***Important Tournament Information***
I met with two special agents with the United States Department of Commerce National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration recently regarding the law on Highly Migratory Species (HMS) including Blue Marlin and Yellow Fin Tuna. They want to be sure that the tournament and entrants are in compliance with the National Marine Fisheries laws. I feel it is my responsibility to ensure that everyone that enters the Texas Deep Sea Rodeo will be aware of some very important information regarding the fish that fall under this category as they relate to the tournament.
It is required by federal law that boat owners posses a Federal Fisheries Permit when fishing for the various fish that fall in the Highly Migratory Species category. The Atlantic HMS Angling permit should cover most recreational anglers. The cost for this permit is $28 per boat. There is a separate permit for charter boats. A link to purchase these permits can be found on our web site along with some other helpful information. Be sure to purchase your permit prior to signing up for the rodeo if you plan to fish for any of the species that fall into this category. If purchased now the permit is valid until December 31, 2008. The fines for not having the permit can be quite expensive and embarrassing. Federal officers will be present at the Captains Meeting to address the issues and at the weigh-in to ensure compliance. They will also be checking for charter/headboat permits for all boats running a charter during the tournament. This fine is VERY costly. I would also assume that state officials will be present to enforce all state laws as well. Please be aware of current state and federal laws prior to leaving the dock. The tournament will be in full compliance as should all anglers. It will be a great tournament and it would be a shame to see it tainted by someone receiving a fine. Please get your proper permits to avoid costly fines. They won’t go bad and will last you for the rest of the calendar year.
www.hmspermits.noaa.gov/initialapp.asp
Thank you, Carl Christoph
Other Useful Links
www.gulfcouncil.org/Beta/GMFMCWeb/downloads/recbrochure2008web.pdf
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/annual/fish/limits_saltwater/index.phtml#limits