NOAA Fisheries Announces 2018 Recreational Rules for Summer Flounder, Black Sea Bass, and Scup

NOAA Fisheries announces management measures for the 2018 summer flounder, black sea bass, and scup recreational fisheries.

We are continuing "conservation equivalency" for the summer flounder fishery. This means we have waived the federal recreational bag limit, minimum fish size, and fishing season, and fishermen are subject to regulations in the state where they land. Please contact your state for information on summer flounder rules.

We are implementing the following recreational black sea bass measures in federal waters:

• 12.5-inch total length minimum fish size
• Possession limit of 15 fish per person per trip
• Open season from May 15-December 31 (please note: there is no longer a closure period from September 22-October 21)

The scup recreational fishery measures are the same as 2017:

• 9-inch total length minimum size
• Possession limit of 50 fish per person per trip
• Open all year

Please keep in mind that if the federal minimum size, possession limit, and/or season differ from the regulations for the state in which you will landing, you must follow the more restrictive regulations.

Boaters Use Caution: Recent Rains Cause High River Levels

RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) would like to advise recreational boaters to use extreme caution this week as unstable weather systems are leading to flash flooding in many areas.

Over the past several days, many areas of Virginia have received significant amounts of rainfall. Not only is the ground saturated, but the rivers are at treacherously high levels. Navigating rivers in these conditions can be hazardous due to significantly higher than normal water levels and trash and other debris that could be floating on the surface or just below the waterline.

If you are a canoer, kayaker or other recreational boater and chose to launch on any river, we are making the following recommendations:

• We strongly urge you to think before you go. Always check local river conditions.
• Check your local forecast. Pop-up storms can cause flash flooding and water levels can change drastically and quickly.
• Be aware that it is possible that high water will force the temporary closing of some boat ramps.
• Have a good plan and share your plan with someone who knows where you will be and when to expect you to return.
• Finally, make sure you have the proper equipment onboard and that you wear a properly sized and fitted life jacket. Remember that life jackets do save lives!

PLEASE DO NOT DISREGARD SAFETY MESSAGES. THEY ARE THERE TO PROTECT YOU!