[614673]

No, the coastwide regulations HAVE been changed by ASMFC/MAFMC to 11.5" minimum size, no closed season.

Of course, it is up to each state to quickly change their own state laws and regulations. New Jersey apparently already has. If there are any states that haven't, I suspect they don't "enforce" their leftover closure regs from 2001.

I'd doublecheck by calling NJ Fish and Wildlife if you are especially concerned, but the coastwide regs are what the Jamaica says they are.

 

[614673]

Ok, it's definately official, and on a NJ web site:

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/news/2002/seabass.htm

CHANGE IN BLACK SEA BASS RECREATIONAL SIZE LIMIT AND FISHING SEASON
For more information contact:
Al Ivany at 609-292-2084
According to the Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Fish and Wildlife, rules for the recreational harvest of black sea bass in New Jersey waters have changed. The recent modifications are the result of efforts to keep New Jersey in compliance with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's management plan for the species.

"The new rules are aimed at providing adequate protection to black sea bass stocks while at the same time allowing New Jersey's saltwater recreational anglers to participate to the fullest extent possible in the fishery," said Division Director Bob McDowell.

Effective immediately, the recreational size limit for black sea bass has increased from 11" to 11½" with the possession limit remaining at 25 fish. In addition, the previous recreational black sea bass fishing season of May 10 through February 29 has been eliminated so that fishing is now allowed year-round.

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