Tuesday, December 28, 2010

2011 N.C. Saltwater Fishing Tournament Changes

The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries will make two changes to its Saltwater Fishing Tournament, popularly called the Citation Program, effective Jan. 1, 2011.

The tournament is a longstanding certification program that recognizes outstanding saltwater catches, running each year from Jan 1 to Dec. 31.

For 2011, the division will remove red snapper from the program due to a federal fishery closure. The closure went into effect Jan. 4, 2010, and is not expected to be lifted anytime soon.

Additionally, requirements for a bluefin tuna citation will change to promote the release of larger fish. Currently, a fisherman may receive a citation for landing an 80-pound bluefin tuna or releasing one of any size. Beginning Jan. 1, released bluefin tuna must be at least 70 inches curved fork length to receive a citation. Landed fish must weigh at least 200 pounds.

For more information, contact Carole Willis, DMF sport fishing specialist, at (252) 726-7021 or carole.y.willis@ncdenr.gov.  A list of 2011 requirements can be downloaded at http://www.ncfisheries.net/download/2011_NORTH_CAROLINA_SALTWATER_FISHING_TOURNAMENT.pdf.

source: N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries

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