Archive of Yearly Regulation Amendments

Rhode Island Marine Fisheries Regulations

Minimum Sizes and Possession Limits

If you have questions, contact Pete Duhamel at 401-423-1927 or peter.duhamel@dem.ri.gov

2023

12/19/2023
AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Please be advised that amendments to the following rules have been filed resulting from the public hearing held on November 6^th and RI Marine Fisheries Council meeting held on December 4^th (effective date January 8, 2024):

11/15/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be seven thousand five hundred (7,500) pounds per vessel per day until further notice, or until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice, or until the next sub period begins on January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

11/15/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Friday, November 17, 2023, the commercial Tautog fishery will close until the next sub-period begins on April 1, 2024 at ten (10) fish per vessel per day;

11/10/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday, November 16, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish fishery will remain at ten thousand (10,000) pounds per vessel per week until further notice;
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, November 12, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be five thousand (5,000) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub period begins on January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

11/9/2023
AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 2 – Commercial Marine Fishing Licenses, Landing Permits, and Party and Charter Licenses (effective Jan. 1, 2024):
- Added “marine species other than shellfish and crustacean” to the Unlimited and Limited Finfish endorsement to provide for the commercial harvest and sale of marine species other than finfish, shellfish, and crustacean; e.g., kelp
- Deleted fee for Standard Resident License with three (3) unlimited fishery endorsements (license no longer available since licensing restructure)
- Specified that the Mid-Water/Pair Trawl Endorsement Division is not available for issuance while midwater trawling is prohibited in state waters
- Amended the exit:entry ratio for the issuance of a Standard license with Unlimited Finfish endorsement from 1:1 to 2:1, resulting in the availability of eighteen (18) endorsements for 2024
- Amended the exit:entry ratio for the issuance of a Standard license with Unlimited Shellfish endorsement from 1:1 to 3:1, resulting in the availability of forty-six (46) endorsements for 2024
- Rule amended to provide for the issuance of fifteen (15) Multipurpose Vessel Licenses with additional eligibility restrictions (additional details provided in the Director’s decision memo and the final rule)
Part 7 – Dealers (effective Nov. 20, 2023):
- Rule amended to specify that tautog cannot be sold, purchased, bartered, or traded in Rhode Island unless a tautog tag issued by the Director has been affixed to the left opercula bone with the tag number displayed, consistent with harvester tautog tagging requirements
- Rule amended to delete summer flounder packaging requirements
- Rule amended to delete rule that striped bass may not be purchased and/or offered for sale if the entire right pectoral fin has been removed. With new recreational slot limit recently adopted there is no longer an overlap and the rule is no longer needed

11/3/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close until further notice; the Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants will close until further notice.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, November 5, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be one thousand (1000) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub period begins on January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

10/27/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 29, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day until further notice; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants will be at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of fifty (50) pounds) until further notice.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 29, 2023, the possession limit for Bluefish will be ten thousand (10,000) pounds per vessel per week until further notice or until the next sub-period begins November 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week.

10/6/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 8, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice or until the next sub-period begins October 16, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants will be at one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of two hundred (200) pounds) until further notice or until the next sub-period begins October 16 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 8, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub period begins on January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

10/4/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 8, 2023, the possession limit for Bluefish will be eight thousand (8,000) pounds per vessel per week until further notice, or until the next sub-period begins November 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week.

9/29/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 1, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category and Scup Floating Fish Traps will be thirteen thousand five hundred (13,500) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice or the next sub-period begins January 1, 2025 at fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day. This change is due to recent changes in federal possession limits.

9/22/2023
AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Please be advised that the Division of Marine Fisheries has filed the regulations “Part 3 – Finfish” via Direct Final Amendment to adopt changes for recreational cod and recreational striped bass management. Please see the attached rule summary for details, or click on the link to the rule provided above. The effective date for these rule changes was September 14, 2023.

9/5/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Saturday, September 16, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per day until further notice, or until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or the next sub-period begins January 1, 2024 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

9/5/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Friday, September 8, 2023, the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day; the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants will close until the next sub-period begins September 16 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week.

9/1/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, September 3, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants will be at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of hundred fifty (50) pounds) until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week.

8/29/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday, August 31, 2023, the commercial Tautog fishery will close; until the next sub-period begins October 15, 2023 at ten (10) fish per vessel per day.

8/25/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, August 27, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred fifty (150) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants will be at seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of one hundred fifty (150) pounds) until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week

8/4/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants will remain at one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of two hundred (200) pounds) until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, August 13, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be one thousand five hundred (1,500) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice.

8/4/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, August 6, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins August 16, 2023 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants is one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of two hundred (200) pounds) until further notice or until the next sub-period begins August 16 at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week

7/21/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, July 23, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, July 23, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or until the next sub-period begins August 16 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants is five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of one hundred (100) pounds) until further notice or until the next sub-period begins August 16 at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week.

7/14/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close; until the next sub-period begins May 29, 2024 at five (5) fish per vessel per day, with weekly fishery closures on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

6/16/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, June 26, 2023, the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will close; until the next sub-period begins April 1, 2024 at an unlimited possession limit.

6/16/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, June 18, 2023, the possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be six hundred (600) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day until further notice.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, June 18, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day until further notice or the next sub-period begins July 1 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day; the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants is five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of one hundred (100) pounds) until further notice or the next sub-period begins July 1 at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week.

6/16/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, June 18, 2023, the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will re-open at five hundred (500) pounds per fish trap licensee per day until further notice

6/9/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will close; until the next sub-period begins April 1, 2024 at an unlimited possession limit;

6/8/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close; until the next sub-period begins July 6, 2023 at five (5) fish per vessel per day, with weekly fishery closures on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

6/1/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, June 4, 2023, the possession limit for the Summer Flounder with those vessels with a summer flounder exemption certificate will be four hundred (400) pounds per vessel per day; until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for those without a summer flounder exemption certificate remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, June 4, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be seventy-five (75) pounds per vessel per day; until the next sub-period begins July 1 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;
Beginning 12:00AM om Sunday, June 4, 2023, the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants is three hundred seventy five (375) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of seventy five (75) pounds) until the next sub-period begins July 1 at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week;

5/30/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday, June 1, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will be five hundred (500) pounds per fish trap licensee per day; until further notice.

5/22/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Friday, May 26, 2023, the commercial Tautog fishery will close; until the next sub-period begins August 1, 2023 at 10 fish per vessel per day.

5/1/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, the possession limit for the Scup General Category will be ten thousand (10,000) pounds per vessel per week; until the next sub-period begins October 1, 2023 at two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per day.

4/28/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 1, 2023, the Winter I Aggregate Program for Summer Flounder will close; until further notice.
Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 1, 2023, the possession limit for the Summer Flounder with those vessels with a summer flounder exemption certificate will be three hundred (300) pounds per vessel per day; until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 1, 2023, the possession limit for the Summer Flounder with those vessels without a summer flounder exemption certificate will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day; until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2023 at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 1, 2023, the possession limit for the Black Sea Bass will be fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day; until the next sub period begins on July 1, 2023 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM om Monday, May 1, 2023, the possession limit for Black Sea Bass for permitted Summer/Fall Aggregate Program participants is two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week (equal to five (5) times the daily limit of fifty (50) pounds).
Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 1, 2023, the possession limit for the Scup General Category will be unlimited pounds per vessel per day; until the next sub period begins on October 1, 2023 at two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 1, 2023, the possession limit for the Scup Floating Fish Trap will be unlimited pounds per vessel per day; until the next sub period begins on October 1, 2023 at two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 1, 2023, the possession limit for the Bluefish will be six thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per week; until the next sub period begins on November 16, 2023 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week.

4/21/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, April 23, 2023, the possession limit for the Summer flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be three thousand (3,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week (permitted vessels only); until further notice.

4/12/2023
AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 1 – Definitions and General Provisions: Addition, removal, and amendment to terms in Definition of Terms section consistent with terms as found in RI General Laws Chapter 20-2.1; addition of species to Common Species section consistent with regulations Part 3 “Finfish”; other minor non-substantive changes and clarifications
Part 3 - Finfish:
- 2023 recreational black sea bass management
- 2023 recreational scup management
- 2023 commercial striped bass general category management
- Removal of section for the Winter I Aggregate Program (moved to newly adopted Part 23 only, no changes to program made – see below)
- Other minor non-substantive changes
Part 4 – Shellfish: 2023 shellfish harvest schedule for the Providence River Shellfish Management Area
Part 7 – Dealers: Change to frequency of required dealer reporting of striped bass landings
Part 23 - Aggregate Program for Summer Flounder and Black Sea Bass: Includes Winter I Aggregate Program (Jan. 1 – April 30) for Summer Flounder and new Summer/Fall Aggregate program (May 1 – December 31) for Black Sea Bass

The effective date for these rule changes in May 1, 2023.

Please note that proposed amendments to Part 12 - Research Pilot Aggregate Program and Part 14 – Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate Program did not move forward (i.e., no amendments were made). Part 12 remains expired with anticipated repeal at a later date.

3/24/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, March 26, 2023, the possession limit for the Summer flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be eight thousand five hundred (8,500) pounds per vessel per bi-week (permitted vessels only); until further notice
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, March 26, 2023, the possession limit for the Black Sea Bass will be seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per week; until the next sub period begins on May 1, 2023 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day

2/10/2023
POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, February 12, 2023, the possession limit for the Summer flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be six thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week (permitted vessels only); until further notice

2022

12/30/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Black sea bass will be five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2023 @ fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category will be fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2023 @ unlimited possession limit.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Scup floating fish traps will be fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2023 @ unlimited possession limit.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial Striped bass General Category fishery will remain closed until the next sub-period opens on June 1, 2023 @ 5 fish per vessel per day.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial Striped bass floating fish traps fishery will remain closed, until the next sub-period opens on April 1, 2023 @ unlimited possession limit.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Summer flounder will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2023 @ two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day for those without a summer flounder exemption certificate, and three hundred (300) pounds per vessel per day for those with a summer flounder exemption certificate.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the possession limit for the Summer flounder Aggregate Landing program will be four thousand (4,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week (permitted vessels only).
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2023 @ six thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per week.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Menhaden Management Areas will remain closed until further notice.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial Menhaden fishery in state waters outside the Menhaden Management Area will remain at 120,000 pounds per vessel per day until further notice.
Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 1, 2023, the commercial Tautog fishery will remain closed, until the next sub-period opens on April 1, 2023 @ 10 fish per vessel per day.

12/13/2022

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 3 – Finfish:

2023 Commercial Black Sea Bass Management: Amended starting sub-period possession limits.
2023 Commercial Scup Management: Amended starting possession limit for the general category sector for the summer sub-period (5/1 - 9/30).
2023 Commercial Summer Flounder Management: Amended starting sub-period possession limits
Recreational Striped Bass Gaffing Prohibition: Adopted a new rule which prohibits the gaffing of striped bass when fishing recreationally.
Spanish Mackerel: Adopted a new rule which establishes new de minimis rules for both commercial and recreational fisheries

Part 5 – Lobsters, Crabs, and Other Crustaceans: Proposed amendment to the valid dates of lobster trap tags was not adopted (status quo maintained).
Part 14 – Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate Program: Amended the rule to establish new provisions allowing for and governing the transfer of exemption certificates that are in Confirmation of Certificate Status (CCS).

