 pounds per trap licensee, per calendar day [from 25,000 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 5/14/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/16/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 750 pounds per vessel, per calendar day [from 300 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 4/17/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/2/04
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.27 - This action amends the boundaries and harvesting schedule of the Potowomut Shellfish Management Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

4.28 - This action modifies the harvesting schedule of the High Banks Shellfish Management Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1 - This action allows the commercial summer flounder aggregate landings emergency program to expire;

7.15.2 - allows the spiny dogfish aggregate landings program to expire;

7.7.4 and 7.11.4 - alters the recreational management plans for both scup and summer flounder;

7.11.2 - alters the management plan for the commercial floating fish trap scup fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.13.1 - This action increases the legal size for circular escape vents; and

15.14.1 - limits the number of trap tags allowed. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

3/5/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2- This action decreases the commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 300 pounds per vessel, per calendar day [from 700 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 3/6/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/25/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2- This action terminates the aggregate landing program for the summer flounder commercial fishery. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/29/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1- This action is a technical revision to the percentage calculations of the quota allocation for the annual sub-periods of the summer flounder commercial fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

1/05/04
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1- This action establishes an aggregate landing program for the summer flounder commercial fishery during the sub-period known as Winter I [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/11/03
New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2004 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". (These regulations become effective 20 days from filing - 12/31/03)
This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans that were filed on 11/7/03 (effective 11/27/03):
Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;

Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and

Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector. View CURRENT Licensing Regulations and Management Plans

12/05/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2- This action increases the commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 1,000 pounds per vessel, per calendar day [from 450 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 12/6/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/18/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.9.2- This action closes the commercial tautog fishery effective 12:01 AM 11/19/03. This fishery will re-open April 15, 2004. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery, effective 12:01 AM 11/19/03. This fishery will re-open January 1, 2004. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 11/07/03
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL
3.9.1 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1- This action adjusts commercial quota management for summer flounder for 2004 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.11.2 - This action adjusts commercial quota management for scup for 2004; and adds language that updates current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.14.1 - This action adjusts commercial quota management for black sea bass for 2004 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART IX - SHELLFISH BUYER'S LICENSE - STATUTES
9.3 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.5.2 & 5.8.1 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

15.11.1 - This action makes permanent the emergency filing of 5/2/03 that implemented an exemption program for dealers or individuals that exclusively fish in ASMFC Lobster Management Area 3 to possess lobsters that are shorter than the minimum gauge size specified for Rhode Island. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

15.13.2 - This action amends the escape vent specifications for lobster pots. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]

15.14.1 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

Management Plans
This action adopted 2004 management controls as required by section 6.2 of the "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries"
Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;

Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and

Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector.
(These regulations become effective 20 days from filing) View CURRENT Licensing Regulations and Management Plans 11/03/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1- This action decreases the commercial possession of black sea bass to 100 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 500 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 11/04/03. This fishery is scheduled to begin a new sub-period on 1/1/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery with a 3-fish/day/license holder possession limit for all gear types except floating fish traps, effective 11/08/03 at 12:01 AM, until the remaining allotted annual quota is harvested. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2- This action decreases the commercial possession of scup to 1,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 4,000 lbs.] for all gear types except floating traps, effective 12:01 AM 10/30/03. This fishery is scheduled to begin a new sub-period on 11/1/03 with a 4,000 lb. possession limit per vessel, per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/24/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.15.2- This action establishes an aggregate landing program for the commercial spiny dogfish fishery, effective 12:01 AM 10/26/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/23/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2- This action increases the commercial possession of scup to 4,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 300 lbs.] for all gear types except floating traps, effective 12:01 AM 10/24/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/20/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1- This action closes the commercial fishery for black sea bass for the remainder of this sub-period, effective 12:01 PM 10/21/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open Nov. 1, 2003 with a possession limit of 500 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/16/03
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery to all gear types except floating fish traps from 10/16/03 at 2:00 PM through 10/25/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/16/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2- This action increases the commercial possession of scup to 300 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 100 lbs.] for all gear types except floating traps, effective 2:00 PM 10/16/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open on Nov. 1, 2003 with a possession limit of 2,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.14.1- This action reduces the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 50 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 100 lbs.], effective 2:00 PM 10/16/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open Nov. 1, 2003 with a possession limit of 500 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/11/03
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery to all gear types except floating fish traps, effective 12:01 AM 9/12/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/21/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2- This action closes commercial scup fishery for all gear types except floating traps, effective 12:01 AM 8/24/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open on Sept. 16, 2003 with a possession limit of 100 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/27/03
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery to all gear types except floating fish traps, effective 12:01 AM 6/29/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open 9/1/03 to harvest the remainder of the quota with a reduced possession limit of 3 fish per person, per day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/19/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action closes the commercial summer flounder fishery, effective 12:01 AM 6/21/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open 8/1/03 with a 150 lb. possession limit. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7.11.2- This action closes commercial scup for the floating trap fishery for the reminder of 2003, effective 12:01 AM 6/20/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/13/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2- This action reduces the commercial possession limit of scup for gear types other than floating traps to 100 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 6/14/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/09/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2- This action reduces the commercial possession limit of scup for the floating trap fishery to 2,000 lbs. [from 10,000 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 6/10/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/05/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1- This action reduces the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 50 lbs. [from 100 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 6/6/03, until the quota is harvested or until August 1, 2003 when the possession limit is scheduled to be 100 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/02/03
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.10.4 - This action adjusts the harvesting schedule for a portion of the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Mangement Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

