Based on dealer reports, MarineFisheries has projected the total quota (1,140,807-lbs.) for the 2006 commercial striped bass fishery will be reached on Thursday, August 24, 2006. Fishermen may catch and land striped bass through August 24th, but are prohibited from landing fish for commercial purposes as of 00:01 hours on Friday, August 25, 2006 until the 2007 fishery opens, in July of 2007.

Dealers are reminded that all striped bass imported into Massachusetts shall meet or exceed 34” through August 29th. After August 29th all striped bass imported into Massachusetts must be tagged designating the state of origin and shall meet or exceed the minimum size in place for the state of origin.

Commercial fishermen are reminded that a 2006 striped bass catch report is due by October 15, 2006, 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. Failure to submit a timely 2006 striped bass catch report may result in the non-renewal of a striped bass endorsement for 2007. Blank forms and instructions were mailed out at the beginning of the 2006 striped bass season, but additional forms can be obtained from the catch report page on the MarineFisheries web site.