July 5, 2006

2006 HALIBUT LANDING REPORT NO. 4

Non-treaty Commercial Fishing Period Limits in Area 2A for the July 12 Opening

The June 28 non-treaty commercial fishing period in Area 2A resulted in a catch of about 78,000 pounds, leaving 156,960 pounds in the catch limit.

Area 2A will reopen on July 12 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°53’18” N. latitude) under regulations promulgated by National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). 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 vessel license.

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

The fishing period limit applies to the vessel, not the individual fisher, and any landings over the vessel limit will be subject to forfeiture and fine.

In 2006, NMFS implemented mandatory depth-based area closures that are in effect for the directed halibut fishery to protect specific rockfish species. NMFS has mailed information on the closures to license holders.  For further information, call the NMFS hotline at 1-800-662-9825, then press "5" for the halibut fisheries.

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