As the recreational fishing season gets going, NOAA Fisheries and their Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office (GARFO) reminds saltwater anglers about the current reporting requirements for all those who fish for tilefish.
For-hire (party and charter) vessels that hold federal permits for species managed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council must submit their Vessel Trip Reports (VTR) electronically. Vessels issued only a Northeast multispecies (groundfish) charter/party permit may report on paper or electronic VTRs, until later this fall when e-VTRs will be required. You are encouraged to start reporting electronically as soon as possible.
As for tilefish anglers on private vessels, you must submit your VTRs electronically for trips targeting or catching golden and blueline tilefish. All fishermen can choose from several smart devices and web-based apps to report electronically.
For more information visit the GARFO website at www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/greater-atlantic-regional-fisheries-office.