11/28/2022

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 2: Commercial Marine Fishing Licenses, Landing Permits, and Party and Charter Licenses;

Exit:entry ratio for the Unlimited Finfish endorsement changed from 1:2 to 1:1 (section 2.7.4(C)(4)(a));
Maintained 1:1 exit:entry ratio for the Unlimited Shellfish endorsement (no change to rule) (section 2.7.4(C)(4)(b));
No Multipurpose Vessel License are to be issued prior to January 1, 2024 (section 2.7.4(C)(2)(e));
Other more minor changes throughout rule (as noticed)

11/25/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, November 27, 2022, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one thousand five hundred (1,500) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

For Pilot Aggregate Program participants, this possession limit change corresponds to ten thousand five hundred (10,500) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice.

11/15/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Friday, December 16, 2022, the commercial Cobia fishery will close, until the next period begins January 1, 2023 at two (2) fish per vessel per day.

11/15/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will remain at six thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2023 at one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week.

11/10/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, November 13, 2022, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2023 at seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per week. For pilot aggregate program participants, the possession limit corresponds to five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week.

2) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, November 13, 2022, the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins April 1, 2023 at 10 fish per vessel per day.

10/21/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00 A.M. on Monday, October 24, 2022 the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Menhaden Management Area will CLOSE as a result of the biomass dropping below the 1.5 million pound threshold. The commercial possession limit in State waters outside the Menhaden Management Area will remain open at 120,000 pounds/vessel/day. Please refer to the commercial menhaden regulations (Part 3 - Finfish, section 3.24.2) for more information, or contact Nicole Lengyel Costa at 401-423-1940.

10/13/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 16, 2022, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2023 at seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per week. For pilot aggregate program participants, this possession limit remains at one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week

10/7/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, October 9, 2022, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins October 15, 2022 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day. For pilot aggregate program participants, this possession limit change corresponds to one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week

9/30/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Saturday, October 1, 2022, the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category and Floating Fish Traps will be twenty-four thousand pounds (24,000) per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2023 at fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day;

9/29/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Saturday, October 1, 2022, the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category and Floating Fish Traps will be twelve thousand pounds (12,000) per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2023 at fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday October 2, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins October 16, 2022 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day. For Pilot Aggregate Participants, this possession limit change corresponds to five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

8/26/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday September 16, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at eight hundred (800) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2023 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2023 at one (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For pilot aggregate program participants, the possession limit change corresponds to five thousand six-hundred (5,600) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday September 16, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins October 15, 2022 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day. For Pilot Aggregate Participants, this possession limit change corresponds to five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

8/26/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday August 28, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one-hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2022 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day. For Pilot Aggregate Participants, this possession limit change corresponds to five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday August 28, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder fishery will be eight hundred (800) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per veseel per day, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at one (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For pilot aggregate program participants, the possession limit change corresponds to Five thousand six-hundred (5,600) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins at seven hundred (700) pounds per vessel per week;

8/25/2022

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 3: Finfish (effective date August 18, 2022);

8/19/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday August 21, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be seventy-five (75) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2022 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day. For Pilot Aggregate Participants, this possession limit change corresponds to three hundred seventy-five (375) pounds per vessel per week until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week;

8/12/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday August 14, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder fishery will be six hundred (600) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per veseel per day, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at one (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For pilot aggregate program participants, the possession limit change corresponds to four-thousand two-hundred (4,200) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins at seven hundred (700) pounds per vessel per week;

8/9/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00 A.M. on Tuesday, August 9, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Menhaden Inside the Menhaden Management Area will be one-hundred twenty-thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice; the commercial possession limit for Menhaden in state waters outside the Menhaden Management Area remains at one-hundred twenty-thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice.

The opening of the Menhaden Management Area is based on DMF estimating that the weekly menhaden biomass has exceeded the biomass floor of 2 million pounds. Biomass estimates are updated twice per week; if at any time the biomass is estimated to drop below 1.5 million pounds, or the commercial biomass ceiling is projected to be harvested, or the states commercial quota has been projected to be harvested, the commercial fishery may close. Please refer to the commercial menhaden regulations (Part 3 - Finfish, section 3.24.2) for more information, or contact Nicole Lengyel Costa at 401-423-1940.

7/22/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday July 24, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder fishery will be four hundred (400) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per veseel per day, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at one (100) pounds per vessel per day;

For pilot aggregate program participants, the possession limit change corresponds to two-thousdan eight hundred (2,800) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins at seven hundred (700) pounds per vessel per week;

7/15/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday July 11, 2022 the commercial Scup General Category will be twenty-thousand (20,000) pounds per vessel per week until further notice;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday July 11, 2022 the commercial Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins August 16, 2022 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day. For Pilot Aggregate Participants, this possession limit change corresponds to five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week until the next sub-period begins on August 16, 2022 at two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per week;

7/6/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday July 11, 2022 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close until the fishery re-opens on June 1, 2023 at 5 fish per vessel per day, with weekly closures on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays;

7/1/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday July 3, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two hundred pounds (200) per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2022 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

6/15/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday June 20, 2022 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close until the fishery re-opens on July 6, 2022 at 5 fish per vessel per day, with weekly closures on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays;

6/1/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday June 3, 2022 the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will close until the fishery re-opens on April 1, 2023 at an unlimited possession limit;

5/27/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday May 29, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred pounds (100) per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on July 1, 2022 at seventy-five (75) pounds per vessel per day;

5/24/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday May 26, 2022 the commercial Tautog fishery will close until the fishery re-opens on August 1, 2022 at 10 fish per vessel per day;

5/18/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Saturday May 21, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap will be five hundred pounds (500) per fish trap licensee per day, until further notice.;

5/13/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday May 16, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Menhaden inside the Menhdaen Management Area will be one-hundred-twenty thousand pounds (120,000) per vessel per day, until Tuesday May 17, 2022;

5/5/2022

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 2: Commercial Marine Fishing Licenses, Landing Permits, and Party and Charter Licenses (effective date July 1, 2022);

5/3/2022

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 4: Shellfish (effective date May 22, 2022);

4/28/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday May 1, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Spiny Dogfish will be seven- thousand five-hundred (7,500) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

4/11/2022

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 3: Finfish (effective date May 1, 2022);

4/8/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday April 10, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2022 at seventy-five pounds per vessel per day;

3/24/2022

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 12: Research Pilot Aggregate Program (effective date April 13, 2022);

2.) Part 14: Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate Program (effective date April 13, 2022);

3/11/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday March 13, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be six thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the program closes on April 30, 2022.

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday March 13, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one-thousand five-hundred (1,500) pounds per vessel per week, until tfurther notice;

2/25/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday February 27, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be four thousand (4,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the program closes on April 30, 2022.

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday February 27, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

1/28/2022

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday January 30, 2022 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be three thousand (3,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the program closes on April 30, 2022.

2021

12/28/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday December 30, 2021 the commercial Summer Flounder will close, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

12/17/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, December 19, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be three thousand five hundred (3,500) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, December 19, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2022 at seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per week;

12/15/2021

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 3: Amended commercial black sea bass management for 2022; adoption of cobia management (effective date January 1, 2022);

2.) Part 14: Program amendments (effective date January 1, 2022);

12/14/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, December 16, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day;

12/8/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, December 10, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, December 10, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2022 at seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per week;

11/24/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 28, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be six hundred (600) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

11/18/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Saturday, November 20, 2021 the commercial tautog will close, until the next sub-period begins on April 1, 2022 at ten (10) fish per vessel per day;

11/15/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will remain at six-thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per week, until the further notice;

10/25/2021

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 2: Amended exit:entry ratio for the Restricted Finfish endorsement from 1:1 to 1:2 (effective date January 1, 2022);

2.) Part 4: December 2021 harvest schedules for Greenwich Bay, Bissel Cove/Fox Island, and Providence River Shellfish Management Areas (effective date November 9, 2021);

3.) Part 6: Floating fish trap permit issuance process (effective date November 8, 2021);

10/20/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, October 22, 2021 the commercial Menhaden fishery in waters outside of the Menhaden Management Area will open at one-hundred twenty thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day. Beginning 12:00AM on Monday October 25,2021 the fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2022 at one-hundred twenty thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday October 24, 2021 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on November 1, 2021 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day

10/15/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, October 19, 2021 the commercial Menhaden fishery in waters outside of the Menhaden Management Area will close, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2022 at one-hundred twenty thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day;

10/13/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, October 17, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be four hundred (400) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

9/292021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, October 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category and Floating Fish Traps will be twenty-one thousand pounds (21,000) per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel until the next sub period begins on January 1, 2022 at 50,000 pounds per vessel per day.

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday, October 4, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Striped Bass General Category will be five (5) fish per vessel per day, until further notice. Please be reminded that the general category is closed on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays. Striped bass floating fish traps remains open, unlimited possession limit.

9/14/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, September 16, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2022 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

9/5/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, September 5, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

8/19/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, August 19, 2021 the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on October 15, 2021 at ten (10) fish per vessel per day;

8/13/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 15, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be three hundred (300) pounds per vessel per day for vessels with a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day.

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 15, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category will be twenty thousand (20,000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins October 1, 2021 at two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per day;

7/30/2021

MANAGEMENT SEASON MODIFICATION

Due to water quality closures in the Providence River shellfish management area during the open season the predetermined alternate dates will now be open to harvest, notwithstanding closures due to water quality impairment. The following dates will be open to harvest from 8:00AM to 11:00AM;

August: 6, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 30 and September 1 and 3 in 2021;

7/29/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 1, 2021 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on August 16, 2021 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;

7/15/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, July 18, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins August 16, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, July 18, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder fwill be one hundred fifty (150) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

7/6/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, July 9, 2021 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close, until further notice;

6/25/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, June 27, 2021 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins July 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

6/18/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, June 20, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins July 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, June 23, 2021 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins July 1, 2021 at 5 fish per vessel per day, the fishery will be closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the sub-period.

6/7/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Menhaden Management Area will close as a result of the harvest cap being fully harvested. State waters outside the Menhaden Management Area will remain open at 120,000 pounds/vessel/day due to the states participation in the ASMFC Episoidc Event Set Aside (ESA) Program. While the state is participating the in ESA, all fish must be harvested exclusively from RI state waters.

5/18/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, May 20, 2021 the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins August 1, 2021 at 10 fish per vessel per day

4/15/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday, May 17, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Menhaden Inside the Menhaden Management Area will be one-hundred twenty-thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice; the commercial possession limit for Menhaden in state waters outside the Menhaden Management Area remains at one-hundred twenty-thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

The opening of the Menhaden Management Area is based on DMF estimating that the weekly menhaden biomass has exceeded the biomass floor of 2 million pounds. Biomass estimates are updated twice per week and if at any time the biomass is estimated to drop below 1.5 million pounds, or the commercial biomass ceiling is projected to be harvested, or the states commercial quota has been projected to be harvested, the commercial fishery may close with 48 hours' notice. please see the commercial menhaden regulations (Part 3 section 3.22.2) for more information, or contact Nicole Lengyel Costa at 401-423-1940.

