Md. Code Regs. 08.02.05.26

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 12, June 14, 2024

Section 08.02.05.26 - Billfish

A. In this regulation, "billfish" means the following species:

(1) Atlantic Blue Marlin (Makaira nigricans);

(2) Atlantic White Marlin (Kajikia albidus);

(3) Atlantic Sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus); and

(4) Roundscale Spearfish (Tetrapturus georgii).

B. A person may not catch, possess, or land billfish when the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration closes the fishery in accordance with 50 CFR 635.

C. A person may not catch, possess, or land billfish in violation of the:

(1) Catch limit established in 50 CFR 635 ; and

(2) Size specifications established in 50 CFR 635.

D. Before removing a landed billfish caught for recreational purposes from a boat or removing a boat containing a billfish from the water, a person shall:

(1) Immediately report to a reporting station designated by the Department;

(2) Complete a catch information form provided by the reporting station; and

(3) Affix a tail tag, provided by the reporting station, to the billfish.

E. A person that lands a billfish may eviscerate the billfish but it shall otherwise be maintained whole with its head, fins, and bill intact through offloading.

Md. Code Regs. 08.02.05.26

Regulation .26 adopted as an emergency provision effective June 1, 2003 (30:13 Md. R. 850); adopted permanently effective September 29, 2003 (30:19 Md. R. 1329)
Regulation .26A amended effective March 4, 2013 (40:4 Md. R. 344)