4.28 - This action clarifies and updates the winter harvesting schedule for the High Banks Shellfish Management Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.18.1- This action establishes the commercial possession limit for weakfish as June 1 - June 30 and from August 7 - November 8, the commercial possession is unlimited. At all other times the possession limit is 300 pounds. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

7.18.2 - This action establishes the recreational season for weakfish as open January 1 - December 31, annually. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 5/27/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action reduces the possession limit of commercial scup to 10,000 lbs. [from 25,000 lbs.] for the floating fish trap fishery effective 5/28/03 at 12:01 AM and until the start of the next sub-period 6/1/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 5/15/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery effective 5/16/03 at 12:01 AM until 8/1/03, the start of the next sub-period. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 5/02/03
PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.11.1 - This action implements an exemption program for dealers or individuals that exclusively fish in ASMFC Lobster Management Area 3 to possess lobsters that are shorter than the minimum gauge size specified for Rhode Island. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 4/18/03
PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.13 - This action increases the escape vent sizes for lobster traps, effective 7/1/03 at 12:01 AM. [This regulation becomes effective twenty days from filing (5/8/03)].

15.14.1 - This action specifies a time period during which recreational lobster trap tags are valid. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/8/03)].

15.20.3 - This action adopts the ASMFC Lobster Fishery Management Area management measures [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/8/03)].

4/11/03
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.27 - This action inserts language into the Potowomut Shellfish Management Area regulations that allows for harvesting modification any year when Christmas day falls on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1 - This action inserts language allowing modification to the sub-periods for the commercial summer flounder fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)].

7.7.4 - This action decreases the recreational minimum size for summer flounder to 17.5" [from 18"] total length; and increases the recreational summer flounder season. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)].

7.9.2 - This action adjusts the season allocations; and possession limits to 10 fish [from 20 fish], for the commercial tautog fishery. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 4/11/03)

7.11.2 - This action adjusts the scup sub-periods/quota allocations for the floating fish trap fishery.[This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

7.11.4 - This action increases the recreational scup season and possession limit. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

7.14.1 - This action adjusts the sub-periods and possession limits for the commercial black sea bass fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

7.14.2 - This action increases the minimum size to 12" [from 11.5"]; and establishes a season for recreational black sea bass. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

7.15 - This action establishes a season and possession limit for the commercial spiny dogfish fishery; establishes a prohibition on 'finning'. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

7.18 - This action establishes a season for the recreational weakfish fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action adjusts the season, quota allocations, and possession limits of the commercial striped bass fishery for gear types other than fish traps. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

12.5 - This action adjusts the season, quota allocations, and possession limits of the commercial striped bass fishery for the floating fish trap fishery.[This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

4/3/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 100 lbs. [from 300 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 4/5/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession of black sea bass to 100 lbs. [from 500 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 4/5/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

3/28/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 300 lbs. [from 1,500 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 3/30/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession of black sea bass to 500 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 3/30/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

3/14/03
PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.11.1 - This action sets a schedule for increasing the minimum gauge size for the lobster fishery. Effective 3/15/03 the gauge size will be 3-11/32 inches (84.93mm); then effective 7/1/03 the gauge size will increase to 3-3/8 inches (85.72mm). (This regulation becomes effective 3/15/03).