4/23/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, April 25, 2021 the commercial Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will close, as the 90% harvest trigger will be met. The possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day

4/22/2021

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 3: Finfish (effective April 22,2021);

4/20/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, April 22, 2021 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day

4/9/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, April 11, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day

3/23/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Large Coastal Aggregated Sharks will be fifty-five (55) sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Hammerhead Sharks will be fifty-five (55) sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

3/12/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, March 14, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be four thousand five hundred (4,500) pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the program closes on April 30, 2021;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, March 14, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day;

2/26/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, February 28, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be four thousand (4,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the program closes on April 30, 2021;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, February 28, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one thousand five hundred (1,500) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day;

1/9/2021

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, February 14, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be three thousand (3000) pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the program closes on April 30, 2021;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, February 14, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one thousand (1000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day;

2020

12/29/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be seven hundred fifty (750) pounds per vessel per week until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2021 at six thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per week;

3.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Menhaden Management Area will remain closed until further notice;

4.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial Menhaden fishery in state waters outside of the Menhaden Management Area will remain at 120,000 pounds per vessel per day until further notice;

5.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category will be fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2021 at ten thousand (10,000) pounds per vessel per week;

6.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Scup Floating Fish Traps will be fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2021 at an unlimited possession limit;

7.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will be closed until further notice;

8.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will be closed until re-opening the next sub-period on April 1, 2021 at an unlimited possession limit;

9.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2021 at 100 pounds per vessel per day;

10.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will remain closed until re-opening January 3, 2021 for permitted vessels at two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week;

11.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial Tautog fishery will remain closed until the next sub-period begins on April 1, 2021 at 10 fish per vessel per day;

12.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Aggregated Large Coastal Sharks will be thirty-six (36) sharks per trip until further notice;

13.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, January 1, 2021 the commercial possession limit for Hammerhead Sharks will be thirty-six (36) sharks per trip until further notice;

12/18/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, December 20, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels that possess a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be two thousand (2000) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the possession limit will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

12/11/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, December 13, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels that possess a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be nine hundred (900) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the possession limit will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

2.)Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, December 13, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be three hundred (300) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

12/4/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, December 6, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels that possess a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be seven hundred (700) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the possession limit will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

2.)Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, December 6, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

11/20/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 22, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels that possess a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the possession limit will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

2.)Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 22, 2020 the commercial Bluefish fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one thousand (1000) pounds per vessel per bi-week;

11/13/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 15, 2020 the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on April 1, 2021 ten (10) fish per vessel per day;

11/10/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, November 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be two thousand (2000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins on November 16, 2020 at one thousand five hundred (1500) pounds per vessel per week;

11/6/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 8, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels that possess a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be four hundred (400) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the possession limit will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

2.)Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 8, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins on November 16, 2021 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

10/30/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred fifty (150) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

10/14/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, October 28, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels that possess a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate will be three hundred (300) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, the possession limit will remain at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

10/14/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, October 16, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred fifty (150) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on November 1, 2020 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;

9/29/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, October 2, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on November 1, 2020 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, October 2, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the further notice;

9/28/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, October 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category and Scup Floating Fish Trap will be twenty-four thousand (24,000) pounds per vessel per day until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2021 at fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day;

9/23/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday, September 28, 2020 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will re-open at five (5) fish per vessel per day until further notice;

8/27/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 30, 2020 the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on October 15, 2020 at 10 (ten) fish per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 30, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category will be 20,000 (twenty thousand) pounds per vessel per week, until the further notice;

8/20/2020

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 1: Definitions and General Provisions (effective August 20, 2020);

2.) Part 3: Finfish (effective August 20, 2020);

3.) Part 9: Maps (repeal, effective August 20, 2020);

8/14/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 16, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder for vessels with a summer flounder exemption certificate will be three hundred (300) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. For vessels without a summer flounder exemption certificate the possession limit remains at two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.;

7/31/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 2, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

7/17/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, July 19, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the fishery closes August 1, 2020. The fishery re-opens September 15, 2020 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;

7/10/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, July 12, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one hundred fifty (150) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins September 16, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday, July 13, 2020 the commercial Menhaden inside the Menhaden Management Area fishery will close;

7/7/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, July 9, 2020 the Striped Bass General Category fishery will close. This closure indicates that the 2020 General Category Striped Bass quota is projected to have been exhausted for the current fishing year;

6/22/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, June 25, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins July 1, 2020 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, June 25, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Menhaden inside the Menhaden Management Area will be one-hundred twenty-thousand (120,000) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

6/17/2020

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 3: Finfish (Public notice May 1- May 31; effective July 7, 2020);

2.) Part 4: Shellfish (Public notice May 1- May 31; effective July 6, 2020);

3.) Part 5: Lobsters, Crabs, and Other Crustaceans (Public notice May 1- May 31; effective May 31, 2020);

4.) Part 14: Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate (Public notice May 1- May 31; effective July 6, 2020);

5/29/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, May 31, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins July 1, 2020 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;

5/15/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday, May 18, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

5/14/2020

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) Part 1: Definition and General Provisions (Direct Final Rule: Effective May 14, 2020);

2.) Part 6: General Equipment Provisions (Direct Final Rule: Effective May 14, 2020);

4/27/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, May 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per the day until further notice. For vessels without a fluke exemption certificate, the possession limit will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

This large change in possession limit is being made due to a projected large underage that will occur during winter 1 sub period that will roll into the two remaining sub periods equally. While the fish remain offshore, we are raising the possession limit to allow access to these fish at an amount that will help vessels that were not able to harvest them during the winter 1 period due to our current healthcare crisis recoup some of the pounds they were not able to access during that period. We will closely monitor the quota and will be in close communication with seafood dealers to make sure we do not harvest more than the roll over amount at the higher possession limit. As we approach the roll over amount, we will revert to the normal starting possession limit for the summer sub period. This possession limit change is contingent upon the large winter period underage occurring; if it appears this won't occur, the Department will adjust this strategy based on the condition on April 30, 2020.

4/22/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, April 24, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be eight thousand five hundred (8,500) pounds per vessel per the month of April 2020, until the program ends on April 30, 2020. This allows permitted vessels to land a total of 8,500 pounds from April 3, 2020 to April 30, 2020;

The Aggregate Landing Program will terminate when ninety percent (90%) of the winter sub-period has been harvested and the possession limit shall be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per calendar day.

For vessels without a fluke exemption certificate, the possession limit remains at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day.

4/2/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, April 3, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be seven thousand five hundred (7,500) pounds per vessel per the month of April 2020, until the program ends on April 30, 2020;

The Aggregate Landing Program will terminate when ninety percent (90%) of the winter sub-period has been harvested and the possession limit shall be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per calendar day. For vessels not permitted in the Aggregate Landing Program the possession limit will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per calendar day.

As of 12:00AM, April 3, 2020, all vessel permitted to participate in the Summer Flounder Aggregate Program will start at zero percent (0%) of their aggregate limit of seven thousand five hundred (7,500) pounds per vessel per month of April 2020.

3/27/2020

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 3: Finfish (February 10 Public Hearing: Effective April 2, 2020);

2/28/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, March 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be eight hundred fifty (850) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2020 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, March 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be two thousand five hundred (2,500) pounds per vessel per bi-week (2 week period), until the program ends on Apiril 30, 2020;

2/19/2020

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 5: Lobster, Crabs, and Other Crustaceans (Direct Final Rule effective 2/19/2020);

1/29/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, February 2, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be seven hundred (700) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins May 1, 2020 at 50 pounds per vessel per day.;

1/15/2020

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, January 19, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will be two thousand (2,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week (2 week period).;

1/8/2020

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 1: Definitions and General Provisions (November 12 Public Hearing: effective 1/23/20);

Part 4: Shellfish (November 12 Public Hearing: effective 1/13/20);

12/30/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2020 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2020 at six thousand (6,000) pounds per vessel per week;

3.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Menhaden Management Area will remain closed until further notice;

4.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial Menhaden fishery in state waters outside of the Menhaden Management Area will remain at 120,000 pounds per vessel per day until further notice;

5.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category will be fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2020 at ten thousand (10,000) pounds per vessel per week;

6.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Scup Floating Fish Traps will be fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2020 at an unlimited possession limit;

7.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will be closed until further notice;

8.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will be closed until re-opening the next sub-period on April 1, 2020 at an unlimited possession limit;

9.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2020 at 100 pounds per vessel per day;

10.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will remain closed until re-opening January 5, 2020 for permitted vessels at one thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per week;

11.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020 the commercial Tautog fishery will remain closed until the next sub-period begins on April 1, 2020 at 10 fish per vessel per day;

2019

12/16/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, December 18, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be eight hundred (800) pounds per vessel per day for license holders who hold a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for license holders who do not hold a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at 200 pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

12/16/2019

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 3: Finfish (November 12 Public Hearing: effective 1/1/20);

Part 12: Research Pilot Aggregate Program (November 12 Public Hearing: effective 1/1/20);

ADOPTION OF NEW REGULATION

Part 13: Cooperative Multi-State Possession and Landing Pilot Program for Sudmmer Flounder (November 12 Public Hearing: effective 1/1/20);

12/11/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, December 13, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per day for license holders who hold a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for license holders who do not hold a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at 200 pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

11/8/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 24, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be three hundred fifty (350) pounds per vessel per day for license holders who hold a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day. The possession limit for license holders who do not hold a Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate remains at 200 pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

11/8/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday, November 11, 2019 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until further notice;

11/6/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 10, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will remain at 20,000 pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at 1,000 pounds per vessel per bi-week;

11/1/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 3, 2019 the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until re-opening April 1, 2020 at 10 fish per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, November 3, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two hundred fifty (250) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

10/24/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, October 27, 2019 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will re-open at five (5) fish per vessel per day, until further notice;

10/18/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, October 20, 2019 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will re-open at five (5) fish per vessel per day, until the fishery closes at 12:00AM on Friday, October 25, 2019. Please note the Division will continue to monitor harvest and will re-evaluate at the end of the week to determine if there is enough quota remaining to re-open;

10/10/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, October 13, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Striped Bass General Category will be five (5) fish per vessel per day, until the fishery closes at 11:59:59 PM on Thursday, October 17, 2019 for the remainder of the year. Please note the Division will continue to monitor harvest and will re-evaluate at the end of the week to determine if there is enough quota remaining to re-open;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, October 13, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

10/8/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wednesday, October 9, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Large Coastal Aggregated Sharks will be fifty-five (55) sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

10/2/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, October 6, 2019 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will re-open at five (5) fish per vessel per day, until the fishery closes at 12:00AM on Friday, October 11, 2019;

9/27/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Scup will be twenty-seven thousand (27,000) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day;

9/26/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Scup will be twelve thousand (12,000) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2020 at fifty thousand (50,000) pounds per vessel per day;

