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(from Jersey Coast Anglers Association March 1994 Newsletter)
By Gary Caputi
The National Marine Fisheries Service announced on March 17 that as of May 15, 1994, it will require that all private vessels must possess and carry on board an "Angling Category Permit" to catch and retain Atlantic Bluefin Tuna between 26 and 70 inches in length. Charter and party vessels that fish for this size bluefin tuna have been required to possess an "Angling Category Permit" since September 15, 1993. This permit authorizes anglers on private and charter/party vessels to catch and land school, large school and small medium size class bluefin within established quotas and daily trip, bag and vessel limits.
To apply, you will need an application, which is available by calling 1-800-231-2628 or wait until the April issue of this newsletter, when a copy of the permit application will be included for your use. Please note that you must have the permit if you plan on trying for spring run bluefin by May 15. Also note that fees for this permit have been waived by NMFS for 1994, but they are planning to institute a fee for permit procedure in 1995. If you feel this fee is going to be just the beginning of a bunch of recreational fishing permit fees, like I do, voice your strong opposition to charging for permits on your application and by calling the NMFS and your local Congressmen and Senator.