This month, several boats have been inspected by law enforcement. Safety equipment is first priority, but a new license is what many officers are looking for. If fishing in federal waters (outside 9 miles), anglers must possess an Atlantic highly migratory species permit to keep tuna, sharks or billfish. All charter boats must possess charter/head boat Atlantic HMS permits, and all recreational anglers are required to have recreational Atlantic HMS permits. Fees are $22. This particular permit allows anglers to catch all types of tuna in the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. The only species we come across in the gulf are blackfin and yellowfin tuna.
You can apply for a permit online at www.nmfspermits.com For information on the permit or to have an application mailed to you, call 1-888-872-8862. The law went into effect last year but has not been enforced until now. Fines for possessing one of these three pelagic fish in federal waters can exceed $1,500. My advice is to not go tuna fishing without it.
Large spinner sharks and blackfin tuna have been being taken off the shrimp boats southwest of John's Pass about 30-40 miles from shore. After crossing the shipping fairway, start looking for the boats. They will anchor a good ways from the ship traffic during the day. Radar helps find the boats even better than eyesight.
- Dave Mistretta captains the Jaws Too out of Indian Rocks Beach. Call 727 595-3276, or e-mail sales@jawstoo.com