9/25/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Saturday, September 28, 2019 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on November 1, 2019 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Saturday, September 28, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish fishery will be twenty-thousand (20,000) pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins on November 10, 2019 at five hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

6/18/2019

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 3: Finfish (Direct Final Rule: effective 8/8/19);

Part 7: Dealers (Direct Final Rule: effective 8/11/19);

8/16/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, September 1, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder fishery will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2019 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

8/16/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, August 16, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Large Coastal Aggregated Sharks fishery will be forty-five (45) sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

8/15/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 18, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Scup - General Category will be twenty-five (25,000) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

2.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 18, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be fifteen thousand (15,000) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

3.) Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 18, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one hundred fifty (150) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2019 at one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day;

8/1/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, August 4, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Scup - General Category will be twenty-thousand (20,000) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

7/19/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, July 21, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Scup - General Category will be fifteen-thousand (15,000) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

7/15/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Wedneday, July 17, 2019 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will CLOSE, re-opening September 15, 2019 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

7/8/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Thursday, July 11, 2019 the commercial Striped Bass General Category will CLOSE, until further notice;

6/26/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, June 30, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be twelve-thousand (12,000) pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

6/25/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, June 30, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

6/24/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Large Coastal Aggregated Sharks fishery will be thirty-six (36) sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

6/18/2019

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 3: Finfish (effective 6/14/2019);

6/11/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, June 14, 2019 the commercial Biomedical Horseshoe Crab fishery will close, until further notice;

6/6/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until the next sub-period begins on July 1, 2019 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

6/4/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, June 9, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be seventy-five (75) pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2019 at 100 pounds per vessel per day;

5/20/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Friday, May 24, 2019 the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until re-opening on October 15, 2019 at 10 fish per day;

4/19/2019

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 5: Lobsters, Crabs, and Other Crustaceans (RIMFC 4/1/2019; effective 5/8/2019);

Part 6: General Equipment Provisions (RIMFC 4/1/2019; effective 5/8/2019);

4/15/2019

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

Part 3: Finfish (RIMFC 4/1/2019; effective 5/2/2019);

3/29/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Monday, April 1, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead Shark species groups will be 3 sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

3/20/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1. Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, March 24, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be 850 pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2019 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

2. Beginning 12:00A.M. on Sunday, March 31, 2019 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Profram will be 4,000 pounds per vessel per bi-week, until the program closes on April 30, 2019;

3/1/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00A.M. on Saturday, March 9, 2019 the possession limit for Atlantic herring in Area 2 will be 2,000 pounds per vessel per day, or 2,000 pounds per vessel per trip, though December 31, 2019. Vessels participating in other fisheries may possess no more than 2,000 pounds of Atlantic herring per day or per trip. In addition, all vessels traveling through Area 2 must have all seine and mid-water trawl gear stowed;

3/8/2019

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, March 3, 2019, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be 750 pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins on May 1, 2019, at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

2018

12/28/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass is five-hundred (500) pounds per vessel per week;

2.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish is one-thousand (1,000) pounds per vessel per bi-week (two week period);

3.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial Menhaden (in the Management Area) fishery is closed, until further notice;

4.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial landing limit for Menhaden (in state waters outside the Menhaden Management Area) remains 120,000 pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

5.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category is 50,000 pounds per vessel per day;

6.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial possession limit for Scup Floating Fish Trap is 50,000 pounds per vessel per day;

7.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery is CLOSED, until further notice;

8.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial possession limit for Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead Shark species groups is twenty-five (25) sharks per vessel per day;

9.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the commercial Blacknose Shark fishery is CLOSED, until further notice;

10.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday, January 1, 2019, the Shortfin Make fishery is CLOSED, until further notice;

12/27/2018

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

RIMFR Part 4: Shellfish

12/4/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be two hundred (200) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

11/20/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Saturday, November 24, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be one hundred (100) pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

11/13/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Friday November 16, 2018, the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until the fishery re-opens April 1, 2019 at 10 fish per vessel per day;

11/8/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday November 8, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Coastal Sharks - Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead Shark Species Groups will be forty-five (45) sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

2.) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday November 11, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will remain at 25,000 pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

9/28/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday October 21 2018, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be 25,000 pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

9/28/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Monday October 1 2018, the commercial possession limit for Scup will be 28,500 pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2018 at 50,000 pounds per vessel per day;

2.) Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday October 3, 2018 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close until the next sub-period begins on November 1, 2018 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

9/11/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

As of September 10, the Area 1A Atlantic herring fishery has harvested 97% of the Trimester 2 allocation. Beginning 12:00 am Thursday September 13, 2018 the Area 1A fishery will move to zero landing days through September 30, 2018, as specified in the ASMFC Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan. Vessels participating in other fisheries may possess no more than 2,000 pounds of Atlantic herring per trip per day. In additional, all vessels traveling through Area 1A must have all seine and mid-water paid trawl gear stowed;

9/10/18

ADOPTION OF NEW REGULATION

Adoption of new regulation and associated repeal for re-formatting per RI Code of Regulations (RICR):Part 9:Maps

8/22/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Monday August 27, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be 100 pounds per vessel per day, until further notice. The fishery is closed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday each week;

8/10/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday August 12, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category fishery will be 30,000 pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

2.) Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday August 15, 2018, the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close, until further notice;

8/2/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday August 5, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will be 500 pounds per fish trap licensee per day, until further notice;

7/26/2018

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

1.) RIMFR Part 3: Finfish

2.) RIMFR Part 1: Definitions and General Provisions

7/26/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday July 29, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category will be 20,000 pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

7/16/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday July 18, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Coastal Sharks - Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead Shark species groups will be thirty-six (36) sharks per vessel per day until further notice;

7/13/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday July 19, 2018, the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass will close until re-opening September 15, 2018 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

7/11/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday July 15, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be 15,000 pounds per vessel per week;

6/28/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1.) Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday July 1, 2018, the commercial Shortfin Mako Shark fishery will close, until further notice;

2.) Beginning 12:00AM on Tuesday July 3, 2018, the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will close, until re-opening on August 5, 2018 at 5 fish per vessel per day;

6/13/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday June 17, 2018, the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will close, until re-opening on July 1, 2018 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

5/25/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday May 27, 2018, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be 10,000 pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

5/23/18

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday May 27, 2018, the commercial Tautog fishery will close, until the re-opening on August 1, 2018, at 10 fish per vessel per day;

2017

12/22/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday December 24, 2017, as a result of a quota transfer, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be 700 pounds per vessel per day, until further notice.

12/2017

AMENDMENT TO EXISTING REGULATIONS

"RIMFR "Part 1:" Definitions and General Provisions"
"RIMFR "Part 3:"Finfish"

ADOPTION OF NEW REGULATIONS

"RIMFR "Part 11:" Regulations Governing Education Certification of Commercial Shellfish Harvesters"

12/15/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday December 17, 2017, as a result of a quota transfer, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be 200 pounds per vessel per day, until further notice.

12/3/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Wednesday December 6, 2017 the commercial Tautog fishery will Close, until further notice.

11/30/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday December 3, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be 15,000 pounds per vessel per week, until the next sub-period begins January 1, 2018 at 500 pounds per vessel per week;
2. Effective 12:00AM on Sunday December 3, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be 100 pounds per vessel per day, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2018 at 750 pounds per vessel per week;

11/17/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday November 19, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be 10,000 pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;

11/10/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday November 12, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will remain at 15,000 pounds per vessel per week, until further notice;
Effective 12:00AM on Tuesday, November 14, 2017, the commercial Fluke fishery will Close, until the fishery re-opens January 1, 2018 at 200 pounds per vessel per day;

11/7/17

Amendment to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 2:" Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulations
RIMFR "Part 4:" Shellfish

10/26/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday, November 5, 2017, the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will Close until the fishery re-opens April 1,2018;
Effective 12:00AM on Sunday, November 5, 2017, the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will Open at 5 fish per vessel per day, closed on Friday and Saturdays, until further notice;

10/26/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Wednesday November 1, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be 50 pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

10/19/17

Technical Revision to Existing Regulations

"RIMFR "Part 4:" Shellfish

10/19/17

Amendment to Existing Regulations

"RIMFR "Part 1:" Definitions;

10/19/17

Adoption of New Regulation

"RIMFR "Part 3:" Finfish, to consolidate and reformat per RI Code of Regulations (RICR); included are repeals for Part XII - Striped Bass, and Part XVI - Menhaden; contents of these regulations are now located in the newly adopted Part 3 - Finfish;

10/16/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Tuesday October 17, 2017 the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery will re-open at 1,000 pounds per floating fish trap licensee per calendar day, until further notice;

10/16/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Wednesday October 18, 2017 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will Close until the next sub-period opens on November 1, 2017 at 100 pounds oer vessel per day;

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Thursday October 12, 2017 the commercial Striped Bass fishery will Close for both the general category and the floating fish trap fisheries. This means that Wednesday, October 11, 2017 will be the last day to fish for striped bass commercially in 2017;

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday October 8, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category will be 6,000 pounds per vessel per week until the Winter II sub-period begins on November 1,2017 at 18,000 pounds per vessel per day;

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Sunday October 1, 2017 the commercial possession limit for General Category Striped Bass will be 5 fish per vessel per day until further notice;

9/15/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday September 17, 2017, the commercial possession limit for General Category Scup will be decreased to 7,500 pounds per vessel per week;
Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday September 20, 2017, the commercial General Category Striped Bass fishery will Close. The last day to fish will be Tuesday September 19, 2017;

9/13/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Saturday September 16, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be 50 pounds per vessel per day;

9/7/17

Reformatted per RI Code of Regulations (RICR)

RIMFR "Part 5:" Crustacean

9/5/17 POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Friday September 8, 2017 the commercial landing and possession of Menhaden is prohibited inside the Menhaden Management Area until further notice. The bycatch limit of non-directed gear types after this date will be 6,000 pounds per vessel per day or 12,000 pounds per vessel per day when two licensed fishermen are on board the vessel;

8/29/17

Technical Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 6:" General Equipment Provisions

8/28/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on Thursday August 31, 2017 the commercial Tautog fishery will CLOSE. This means that Wednesday August 30, 2017 is the last day to fish for tautog commercially in this sub period. The next sub-period begins on October 15, 2017 at 10 fish/vessel/valendar day;

8/11/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on August 17, 2017 the Commercial Summer Flounder Fishery will Close until the next sub-period begins on September 16, 2017 at 100 pounds/vessel/calendar day;

8/9/17

Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 3:" Finfish
RIMFR "Part 7:" Dealers
RIMFR "Part 6:" General Equipment Provisions

8/8/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on August 10, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Menhaden in the Menhaden Management Area is 120,000 pounds per vessel per day. The commercial landings of menhaden inside the Menhaden Management Area, as well as the commercial landing and possession of menhaden in State waters outside of the Menhaden Management Area, remains prohibited until further notice, except as specified in the bycatch provision below. The bycatch limit for non-directed gear types after this date, in the Menhaden Management Area and in State waters outside the Menhaden Management Area, will be 6,000 pounds per vessel per day, or 12,000 pounds per vessel per day when two licensed fishermen are on board the vessel;

7/27/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 30, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be 15,000 pounds pre vessel per week;
Beginning 12:00AM on July 30, 2017 the Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program will close; the possession limit will be 50 pounds/vessel/calendar day(closed Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays weekly) until the next sub-period begins on September 16,2017 at 100 pounds/vessel/calendar day;

7/13/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 20, 2017 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will Close until the next sub-period opens September 15, 2017 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

7/13/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 16, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Monkfish will be 700 pounds per vessel per day tail weight, or 2,037 pounds per vessel per day whole weight until further notice;

7/11/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 16, 2017 the commercial General Category Striped Bass fishery will Close until the fishery re-opens September 10, 2017 at 5 fish/person/day or 5 fish/vessel/day. Please be reminded that the fishery is closed on Friday and Saturday each week;
Beginning 12:00AM on July 16, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Coastal Sharks - Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead Shark species groups will be thirty-six (36) sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

7/10/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 13, 2017 the commercial landing and possession of Menhaden is prohibited in the Menhaden Management Area, and in state waters outside the Management Area, except as specified in the bycatch provision below, until further notice.