2/14/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession of summer flounder to 1,500 lbs. [from 700 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 2/16/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

7.11.2 - This action establishes a weekly trip limit program for the commercial scup fishery. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

01/09/03
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.15 - This action closes the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on January 10, 2003. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS
10.1 - This action eliminates language that prohibited the use of SCUBA in Charlestown, Green Hill and Quonochaontaug Ponds. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing - 1/29/03).

PART XVI - MENHADEN REGULATIONS
16.1; 16.2; 16.4 - This action amends these regulations to reflect the new RI General Law 20-4.1-3 that prohibits the taking of menhaden for reduction (fishmeal) purposes from Rhode Island waters. (This regulation becomes effective twenty days from filing - 1/29/03).

REPEALED regulations entitled "Wet Storage of Molluscan Shellfish" on this date. These regulations are superceded by 19.5 of the RI Marine Fisheries Statutes and Regulations. 12/31/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession of black sea bass for the 1/1/03 scheduled opening to 1,000 lbs. [from 7,000 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 1/1/03 at 12:01 AM. This action is taken in compliance with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's Fishery Management Plan(FMP) for black sea bass. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

12/19/02
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.10.4, 4.22.2, 4.24.3, & 4.28 - This action modifies the winter shellfish harvesting schedule now in place for Greenwich Bay, Bissel Cove, Bristol Harbor and High Banks Shellfish Management Areas. The action closes these areas on Wednesday 12/25/02 (Christmas Day) then allows shellfish harvesting on the day immediately following Christmas day. The language allows for this harvesting modification any year when Christmas falls on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

12/11/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.17 - This action prohibits the commercial harvesting, landing, or possession of American shad within Rhode Island waters between January 1 and June 17, 2003. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.11.1 - This action increases the legal minimum size of lobster to 3 - 5/16" (84.13mm) beginning 1/1/03. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

A technical revision was made on this date to the new commercial fishing licensing regs entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries" View CURRENT Licensing Regulation and Management Plans 12/03/02
New regulations that restructure the marine fisheries commercial licensing system have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans:
Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;

Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and

Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector.
(These regulations become effective 20 days from filing) View CURRENT Licensing Regulations and Management Plans

PART II - SHELLFISH AND FINFISH HARVESTING LICENSES
This action REPEALS Part II of the "RI Marine Fisheries Statutes and Regulations". The new licensing regulation listed above now supercede Part II. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.10 - This action inserts residual language from Part II of the "RI Marine Fisheries Statutes and Regulations". (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

11/27/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 150 pounds [from 450 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on 11/28/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

7.11.2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery effective 12:01 AM on 12/2/02. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/03. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

11/22/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery for the remainder of the 10/15/02 - 12/31/02 sub-period, effective 11/23/02 at 12:01 AM. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 4/15/03. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

11/20/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on 11/22/2002. The next sub-period is scheduled to begin 1/1/2003. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.19 - This action removes the language that prohibited shellfishing by SCUBA in Charlestown, Green Hill or Quonochontaug Ponds. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing)
4.27 - This action closes shellfishing from a boat until the second Wednesday in December, 2003 in the Potowomut Shellfish Management Area. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing) 10/31/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.15 - This action reopens the commercial spiny dogfish fishery for harvest, landing, and possession within the territorial waters of Rhode Island, beginning 12:01 AM on 11/1/2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

10/25/02
PART V - SCALLOPS
5.13 - This action prohibits the dredging of scallops in Point Judith Pond during the 2002 scallop season. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

5.14 - The action eliminates the language of this entire section on the prohibition of the use of SCUBA to harvest shellfish in Charlestown, Green Hill, and Quonochontaug Ponds for consistency RI law. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

