What/When/Why:
- Federal waters of the Gulf will be open to greater amberjack recreational harvest from September 1, 2026, to 12:01 a.m., local time, October 14, 2026.
- This results in a 43-day recreational fishing season for Gulf greater amberjack, up from 26 days in 2025.
- The current recreational bag/possession limit is 1 fish per person/per day.
- The current minimum size limit is 34 inches fork length.
- Greater amberjack recreational harvest will be closed from October 14, 2026 until the 2027/2028 fishing season begins on September 1, 2027.
Why This Is Happening:
- The 2026/2027 annual catch limit is 404,000 lb and the annual catch target is 335,320 lb.
- In accordance with the regulations, NOAA Fisheries closes harvest when the recreational annual catch target has been met or is projected to be met.
- Based on available recreational landings, NOAA Fisheries has projected the recreational annual catch target will be met on October 14.
- This action is necessary to protect the Gulf greater amberjack population. This population is currently considered overfished (the population size is too low).
During The Closure:
- During the recreational closure, the bag and possession limits are zero for greater amberjack in or from federal waters of the Gulf.
- The prohibition on possession of greater amberjack also applies in Gulf state waters for a vessel issued a valid federal charter vessel/headboat permit for Gulf reef fish.
This bulletin provides only a summary of the existing regulations. Full regulations can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations at 50 CFR part 622 or at https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-50/chapter-VI/part-622/subpart-B/.