The bycatch limit for non-directed gear types after this date, in the Menhaden Management Area and in State waters outside the Menhaden Management Area, will be 6,000 pounds per vessel per day, or 120,000 pounds per vessel per day when two licensed fishermen are on board the vessel;

7/7/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 10, 2017 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will Re-Open at 5 fish per vessel per day until further notice

7/3/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 6, 2017 the commercial landing of Menhaden is prohibited in Rhode Island, except as specified in the bycatch provision below. The commercial possession of Menhaden within the Menhaden Management Area will be 120,000 pounds per vessel per day until further notice.

6/28/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on July 3, 2017 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will Close until the fishery re-opens September 10, 2017 at 5 fish per vessel per day;

6/26/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on June 28, 2017 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will Open at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

6/7/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on June 10, 2017 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will Close;

5/19/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on May 21, 2017 the commercial landing and possession of Menhaden in RI is Re-Opened due to the state's participation in the 2017 Episodic Event Set Aside Program for menhaden. The commercial landing and possession limit, both within the Menhaden Management Area and in state waters outside the Management Area is 120,000 pounds per vessel per day;

5/19/17

Technical Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 6:" General Equipment Provisions

5/16/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on May 19, 2017 the commercial Tautog fishery will Close;

5/12/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, May 14, 2017, the commercial landing and possession of Menhaden is prohibited inside the Menhaden Management Area and in state waters outside the Menhaden Management Area. The bycatch limit for non-directed gear types after this date will be 6,000 pounds per vessel per day, or 12,000 pounds per vessel per day when two licensed fishermen are on board the vessel;

5/8/17

Reformatted per RI Code of Regulations (RICR)

RIMFR "Part 4:" Definitions
RIMFR "Part 4:" Shellfish

5/2/17

Technical Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 2:" Commercial and Recreational Fishing License Regulations

4/12/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on April 16, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will Increase to 700 pounds per vessel per week;
Beginning 12:00AM on April 16, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will increase to 750 pounds per vessel per week;
Beginning 12:00AM on April 16, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Coastal Sharks- Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead species groups will decrease to 3 sharks per vessel per day, until further notice;

4/7/17

Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 3:" Finfish
RIMFR "Part 4:" Shellfish

3/28/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on April 2, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will Increase to 600 pounds per vessel per week;

3/27/17

Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 12:"Striped Bass
RIMFR "Part 16:"Menhaden

3/23/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on March 26, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will Increase to 500 pounds per vessel per week;

3/7/17

Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 4:"Shellfish

3/3/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on March 6, 2017 the commercial fishery for Coastal Sharks- Blacknose Sharks Species Group will Close until further notice;

3/3/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on March 5, 2017 the commercial possession limit for the commercial Bluefish will Decrease to 250 pounds/vessel/week;

2/10/17

Technical Revision to Existing Regulations

RIMFR "Part 5:"Lobster, Crabs, and Other Crustaceans

1/30/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on February 2, 2017 the commercial possession limit for the commercial skate bait fishery will Decrease to 1,135 pounds/vessel/day of whole weight through April 30, 2017 (the remainder of the sub-period 3). On May 1, 2017 the possession limit will increase to 25,000 pounds/vessel/day;

1/19/17

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on January 22, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will Decrease to 500 pounds/vessel/week;

1/12/17

Annotated Regulations as a Result of Public Hearing

RIMFR "Part 6:"

2016

12/29/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on January 1, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will Decrease to 750 pounds/vessel/week;
Beginning 12:00AM on January 1, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be 200 pounds/vessel/day;
Beginning 12:00AM on January 1, 2017 the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category and Floating Fish Tra9s will be 50,000 pounds/vessel/day;

12/22/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on December 26, 2016 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will Increase to 400 pounds/vessel/day;

12/22/16

RIMFR "Part 5:"
RIMFR "Part 3:"
Amendments made as a result of a public hearing held on November 14;

12/16/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on December 18, 2016 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will Increase to 300 pounds/vessel/day;

12/01/16

RIMFR "Part 1 Definitions:" Amendments made as a result of a public hearing held on September 19 and RI Marine Fisheries Council meeting held on October 3rd;

12/08/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on December 11, 2016 the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will Increase to 200 pounds/vessel/day;

12/02/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on December 5, 2016 the commercial Menhaden fishery both within the Menhaden Management Area and in state waters outside the Management Area, will CLOSE. The fishery in state waters outside the Menhaden Management Area will re-open January 1, 2017 (unlimited possession limit);

12/01/16

RIMFR "Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Licensing regulations:" Amendments made as a result of a public hearing held on September 19 and RI Marine Fisheries Council meeting held on October 3rd;

11/20/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on November 27, 2016 the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will DECREASE to 250 pounds per vessel per week, until the season re-opens January 1, 2017 at 500 pounds per vessel per week;

11/20/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on November 20, 2016 the commercial Directed Management Area 1B Atlantic Sea Herring fishery will CLOSE (2,000 pounds/vessel/day bycatch limit), and will re-open January 1, 2017 (unlimited possession limit);

11/10/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective immediately on November 10, 2016 the commercial Menhaden fishery will Re-Open in state waters outside of the Menhaden Management Area at 25,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day; and also will Re-Open in the designated fall area (see RIMFI Part XVI- Menhaden, section 16.1.1(E)) at 25,000 pounds per vessel per day;

11/07/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on November 10, 2016 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery is Closed until the fishery re-opens January 1, 2017 at 1,000 lbs/vsl/week;

11/07/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Effective 12:00AM on November 7, 2016 the commercial Menhaden fishery both within the Menhaden Management Areas and in state waters outside the Menhaden Management Area is Closed (6,000 lb/vsl/day bycatch limit) for the remainder of the year;

10/21/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on October 31, 2016 the commercial Tautog fishery will Re-Open at 10 fish per vessel per day; and Close effective 12:00AM on Thursday November 3, 2016 for the remainder of the year;

10/21/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on October 26, 2016 the commercial Tautog fishery will Close for the remainder of 2016;

Effective 12:00AM on November 1, 2016, the possession limit for commercial Black Sea Bass will be Decreased to 50 pounds per vessel per day;

10/10/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on October 10, 2016 the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will Close until the fishery re-opens in 2017;

Effective 12:00AM on November 1, 2016, the possession limit for commercial Black Sea Bass will be Decreased to 50 pounds per vessel per day;

10/7/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

1. Beginning 12:00AM on October 20, 2016 the commercial Directed Management Area 1A Atlantic Sea herring fishery will CLOSE (2,000 pounds/vessel/day bycatch limit), and will re-open January 1, 2017 (unlimited possession limit;

2. Effective 12:00AM on October 20, the possession limit for the Coastal Sharks commercial Aggregated Large Coastal Shark (LCS) and Hammerhead Shark Management Groups will Decrease to 25 sharks/vessel/day until further notice;

3. Effective 12:00AN on October 20, 2016, the possession limit for the commercial skate bait fishery will Decrease to 9,307 pounds/vessel/day of whole weight through October 31, 2016 (remainder of Season 2), and will increase to 25,000 pounds/vessel/day on November 1, 2016;

4. Effective November 1, 2016, the possession limit for commercial general category scup will Increase to 18,000 lbs/vessel/day;

9/22/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on September 29, 2016 the commercial limit for Striped Bass General Category fishery will RE-OPEN due to lower than expected harvest over the final few days of the open period last week. The Division will review catch rates the following Monday to determine length of opening;

9/26/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on September 29, 2016 the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will CLOSE until the next sub-period begins on November 1, 2016 at 100 lbs/vessel/calendar day;

9/22/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on September 25, 2016 the commercial limit for Striped Bass General Category fishery will CLOSE until the next sub-period begins on May 29, 2017 at 5 fish/vessel/calendar day;

Begining 12:00AM on September 22, 2016, the commercial Directed Management Area 1A Atlantic sea herring fishery is CLOSED through September 30, 2016, at which time the fishery will re-open (unlimited possesion limit).

9/9/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Begnning 12:00AM on Sunday September 11, 2016 the commercial possesion limit for Summer Flounder will INCREASE to 200 punds per vessel per day, the next sub-period begins on September 16 at 100 pounds/vessel/calendar day;

9/1/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, September 4, 2016 the Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing program will CLOSE ; the possession limit will be 50 pounds/vessel/calendar day (closed Fridays and Saturdays) until the next sub-period begins on September 16 at 100 pounds/vessel/calendar day;

8/16/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, August 17, 2016 the commercial possession limit for Spiny Dogfish will INCREASE to 6,000 pounds per vessel per day, until further notice;

8/1/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, August 3,2016 the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish fishery will CLOSE until the fishery re-opens on April 1, 2016;

7/13/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Friday, July 15, 2016, the commercial possession limit for the Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead shark groups fishery will INCREASE to 45 sharks per vessel per day;

7/8/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Wednesday, July 13, 2016, the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will CLOSE until the next sub-period begins on September 15, 2016 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

7/7/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, July 10, 2016, the commercial Bluefish fishery will INCREASE to 12,000 lbs/vessel/week, until the next sub-period begins on November 16, 2016 at 500 lbs/vessel/week;

6/24/16

> POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, June 27, 2016, the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Menhaden Management Area will CLOSE;

6/20/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday, June 23, 2016, the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery will CLOSE until the next sub-period begins on September, 8, 2016 at 5 fish/vessel/day;

6/16/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, June 19, 2016, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will INCREASE to 6,000 pounds/vessel/week;

6/1/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, June 5, 2016, the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will CLOSE, until the next sub-period begins July 1, 2016 at 50 pounds per vessel per day;

5/19/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Friday, May 20, 2016, the commercial landing of Menhaden in RI is Re Opened at 120,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day due to the state's participation in the 2016 Episodic Event Set Aside Program for menhaden. The commercial possession both within the Menhaden Management Area and in state waters outside the Management Area is 120,000 pounds per vessel per day;

5/17/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday, May 19, 2016, the commercial landing of Menhaden is Prohibited (a 6,000 pound per vessel per calendar day bycatch limit is allowed to be landed after this date). The commerical possession limit inside the Menhaden Management Area remains 120,000 pounds per vessel per day until further notice, but cannot be landed in RI;