10/23/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit of black sea bass to 100 lbs. [from 750 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM October 24, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

10/18/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 300 lbs. [from 200 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM October 20, 2002. These regulations are for all gear types except floating fish traps. The scup sub-period that begins 11/1/02 is scheduled to open with a commercial possession limit of 2,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

10/03/02
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps, effective October 4, 2002 at 12:01 AM. The fish trap fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/03. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

09/27/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 750 lbs. [from 200 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM October 1, 2002 for a period of four days. On October 5, 2002 at 12:01 AM the possession limit will return to 200 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. These regulations are for all gear types except floating fish traps (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

09/13/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 200 lbs. [a limit that was scheduled to open 9/16/02 at 100 lbs.]; effective 9/16/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery gear types other than floating fish traps, effective October 1, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

08/09/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 200 lbs. [from 100 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day for all gear types except floating fish traps, effective August 10, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

08/02/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery, effective August 6, 2002 at 12:01 AM. The black sea bass fishery is scheduled to reopen 10/1/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

07/19/02
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps, effective July 22, 2002 at 12:01 AM. The fish trap fishery is scheduled to reopen 9/1/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

07/15/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial per vessel/per day possession limit of black sea bass to 100 lbs. [from 500 lbs.], effective July 16, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

06/28/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.15 - This action closes the commercial spiny dogfish fishery, effective July 1, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial rod and reel striped bass fishery, effective June 29, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). 06/24/02
PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS
1.3 - This action adds new definitions for Part IV and the new Part XIX. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.1.7 - 4.1.10 AND 4.30 - 4.33 -- This action prescribes guidelines for the sale, handling, and tagging of shellfish by commercial harvesters. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing)

PART XIX - FISH/SHELLFISH DEALERS REGULATIONS
This action establishes regulations that prescribe the conduct, possession, holding, bartering, trading, and sale of shellfish, wild or cultured, for shellfish dealers for the purposes of protecting the public's health, safety, and welfare. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

The DEM Director filed regulations governing Aquaculture of Marine Species in Rhode Island Waters. The purpose of these regulations are to establish the permitting, licensing, and conditions under which aquaculture shall be conducted in Rhode Island. The full text of the regulations are posted here in Adobe Acrobat format. (These regulations become effective upon filing) 06/21/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action closes the commercial summer flounder fishery, effective June 23, 2002 at 12:01 AM. This fishery will re-open August 1, 2002 with a possession limit of 150 lbs. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

06/11/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.4 - This action amends the season and possession limits for the recreational scup fishery. This fishery will open on July 1, 2002 with a possession limit of 8 scup; then on August 24, 2002 the possession limit will increase to 50 scup through 12/31/02. The minimum size remains at 10" TL. (This regulation becomes effective 7/01/02). 06/06/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery, effective June 7, 2002 at 12:01 AM. This fishery will reopen on July 1, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 6/05/02).

PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.10.4 - This action opens a portion of the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Management Area to harvesting shellfish by boat from sunrise June 26, 2002 until sunset September 2, 2002. This opening will be subject to water quality status by DEM Office of Water Resources. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 6/06/02) 05/24/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action reduces commercial possession limit of black sea bass to 150 lbs. [from 1,500 lbs.] beginning 12:01 AM on May 28, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 5/24/02). 05/10/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2 - This action reduces commercial possession limit of scup to 100 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.] beginning 12:01 AM on May 11, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 5/10/02). 04/26/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 100 lbs. [from 1,500 lbs.] beginning 12:01 AM on April 28, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective 04/26/02 upon filing)

7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery beginning 12:01 AM on April 28, 2002, until the next sub-period begins on August 1, 2002. (This regulations becomes effective upon filing 4/26/02)

7.14 - This action increases the legal commercial length for possession of black sea bass to 11 inches (11") [from 10"] (This regulations becomes effective upon filing 4/26/02)

