August 27, 2001

Preliminary halibut catch estimates for the August 17 opening all-depth recreational halibut fishery between Cape Falcon and Humbug Mountain on the central Oregon coast indicate that about 24,000 pounds are available for harvest. Accordingly, the all-depth recreational fishery will reopen for fishing on September 21-22, 2001.

The August 22 non-treaty commercial fishing period in Area 2A resulted in very few landings with low catches. A revised estimate of the directed commercial catch limit that remains is 16,000 pounds.

Area 2A will reopen on September 5 for 10 hours from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time. The fishery is restricted to waters that are south of Point Chehalis, Washington (46^o53’18"N. latitude) under regulations promulgated by National Marine Fisheries Service. Fishing period limits as indicated in the following table will be in effect for this opening.

*Weights are after 2% has been deducted for ice and slime if fish are not washed prior to weighing.

The appropriate vessel length class and letter are printed on each halibut license.

The fishing period limit is shown in terms of dressed, head-off weight as well as dressed, head-on weight, although fishermen are reminded that regulations require that all halibut from Area 2A be landed with the head on.