5/17/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Thursday, May 19, 2016, the commercial Horseshoe Crab bait fishery will CLOSE ;

5/13/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 16, 2016, the commercial Menhaden fishery will Open the possession limit is 120,000lbs per vessel per day;

5/12/16

5/6/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Monday, May 9, 2016, the commercial Tautog fishery will CLOSE;

4/14/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, April 17, 2016, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be DECREASED to 100 pounds/vessel/calendar day; and to 1,000 pounds/vessel/bi-week (i.e., every 2 weeks) for those vessels participating in the Aggregate Landing Program;

4/6/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Saturday, April 9 2016, the commercial possession limit for Coastal Shark- Aggregated Large Coastal and Hammerhead Shark species groups will be DECREASED to three (3) sharks/vessel/calendar day;

4/1/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, April 3, 2016, the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery will CLOSE;

3/31/16

RIMFR- Finfish:

RIMFR- Part 7 Dealer Regulations:

RIMFR- Part XII Striped Bass:

[Regulations effective April 20, 2016]; 3/16/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION

Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, March 20, 2016, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be INCREASED to 3,000 pounds/vessel/bi-week for vessels permitted in the winter sub-period of the Aggregate Landing Program;

2/26/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, February 28, 2016, the commercial possession limit for Bluefish will be DECREASED to 250 pounds/vessel/week;

2/10/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, February 14, 2016, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be DECREASED to 500 pounds/vessel/week;

1/21/16

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, January 24, 2016, the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass will be DECREASED to 750 pounds/vessel/week;

Part 1 - Definitions: New regulation adopted in conjunction of repeal of existing regulations Part 1- Legislative Findings;
Part 3 - Finfish: 2016 regulations for recreational black sea bass;
Part 4 - Shellfish: Extension of oyster moratorium in Quonochontaug Pond;
Part 5 - Lobsters, Crabs, and other Crustaceans: New regulations for Jonah and Atlantic Rock Crab;
Part 6 - General Equipment Provisions: New gillnet regulations;
Part 6 - General Equipment Provisions: Newly adopted regulation in conjunction of repeal of existing regulations Part X (Equipment Restrictions), Part XI (Commercial Fisheries), Part XIII (Gillnet Regulations), and Part XIV (Fish Traps) as part of regulation re-structuring;
Part 16 - Menhaden: New regulations for recreational menhaden; [Regulations effective May 31, 2016];

2015

12/11/15

RIMFR- Finfish: RIMFR- Part I Legislative Findings: [Regulations effective January 1, 2016];

12/03/15

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION Beginning 12:00AM on Sunday, December 6, 2015, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be DECREASED to 100 pounds/vessel/day;

11/20/15

POSSESSION LIMIT MODIFICATION Beginning 12:00AM on November 23 2015, the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder will be DECREASED to 150 pounds/vessel/day;

11/18/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL This filing is to REPEAL this regulation, Part III - Marine Fisheries Council [Effective December 8, 2015];

11/6/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL This amendment CLOSES commercial Menhaden in the Menhaden Management Area beginning 12:01AM on Monday, November 9, 2015, until further notice; and CLOSES commercial Black Sea Bass beginning November 9, 2015 until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2015 at 750 lbs/vsl/day;

11/2/15

RIMFR- Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing License Regulations:

RIMFR- Aquaculture Marine Species in Rhode Island Waters: RIMFR- Lobsters, Crabs, and other Crustaceans: RIMFR- Shellfish: [These regulations will become effective on November 18, 2015]

10/30/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment CLOSES the directed fishery for commercial Atlantic Herring- Area 1A beginning 12:01AM on Monday, November 2, 2015, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2016 (unlimited); OPENS the directed fishery for commercial Atlantic Herring- Area 1B beginning November 2, 2015 (possession limit unlimited); to CLOSE the commercial Menhaden fishery in state waters otuside the Menhaden Management Area beginning November 1, 2015, until further notice; and to CLOSE the commercial Tautog fishery beginning November 2, 2015 until the next fishing season begins on April 15, 2015 at ten (10) fish/vessel/calendar day; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/29/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Bluefish fishery to 2,500 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, November 1, 2015, until the next sub-period begins on January 1, 2016 (unlimited); [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/16/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Scup General Category fishery to 5,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, October 18, 2015, until the Winter II sub-period begins on November 1, 2015 at 18,000 lbs/vessel/day; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/14/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment CLOSES the commercial Striped Bass Floating Fish Trap fishery beginning 12:01AM on Friday, October 16, 2015; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/02/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment INCREASES the commercial possession limit of Bluefish to 20,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, October 4, 2015; and INCREASES the possession limit for commercial Scup General Category to 18,000 lbs/vessel/day to coincide with the federal Winter II Commercial possession limit beginning 12:01AM on November 1, 2015; and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass to 50 lbs/vessel/day at the start of the next sub-period beginning on 12:01AM on November 1, 2015 (currently closed); [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

9/18/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment CLOSES the commercial Striped Bass General Category fishery beginning 12:01AM on Monday, September 21, 2015; and INCREASES the possession limit for commerical Scup General Category to 10,000 lbs/vsl/wk beginning Sunday September 20, 2015; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

9/14/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment OPENS the commercial Menhaden fishery inside the Narragansett Bay Management Ares at 120,000 lbs/vessel/day , beginning 12:01AM on Tuesday, September 15, 2015; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

9/9/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment CLOSES the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery, beginning 12:01AM on Thursday, September 10, 2015; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

9/4/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder to 100 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, September 6, 2015; INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Bluefish to 10,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, September 6, 2015; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

8/14/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Bluefish to 7,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, August 16, 2015; INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Scup to 7,500 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, August 16, 2015; in addition, the Summer Flounder Aggregate Program is CLOSED effective Sunday, August 16, 2015; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

8/6/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment CLOSES the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, August 9, 2015; and INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Bluefish to 5,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, August 9, 2015;[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

7/27/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment OPENS the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area at 120,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01AM on Monday, July 27, 2015; in addition, for Bluefish will remain REDUCED but due to concerns expressed by industry, a weekly aggregate possession limit will be instituted at 1,400 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, July 26, 2015.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

7/24/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This amendment DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Bluefish to 200 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, July 26, 2015; and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder to 50 lbs/vessel/day, and 350 lbs/vessel/week for vessels permitted in the Aggregate Program, beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, July 26, 2015.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

7/8/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This filing CLOSES the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery beginning on 12:01 AM Thursday, July 9, 2015 and DECREASES the possession limit for the commercial Scup fishery to 2,500 lbs/vessel/week beginning on 12:01 AM Sunday, July 12, 2015. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

7/3/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This filing DECREASES the General Category commercial Scup fishery to 5,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning on 12:01 AM Sunday, July 5, 2015 and CLOSES the General Category commercial Striped Bass fishery beginning on 12:01 AM Monday, July 6, 2015. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

6/26/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 7.1 - This filing CLOSES the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area beginning on 12:01 AM Sunday, June 28, 2015, until further notice. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

6/22/15

PART XV Lobsters, Other Crustaceans, and Horseshoe Crabs This filing is to REPEAL these regulations in conjunction with adoption of new regulation in order to re-organize the structure of the regulation; RIFMR - Lobsters, Crabs, and Other Crustaceans This filing is to ADOPT regulations in conjunction with repeal of regulation RIMF Part XV; 8.1.4(A) - This filing is to ADOPT regulations regarding possession limits of lobsters taken by gillnets and otter trawls; RIFMR - Part XVI Menhaden 16.2.3(B),16.2.5(C),16.2.7,16.2.8,16.3.2 - This filing is to ADOPT regulations regarding non-directed commercial access to menhaden; RIFMR - Shellfish 13.9.2,13.18.1(A),17.3 - This filing is a TECHNICAL REVISION to shellfish regulations for clarification of language and updates to seasons and areas. [This regulation amendment becomes effective on July 12, 2015]

6/5/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Non-Blacknose Small Coastal Shark and the Blacknose Coastal Shark species groups fisheries beginning 12:01AM on Monday, June 8, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/29/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass beginning 12:01AM on Monday, June 1, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/28/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to RE-OPENS the commercial Menhaden in State Waters outside the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area at 120,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning on 12:01 AM Friday, May 29, 2015, until further notice, due to the state's participation in the 2015 episodic events set aside program for Atlantic menhaden. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

5/27/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Menhaden in State Waters outside the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area (allows for a 6,000 pound per vessel per calendar day bycatch allowance) beginning on 12:01 AM Thursday, May 28, 2015, until further notice. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

5/18/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to OPEN the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Narragansett Management Area at 120,000 pounds/vessel/day , beginning 12:01AM on Tuesday, May 19, 2015. and CLOSE the commercial Tautog fishery beginning 12:01AM on Thursday, May 21, 2015.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/8/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Horseshoe Crab bait fishery, beginning 12:01AM on Monday, May 11, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

4/10/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to DECREASE the commercial possession limit for Summer flounder to 100 pounds/vessel/day and to 1,000 pounds/vessel/week for vessels participating in the Summer Flounder Aggregate Landing Program,beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, April 12, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

4/7/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass beginning 12:01AM on Friday, April 10, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

3/17/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1 - To remove section 3.1 in its entirety (modified and relocated to RIMFR - Finfish as part of the Division's regulatory re-write). [This regulation amendment becomes effective April 6, 2015]. SHELLFISH 6, 16, and 17 - Regarding regulations to reduce the risk of Vibrio illness associated with the consumption of commercially harvested quahaugs; and sections 8.2, 9.13.2 and 12.3.1 to correct regarding technical clarifications.[This regulation amendment becomes effective April 6, 2015]. PART X EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS ENTIRE SECTION - Deletion of redundant sections that are currently included elsewhere in RIMFR.[This regulation amendment becomes effective April 6, 2015]. PART XV LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.13.2 - Regarding removal of the escape vent placement requirement.[This regulation amendment becomes effective April 6, 2015]. FINFISH 7.1.1, 7.7.2, 7.9.2, and 7.14.2 - Regarding Quota Management (modified and relocated from RIMFR Part III as part of the Division's regulatory re-write); 7.14 recreational Black sea bass; and 7.15 Spiny dogfish; and the entire regulation for general editing for improved clarity.[This regulation amendment becomes effective April 6, 2015]. PART XII STRIPED BASS 12.1 - regarding management for recreational Striped bass.[This regulation amendment becomes effective April 6, 2015].