7.15 - This action permits the commercial harvest, landing, and possession of spiny dogfish within the territorial Rhode Island waters. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 4/26/02) 04/11/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.4 - This action increases the minimum size for the recreational possession of summer flounder to eighteen inches (18") [from 17.5"]; reduces the possession limit to five (5) summer flounder [from 6 fish]; and establishes the 2002 recreational season at 5/25 - 9/20/2002.  (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

7.11.2 - This action sets the conditions for the commercial harvest of the scup annual quota allocated for the Summer-Fall Period.  (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

7.11.4 - This action establishes the recreational season for scup at 8/1 - 12/31 annually.  (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

7.14.1 - This action sets a schedule for commercially harvesting the annual allocated quota of black sea bass  (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

7.14.2 - This action increases the minimum size for the recreational possession of black sea bass to eleven and one-half inches (11-1/2") [from 11"]; and increases the season to year around.    (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS
10.11.1 - This action changes the minimum mesh requirements for trawl nets used to harvest scup and black sea bass; also the trigger poundage. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES
11.12.2 - This action changes the escape vent size requirements for traps/pots used to harvest black sea bass.   (This regulations becomes effective 5/1/02)

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 This action specifies seasons, quota allocations, and possession limits for the 2002 commercial striped bass fishery.  (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS
15.14.1 - This action clarifies language for the lobster trap tag program to achieve intent of ASMFC's Lobster FMP.  (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

03/28/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.1 - This action redefines sub-periods, sub-period allocations, and beginning possession limits for the commercial summer flounder fishery. This filing also establishes a procedure by which the over-harvested or under-harvested allocation of a sub-period will be managed. (This regulation becomes effective 04/17/02) 03/06/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2-1 - This action decreases commercial possession of scup to 1,000 lbs. [from 10,000 lbs.] . (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 03/07/02) 02/08/02
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2-2 - This action increases commercial possession of summer flounder to 1,500 lbs. [from 700 lbs.] . (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 02/10/02)
12/31/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action reduces the 1/1/02 - 3/31/02 season-opening commercial possession of black sea bass to 7,000 lbs.. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 1/1/02) 12/27/01
PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL and
PART IV - SHELLFISH
This action renews several existing Shellfish Management Areas for a five-year period. (This regulation becomes effective at upon filing 12/27/01)
12/13/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2-2 - This action closes the commercial fishery for summer flounder (fluke). This fishery is scheduled to re-open 1/1/02 with a 700 lbs. possession limit. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 12/15/01) 11/28/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2-2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit per vessel, per calendar day of summer flounder (fluke) to 1,000 pounds [from 350 lbs.]. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 11/29/01) 11/21/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2-1 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/02. (This regulation becomes effective 11/23/01)

7.15 - This action closes the commercial spiny dogfish fishery until further notice (This regulation becomes effective 11/23/01) 11/15/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery for the remainder of the 10/15 - 12/31 sub-period. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 4/15/02. (This regulation becomes effective 11/16/01)

11/07/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/02 with a possession limit of 9,000 lbs. per vessel per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 11/10/01)

10/26/01
PART IV - SHELLFISH
4.28 - This action changes the boat harvest schedule for the High Banks Shellfish Management Area. That schedule will resume on the second Wednesday in December 2002. (This regulation becomes effective 11/15/01)

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.15 - This action allows possession of spiny dogfish in the territorial waters of Rhode Island. Action taken to compliment the Federal opening on 11/1/01. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing (10/26/01) 10/10/01
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action opens the commercial striped bass fisheryfor gear types other than floating fish traps for a two-day bonus period from 10/13/01 through 10/14/01. This bonus period is established to utilize the small unharvested quota remaining from the annual allocated quota. (This regulation becomes effective 10/13/01 at 12:01 AM)

9/26/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2-2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 9/28/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.11.2-1 - This action increases the commercial scup possession limit for the Winter Period II (November - December). The scup possession limit on 11/1/01 will be 2000 lbs. [up from 500 lbs.]; once 70% of the period quota is harvested the possession limit will decrease to 500 lbs. (This regulation becomes effective 9/27/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.14.1 - This action decreases the commercial black sea bass possession limit for the October - December period. The possession limit on 10/1/01 will be 300 lbs. [down from 2,000 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 9/27/01 at 12:01 AM)

PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for gear types other than floating fish traps (This regulation becomes effective 9/27/01 at 12:01 AM)

9/18/01
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps -- 100% of the 2001 annual quota for floating traps has been harvested. [This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/02] (This regulation becomes effective 9/19/01 at 12:01 AM)

8/9/01
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps. [This fishery is scheduled to reopen 9/1/01 with an unlimited possession limit until 100% of the trap net quota is harvested.] (This regulation becomes effective 8/10/01 at 12:01 AM)

7/25/01
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action opens the commercial striped bass fishery for gear types other than floating fish traps from 8/1/01 through 8/4/01 with a possession limit of three (3) fish per calendar day. This bonus season is established to utilize the small unharvested quota from the previous sub-period. (This regulation becomes effective 8/1/01 at 12:01 AM)

12.5 - This action opens the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps beginning 7/27/01 at 12:01 AM with a possession limit of 100 pounds per calendar day until 80% of the trap net quota is harvested. Further, the fishery will reopen 9/1/01 with an unlimited possession limit until 100% of the trap net quota is harvested. (This regulation becomes effective 7/27/01 at 12:01 AM)

7/23/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2-2 - The action closes the commercial summer flounder (fluke) fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 7/25/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.11.2-2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery. (This regulations becomes effective 7/25/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery until October 1, 2001 for gear types other than floating fish traps. The fishery is scheduled to re-open with a possession limit of 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 7/24/01 at 12:01 AM)

7/10/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.14.1 - This action reduces the legal maximum commercial possession of black sea bass to 150 pounds per calendar day [from 1000 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 7/12/01 at 12:01 AM)

12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps. (This regulation becomes effective 7/12/01)

6/28/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.15 - This action closes the commercial spiny dogfish fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 6/29/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.7.1 - This action clarifies language within this section regarding adjustments to sub-period allocations for summer flounder. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing)

7.11.5-1 - This action implements regulations to govern the shipping, transfer, and reporting of scup (This regulation becomes effective upon filing)

6/22/01
PART XII - STRIPED BASS
12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery. [The fishery is scheduled to re-open September 15, 2001.] (This regulation becomes effective 6/25/01 at 12:01 PM)

6/12/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2-2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery for floating fish traps (This regulation becomes effective 6/13/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery for the remainder of the current period. [The fishery is scheduled to reopen 7/1/01 with a possession limit of 1,000 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 6/14/01 at 12:01 AM) 6/08/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the legal maximum commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 50 lbs. per calendar day [from the June 1 sub-period opener of 100 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 6/11/01 at 12:01 AM) 5/25/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2-2 - This action closes the scup fishery to commercial methods of harvest other than floating fish traps. (This regulation becomes effective 5/26/001 at 12:01 AM)

7.11.2-2 - This action reduces the commercial floating fish trap possession limit of scup to 500 lbs. per calendar day [from 1,000 lbs.] until the fishery closes on 5/29/01 at 12:01AM. Further, on June 1, 2001 the possession limit for the trap fishery will be 1,000 lbs. per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 5/26/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/22/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.11.2-2 - This action opens the commercial scup fishery for floating fish traps with a possession limit of 1,000 lbs. per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 5/23/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/16/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 50 lbs. [from 100 lbs.] per calendar day for commercial license holders with or without a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. (This regulation becomes effective 5/17/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery for the remainder of the 4/15 - 5/31 sub-period. The fishery is scheduled to re-open when the next sub-period begins on August 1, 2001. (This regulation becomes effective 5/18/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/11/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7 - This action establishes the distribution among the sub-periods of the annual allocated quota of summer flounder and allows for the adjustment of that distribution in the event of an estimated over-harvest. (This regulation becomes effective 5/31/01)

7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 150 lbs. per calendar day [from 1500 lbs.] as required by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). (This regulation becomes effective 5/14/01 at 12:01 AM) 5/8/01
PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH
7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 100 lbs. [from 750 lbs.] per calendar day for commercial license holders with or without a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. (This regulation becomes effective 5/10/01 at 12:01 AM)

7.11.2 - This action closes the scup fishery to commercial floati