The rule sets a 10-vermilion snapper bag limit within the 20-fish aggregate reef fish bag limit (see box below). Vermilion snapper is not overfished (the population is healthy) or undergoing overfishing (catch rates are not too high). However, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) received input from some fishermen that the vermilion snapper population may be declining. In addition, recreational landings have been increasing in recent years and could contribute to the vermilion snapper annual catch limit being met before the end of the fishing year. This would result in a closure of vermilion snapper fishing. To minimize the risk of this occurring, the Council recommended a 10-fish vermilion snapper bag limit within the 20-fish aggregate reef fish bag limit.
Yellowtail snapper
The rule increases the Gulf of Mexico yellowtail snapper annual catch limit from 725,000 pounds to 901,125 pounds. A recent assessment determined the yellowtail snapper population is considered to be healthy. Therefore, the Council recommended the annual catch limit be increased.
Reef fish venting tool requirement
The rule eliminates the requirement to use venting tools when fishing for reef fish. Some scientific studies have questioned the usefulness of venting tools in preventing barotrauma in fish, particularly those caught in deep waters. Barotrauma is damage caused by a quick change in pressure when fish are brought to the surface. In addition, some fish caught in shallow waters may not need to be vented, and attempts at venting may cause damage to fish by improper venting and increased handling times. Finally, the current requirement interferes with using other devices such as fish descenders. These devices can be used by fishermen to return fish back to depth. Because of these factors, the Council recommended the venting tool requirement be rescinded.