2/26/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass to 100 lbs/vsl/day beginning 12:01AM on Saturday, February 28, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

2/16/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass to 250 lbs/vsl/day beginning 12:01AM on Tuesday, February 17, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

1/21/15

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass to 500 lbs/vsl/day beginning 12:01AM on Saturday, January 24, 2015. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

Section 7.1.1(D): Notification of modifications to possession limits and/or seasons for marine species regulated under quota;
Section 7.2.4: Possession limit compliance;
Section 7.7.2: Commercial Summer flounder management;
Section 7.10.1: Commercial Bluefish management;
Section 7.14.1: Commercial Black sea bass management.
Section 1.3: New and amended definitions;
Section 6.1-10: Exit/entry ratios for quahaug and soft-shell clam endorsement;
Section 6.2-1: Procedures for adopting Sector Management Plans;
Sections 5, 6.7-3, and 6.8-5: Date for submittal of Student Shellfish licenses.
Section 7: New and amended definitions;
Section 8.0: Clarify and update permitting and application submission requirements;
Section 9.2: Clarify submission requirements for the harvest of shellfish transferred from other than approved state waters as seed;
Section 11.1: Update tagging requirements;
Entire Regulation: General Editing.
Sections 8.4.3 and 8.4.10: To correct the minimum escape vent size and season closure dates for LCMA 4 for consistency with the federal management plan.
Section 13.9.2: Extension of the moratorium of oyster harvest in the Bissel Cove/Fox Island Shellfish Management Area;
Section 13.5, 13.9, and 13.11: Winter shellfish harvest schedules in Greenwich Bay, Bissel Cove/Fox Island, and Bristol Harbor Shellfish Management Areas.

2014

12/23/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing CLOSES the commercial fishery for Summer Flounder beginning 12:01AM on Friday, December 26, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

12/18/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder to 500 lbs/vessel/day, beginning 12:01AM on Friday, December 19, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

12/17/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing CLOSES the commercial fishery for Coastal Sharks - Porbeagle Sharks of the Pelagic Shark Species Group beginning 12:01AM on Friday, December 19, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

12/9/14

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7 & 7.24 - To correct two language errors made when regulations previously filed on May 8, 2014 regarding the Aggregate Landing Program; and regarding corrections to species groupings for Coastal sharks. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

SHELLFISH 13.5 - Establishment of the Winter shellfish harvest schedule in the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Management Area [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

COMMERCIAL AND RECREATIONAL SALTWATER FISHING LICENSING REGULATIONS 5.1, 6.7-4(l), 6.7-6(c) & (d), 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.5, 7.6, 7.8, 8 - Regarding discrepancies in age requirements, an inaccurate citation, and inaccurate dates [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

12/4/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing CLOSES the commercial fishery for Coastal Sharks - Aggregated Large Coastal Sharks Species Group and Hammerhead Sharks Species Group beginning 12:01AM on Thursday, December 4, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

11/26/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Summer Flounder to 300 lbs/vessel/day, beginning 12:01AM on Friday, November 28, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

11/12/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing CLOSES the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass , beginning 12:01AM on Thursday, November 13, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

11/10/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing CLOSES the commercial Tautog fishery, beginning 12:01AM on Tuesday, November 11, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing CLOSES the commercial general catagory fishery for Atlantic Herring in Management Area 1A 2,000 lbs/vessel/day bycatch allowance, 12:01AM on Friday, October 31, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

10/23/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for Scup to 18,000 pounds/vessel/day beginning the next sub-period opening on November 1, 2014; and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Black Sea Bass to 50 pounds/vessel/day beginning the next sub-period opening on November 1, 2014 [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing]. RIMFR - SHELLFISH 13.11, 13.17 - To establish winter shellfish harvest schedules for 2014 - 2015 in the following Shellfish Management Areas: Bissel Cove/Fox Island, Bristol Harbor, Potowomut, and High Banks; and section 13.17: for the establishment of closed areas within Ninigret Pond Shellfish Management Area for the purposes of oyster restoration activities. [This regulation amendment becomes effective 11/12/14]. RIMFR - COMMERCIAL AND RECREATIONAL SALTWATER FISHING LICENSING REGULATIONS 6.7-4, 6.7-6, 6.7-11, 6.8-2(b), 6.8-3(c), 6.8-4(b), 6.9-2(d), 6.9-3(c), 6.8-9, 6.8-11, 6.8-3, 6.8-6 - Section 6.7-4 -License Renewals, Transitions, and Upgrades: to offer opportunity to Over 65 license holders to upgrade their license to a CFL w/Quahaug endorsement; section 6.7-6 -Issuance of New Licenses and Endorsements; Prioritization: to add clarification for prioritization of licenses/endorsements; section 6.7-11 -Demonstration and Verification of Actively Fishing and Actively Participating Standards: to clarify provisions for crew member prioritization; sections 6.8-2(b), 6.8-3(c), 6.8-4(b), 6.9-2(d), and 6.9-3(c): to remove Gear Declaration from the License application; section 6.8-9 - Dockside Sales Endorsement: to clarify provisions of the Dockside Sales endorsement; section 6.8-11 - Paper Catch and Effort Harvester Logbook Endorsement: Changes to provisions of the Paper Logbook Endorsement regarding declaration of Reporting Method & Renewal Deadline; and section 6.8-3 - Principal Effort License, and section 6.8-6 -65 and Over Shellfish License: to clarify provisions of PEL license with all shellfish endorsements for license holders over the age of 65. [This regulation amendment becomes effective 11/12/14]. ADOPTION OF 2015 SECTOR MANAGEMENT PLANS 2015 Finfish Sector Plan 2015 Shellfish Sector Plan 2015 Crustacean Sector Plan

10/15/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This action OPENS the commercial general catagory fishery for Striped Bass at 5 fish/vessel/day beginning 12:01AM on Sunday, October 19, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

10/3/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This action CLOSES the commercial general catagory fishery for Striped Bass beginning 12:01AM on Tuesday, October 7, 2014; and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Summer flounder to 100 lbs/vessel/day beginning Monday, October 6, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

9/25/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This action CLOSES the commercial directed fishery for Atlantic Herring in management Area 3 , 2,000 lbs/vessel/calendar day bycatch allowance, beginning 12:01AM on Friday, September 26, 2014; and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Summer flounder to 150 lbs/vessel/day beginning Sunday, September 28, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

9/8/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass beginning 12:01 AM on Thursday, September 11, 2014, [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

8/25/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to DECREASE the possession limit in the commercial fishery for Summer flounder to 50 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on Tuesday, August 26, 2014, [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

8/14/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to CLOSE the Aggregate Program for the commercial Summer flounder fishery beginning 12:01 AM on Friday, August 17, 2014, until further notice; and to INCREASE the possession limit from 4,000 lbs/vessel/calendar day to 5,000 lbs/vessel/day for the commercial Spiny dogfish fishery, beginning 12:01AM on September 8, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

7/25/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial fishery for Coastal Sharks, the Non-Blacknose Small Coastal Shark and Blacknose Coastal Shark Species Groups, at 12:01 AM on Tuesday July 19, 2014, until further notice. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

7/22/14

PARTS IV, V, VI, VIII, IX, XVIII - This filing REPEALS the following RIMF regulations: Part IV - Shellfish; Part V - Bay Scallops; Part VI - Dredging for Shellfish; Part VIII - Oyster Regulations; Part IX - Shellfish Buyer's License - Statutes; and Part XVIII - Shellfish Grounds. and ADOPTS new regulations that incorporate all regulatory and management aspects of the above named regulations that were repealed titled ?Rhode Island Marine Fisheries Regulations ? Shellfish?. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

7/11/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.1.4 - This filing CLOSES the commercial fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area at 12:01 AM on Monday July 14, 2014; and CLOSES the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery at 12:01 AM on Tuesday July 15, 2014. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

6/26/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial general catagory Striped Bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on Sunday, June 29, 2014 [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

6/2/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on Tuesday, June 3, 2014 until the next sub-period begins on July 1, 2014 at fifty (50) pounds per vessel per calendar day.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/29/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action is to OPEN the commercial Menhaden fishery, in State waters outside the Menhaden Management Area, at 120,000 pounds/vessel/daybeginning 12:01 AM on Tuesday, May 30, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/27/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial directed fishery for Atlantic Herring in management Area 1B beginning 12:01 AM on Tuesday, May 28, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/22/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Menhaden in State Waters outside the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area (allows for a 6,000 pound per vessel per calendar day bycatch allowance) beginning 12:01 AM on Friday, May 23, 2014, until further notice.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/19/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Tautog fishery beginning 12:01 AM on Tuesday, May 20, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/15/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1-4 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Horseshoe Crab fishery beginning 12:01AM on Saturday, May 17, 2014.This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Tautog fishery beginning 12:01 AM on Tuesday, May 20, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing]. PART XV MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 15.14.2 and 15.14.2-12 - This filing is regarding LCMA 2 Lobster Effort Control Program and transfer of Lobster Trap allocation. [This regulation amendment becomes effective on 6/5/14].

5/9/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1-4 - This filing is to OPEN the commercial Menhaden fishery in the Narragansett Management Area at 120,000 pounds/vessel/day beginning 12:01AM on Monday, May 12, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

5/8/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL From the March 25th, 2014 public hearing: 3.0 - The entire document was ammended to remove the section regarding the description of Shellfish Management Areas; and for general editing.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon 5/28/14.] PART IV SHELLFISH 4.5.9 and 4.10 Correction of two technical errors delineating the borders of the Bristol Harbor Shellfish Management Area; Conch management measures; and general editing. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon 5/28/14.] PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.8.1, 7.11.1, 7.14.1, and 7.24 Winter Flounder recreational management measures; Scup recreational management measures; Black Sea Bass recreational management measures; Coastal Shark management measures; and general editing [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon 5/28/14.] PART XII STRIPED BASS 12.3, 12.4, and 12.5.4 Striped Bass commercial management measures; Black Sea Bass recreational management measures; an allocation roll-over provision from floating fish trap to general category commercial Striped Bass; the season for commercial Striped Bass; and general editing. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon 5/28/14.] PART XVI MENHADEN REGULATIONS 16.2.5(c), 16.3.1, and 16.4(d) Possession limit during closure of the Menhaden Management Area; measures clarifying Menhaden in non-directed fisheries; specification of an end date for the Episodic Event Set Aside Program; and general editing. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon 5/28/14.]

4/17/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 1,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on April 20, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

4/10/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to CLOSE the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on Sunday, April 13, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

4/3/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 1,500 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 200 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on April 6, 2014.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

3/19/14

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.22.2 - This filing is to make a TECHNICAL REVISION to the marine fisheries minimum sizes of fish/shellfish regulations to eliminate any confusion with regard to the regulation allowing for the recreational filleting of Cod which expired on June 30, 2012.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/14/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to DECREASE the possession limit to 100 lbs/vsl/day for the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery beginning 12:01AM on Wednesday March 19, 2014;[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/7/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to DECREASE the possession limit to 250 lbs/vsl/day for the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery beginning 12:01AM on Thursday February 10, 2014;[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/27/14

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to DECREASE the possession limit to 500 lbs/vsl/day for the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery beginning 12:01AM on Thursday January 30, 2014;[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/10/14

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.5 and 7.6 - This filing is to make a TECHNICAL REVISION to the marine fisheries minimum sizes of fish/shellfish regulations to repeal duplicative sections for Striped Bass, Atlantic Sturgeon, Eel, Scup, and Weakfish, which are addressed in other sections of the RI Marine Fisheries regulations.

