PUBLIC NOTICE

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Fisheries Service

Recreational Black Sea Bass Season Closure

Coastwide

The Secretary of Maryland Department of Natural Resources pursuant to Code of Maryland Regulation 08.02.05.21(E) announces closure of the 2011 recreational fishery for black sea bass effective at 12:01 a.m. Friday March 11, 2010.

The coastwide recreational black sea bass harvest was estimated to be more than 40% over the recreational target in 2010. The 2011 recreational target is nearly the same as 2010; therefore, reductions in harvest are required this year. Recent management measures to reduce harvest have been ineffective at reducing coastwide harvest and have resulted in inequities among states. The two management agencies responsible for management of black sea bass, Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), are working together to more fairly address the 2011 mandatory reductions. A draft management framework to address reductions is currently available for public comment through ASMFC. Pending decision by the ASMFC Summer Flounder, Black Sea Bass, and Scup Management Board in late March, regulations will be drafted by Maryland in compliance with ASMFC and NMFS standards to reopen the fishery.

John R. Griffin
Secretary
Maryland Department of Natural Resources