This notice replaces a previous notice that announced an incorrect closure date for the commercial striped bass fishery. Fishermen may catch and land striped bass through Wednesday, August 15th, but are prohibited from landing fish for commercial purposes as of 00:01 hours on Thursday, August 16, 2007 until the 2008 fishery opens, in July of 2008. MarineFisheries apologizes for any confusion.

Dealers are reminded that all striped bass imported into Massachusetts shall meet or exceed 34” through August 20th. After August 20th 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 2007 striped bass catch report is due by October 15, 2007, 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 2007 striped bass catch report may result in the non-renewal of a striped bass endorsement for 2008. Blank forms and instructions were mailed out at the beginning of the 2007 striped bass season, but additional forms can be obtained from the MarineFisheries web site at http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dmf/commercialfishing/cr_striped_bass_2007.pdf.

For further information please contact MarineFisheries at 617.626.1520.