Suspected Illegal Fishing Prompts Reminder
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a reminder that “critical zones for Black Grouper aggregation remain closed to fishing until December 1, 2024,” with the reminder following “recent incidents where three commercial fishers are suspected of illegally fishing within these seasonally protected areas.”
A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Home Affairs reminds all commercial and recreational fishers that the “Grouper Boxes”—critical zones for Black Grouper aggregations—remain closed to fishing until December 1, 2024.
“The Grouper Boxes, labelled “Extended Closure Areas” on the accompanying maps [attached], remain off-limits for fishing to protect the Black Grouper aggregations. While fishing around Red Hind aggregation areas resumed in August, it is essential to note that Black Grouper areas require a more extended closure period due to this species’ longer reproductive season.
“This reminder follows recent incidents where three commercial fishers are suspected of illegally fishing within these seasonally protected areas. These matters are currently under investigation, and it is anticipated that the individuals will be brought before the courts.
“The Ministry is pleased to advise that equipment provided by the UK Marine Management Organisation [MMO] under the Blue Belt Ocean Shield Programme has bolstered enforcement efforts and contributed to these interceptions, which were made by the Coast Guard and the Marine Enforcement section of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources [DENR], with assistance from DENR’s Marine Resources Section and the Department of Marine & Ports Services’ MAROPS [Bermuda Radio].
“For more information about fisheries regulations, please contact the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Marine Resources Section, at 293-5600 or email fisheries@gov.bm.”
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