Gulf grouper catch limits cut and federal waters closed to anglers January through June
The Gulf catch limit for scamp, yellowmouth, black and yellowfin grouper drops from 710,000 to 322,000 pounds, and the commercial quota from 525,000 to 245,000. Recreational harvest of these groupers in federal waters closes January through June every year; the season had been open nearly year-round.
Who it affects
Gulf recreational anglers, charter boats and commercial grouper fishermen
When
This rule takes effect on January 1, 2027.
- : Published in the Federal Register
- : This rule takes effect
Official text
FR Doc. 2026-12175: Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of America; Shallow-Water Grouper Management Measures
On Federal Register. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.