Based on dealer reports, MarineFisheries has projected the total quota (1,094,962 lbs.) for the 2005 commercial striped bass fishery will be reached by Thursday, August 18, 2005. Fishermen may catch and land striped bass on Wednesday, August 17th, but are prohibited from landing fish for commercial purposes as of 00:01 hours on Thursday August 18, 2005 until the 2006 fishery opens, scheduled for July of 2006.

Authorized dealers may possess or sell striped bass purchased from MA commercial fisherman for only an additional five days through Tuesday, August 23, 2005. Dealers are reminded that all striped bass imported into Massachusetts shall continue to meet or exceed 34” through Tuesday, August 23, 2005. Beginning Wednesday, August 24th until the beginning of the 2006 fishery, all striped bass imported into Massachusetts shall meet or exceed the minimum size in place for the state of origin.

Commercial fishermen are reminded that a 2005 striped bass catch report is due by October 15, 2005, even if the permit was not fished. These reports should be sent to DMF Statistics Project, 30 Emerson Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930. Please ensure that a catch report is received by MarineFisheries no later than the deadline as failure to submit a timely 2005 striped bass catch report may result in the non-renewal of a striped bass endorsement for 2006. Blank forms and instructions were mailed out at the beginning of the 2005 striped bass season, but additional forms as well as quota totals by week can be obtained from the MarineFisheries web site at www.mass.gov/marinefisheries.