2013

12/24/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to INCREASE the possession limit to 700 lbs/vsl/day for the commercial Summer Flounder fishery beginning 12:01AM on Wednesday December 25, 2013; and to open certain species groups of coastal sharks beginning January 1, 2014 consistent with the ASMFC Interstate Fisheries Management Plan for Atlantic Coastal Sharks.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/19/13

From the September public hearing: 2014 Finfish Sector Plan 2014 Shellfish Sector Plan 2014 Shellfish Sector Plan From the November public hearing: Part VII - Minimum Sizes of Fish/Shellfish: Section 7.7.1 regarding the commercial quota for Summer Flounder; section 7.11 regarding the commercial quota for Scup; section 7.16 regarding the commercial quota for Black Sea Bass; section 7.16 regarding the management of American Eel; and section 7.24 regarding the management of Coastal Sharks. Part XI - Commercial Fisheries: Section 11.17 regarding the removal of the October closure provision for Atlantic Herring. Technical Revisions: Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulations: Section 6.8-11, regarding the Paper Catch and Effort Harvester and Dockside Sales Logbooks Endorsement; Part XV - Lobsters, Other Crustaceans, and Horseshoe Crabs: Section 15.24.3, regarding clarification on language regarding the prohibition of possession of non-indigenous horseshoe crab species; Part XIX ? Fish/Shellfish Dealer Regulations: Section 19.15, regarding clarification on language regarding the prohibition of importation or possession of non-indigenous horseshoe crab species.

12/13/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to INCREASE the possession limit to 500 lbs/vsl/day for the commercial Summer Flounder fishery beginning 12:01AM on Saturday December 14, 2013.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/6/13

Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulations Licensing Regulations - This filing is to make a TECHNICAL REVISION to the marine fisheries licensing regulations clairifing the terms of the non-resident landing permit with restricted finfish.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/26/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing is to DECREASE the possession limit to 350 lbs/vsl/day for the commercial Summer Flounder fishery beginning 12:01AM on November 27, 2013, This filing also CLOSES the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass beginning December 2, 2013 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/20/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial fishery for striped bass at 5 fish/vsl/day beginning 12:01AM on November 24, 2013, for five (5)days, closing 12:01AM, November 29, 2013. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. Part IV - Shellfish 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.27, 4.28 - This action amends the 2013-2014 winter shellfish harvest schedule for the following Shellfish Management Areas: Greenwich Bay, Bissel Cove/Fox Island, Bristol Harbor, Potowomut, and High Banks. [This regulation becomes effective 12/10/2012]

11/12/13

Public Hearing Filings Part IV - Shellfish 4.35 - regarding commercial and recreational Conch regulations Part VII - Minimum Sizes of Fish/Shellfish 7.6, 7.26, 7.27, 7.28, 7.29, and 7.30 regarding commercial and recreational regulations for American Plaice, Haddock, Pollock, Witch Flounder(Grey Sole), and Yellowtail Flounder;7.8.3 regarding transiting provisions for Winter Flounder; 7.17 regarding the harvest of American Shad; 7.21 regarding a "whole weight" definition for Monkfish; 7.22 regarding commercial regulations for Cod. Part X - Equipment Restrictions 10.12 - regarding trawling ground gear Part XIII - Gill Net Regulations 13.4 - regarding location and marking of gillnets Part XV - Lobsters, Other Crustaceans, and Horseshoe Crabs 15.20.3 - regarding a seasonal closure in LCMA 6 Part XVI - Menhaden Regulations 16.3 - regarding landing of Menhaden in RI under State Quota Program and establishment of an Episodic Event Set Aside Program Part XIX - Fish/Shellfish Dealer Regulations 19.15 - regarding the prohibition of importation or possession of nonindigenous Horseshoe Crab species Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulations Sec 6.1-1 - regarding amended fishery designations for Scup and Winter Flounder; Sec 6.1-10 regarding calculations for exit/entry ratios; Sec 6.8-11 regarding establishment of a Paper Catch and Effort Harvester and Dockside Sales endorsement; and Sec 6.10 regarding consolidation of Landing License categories.

11/12/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This filing DECREASES the possession limit to 500 lbs/vsl/day for the commercial Summer Flounder fishery beginning 12:01AM on November 15, 2013; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial directed fishery for Tautog; beginning 12:01AM on October 31, 2013; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/28/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial directed fishery for Atlantic Herring in management Area 2; beginning 12:01AM on October 29, 2013; and DECREASES the possession limit for the commercial Black Sea Bass fishery to 50 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01AM on November 1, 2013; [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/22/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the Atlantic Herring directed fishery in management Area 3; INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial Scup fishery to 25,000 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01AM on October 24, 2013; and INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial Scup fishery for the Winter Period II sub-period (November - December) to 8,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01AM on November 1, 2013beginning 12:01 AM on October 18, 2013. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/16/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the Atlantic Herring directed fishery in management Area 1A beginning 12:01 AM on October 18, 2013. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/16/13

PART XV Lobster, Other Crustaceans, and Horseshoe Crabs 15.24.3 - This filing adopts regulatory AMENDMENTS in order for state regulations to be in compliance with federal requirements by prohibiting the possession of non-indigenous (non-native) horseshoe crab species within the State of Rhode Island. [This regulation becomes effective Nov 5, 2013].

10/11/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial Scup fishery to 20,000 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01 AM on October 13, 2013; and also CLOSES the commercial fisheries for non-sandbar large coastal sharks (LCS) and small coastal sharks (SCS) at 12:01AM October 1, 2013 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/7/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the possession limit for the commercial Summer Flounder fishery beginning 12:01 AM on October 10, 2013. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/27/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial Scup fishery to 15,000 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01 AM on September 29, 2013; and also CLOSES the commercial fisheries for non-sandbar large coastal sharks (LCS) and small coastal sharks (SCS) at 12:01AM October 1, 2013 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/20/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the general catagory commercial fishery for striped bass at 12:01 AM on September 22, 2013 for a single day, closing 12:01AM Monday, September 23, 2013 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/13/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general catagory commercial fishery for striped bass at 12:01 AM on September 17, 2013 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/10/13

PART IV SHELLFISH 4.12.3-1 - This action adopts a regulatory amendment to extend the prohibition on the harvest or possession of oysters in the Quonochontaug Pond Shellfish Management Area from September 15, 2013 to September 15, 2016. This regulation becomes effective September 15, 2013.

9/4/13

PART XIX FISH/SHELLFISH DEALER REGULATIONS 19.15 - This action re-adopts regulatory amendments via emergency rule making to maintain the prohibition on the possession and/or importation of non-indigenous (non-native) horseshoe crab species within the State of Rhode Island. This amendment will be offered at public hearing on September 18, 2013.[These regulation amendments become effective September 10, 2013].

8/30/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial fishery for black sea bass at 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on September 1, 2013 until 12:01 AM on September 4, 2013. At 12:01 AM on September 4 the fishery will CLOSE until the next sub period begins on November 1, 2013. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/23/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action ENDS the commercial Summer aggregate landing program for summer flounder and decreases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day,beginning 12:01AM on August 25th, 2013, [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

8/13/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial fishery for Menhaden in State Waters outside the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area at 120,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01AM on August 14th, 2013, until further notice. [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

8/7/13

PART XV LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.24.3(c) - This emergency filing adopts regulatory AMENDMENTS via emergency rule making in order to come into compliance with federal requirements by prohibiting the possession of non-indigenous (non-native) horseshoe crab species within the State of Rhode Island. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

7/25/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Menhaden in State Waters outside the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area (allows for a 6,000 pound per vessel per calendar day bycatch allowance) beginning on 12:01 AM Sunday, July 28, 2013, until further notice; and also CLOSES the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass beginning 12:01, Wednesday , July 31, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

7/1/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial possession limit for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area beginning on 12:01 AM Wednesday, July 3, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

6/25/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general catagory commercial fishery for Striped Bass beginning on 12:01 AM Thursday, June 27, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

6/21/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 350 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on June 23, 2013. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/20/13

PART XVI MENHADEN REGULATIONS 16.3-16.5 - This action AMENDS Part XVI – Menhaden Regulations in order to comply with Amendment 2 of the Atlantic States Marine Fishery Council (ASMFC) fishery management plan for menhaden. [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

6/14/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial bait fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area effective on 12:01 AM Monday, June 17, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

6/7/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area effective on 12:01 AM Monday, June 10, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

5/31/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for BLACK SEA BASS effective on 12:01 AM on June 3, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

5/24/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for SCUP to 5,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week, beginning 12:01 AM on Sunday, May 26, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

5/17/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial bait fishery for MENHADEN in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area beginning 12:01 AM on May 20, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

5/10/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 12, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

5/1/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for for horseshoe crabs beginning 12:01 AM on May 4, 2013 [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

4/23/13

PART XIX FISH/SHELLFISH DEALERS 19.14.3(8) - This action AMENDS Part XIX - Fish/Shellfish Dealer Regulations by adding a requirement for seafood dealers to report research set aside (RSA) by using the â€œdispositionâ€ field in the Standard Atlantic Fisheries Information System (SAFIS), and to update regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes. [These regulation amendments become effective on May 13, 2013].

PART XIX FISH/SHELLFISH DEALERS 19.15 - This action RE-ADOPTS regulatory AMENDMENTS via emergency rule making in order to come in to compliance with federal requirements by prohibiting the possession and/or importation of non-indigenous (non-native) horseshoe crab species within the State of Rhode Island. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

4/18/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action ENDS the commercial Winter 1 aggregate landing program for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on April 21, 2013, and the commercial possession limit for summer flounder will decrease to 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day. This action also CLOSES the commercial black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on April 21, 2013. [These regulation amendments become effective upon filing].

4/12/13

PART XIX FISH/SHELLFISH DEALERS 19.15 - This emergency filing adopts regulatory AMENDMENTS via emergency rule making in order to come into compliance with federal requirements by prohibiting the possession and/or importation of non-indigenous (non-native) horseshoe crab species within the State of Rhode Island. [These regulations become effective on May 1, 2013].

4/11/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possesion limit for summer flounder to 1,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 200 pounds per vessel per calendar day, this action also DECREASES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 200 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on April 14, 2013.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.4, 7.11.4, 7.11.4-4, and 7.14.2 - These actions AMEND the recreational management plans for summer flounder, black sea bass, and scup, including adding section 7.11.4-4 which establishes a recreational scup experimental shore mode for specific areas. [These regulations become effective on May 1, 2013].

4/8/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the Atlantic herring directed fishery in Management Area 2, beginning 12:01 AM on April 9, 2013.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

3/27/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action sets the commercial possession limit for spiny dogfish to 3,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on March 28, 2013, then commencing on May 1, 2013, increases the commercial possession limit to 4,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

3/22/13

PART IV SHELLFISH 4.27 and 4.28 - These actions AMEND the Shellfish Management Area regulations by modifying the shellfish harvest schedule for High Banks and Potowomut Management Areas by opening these areas to shellfishing commencing on May 1, 2013. [These regulation amendments become effective on April 11, 2013].

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15 and 7.24 - These actions AMEND regulations governing the management plans for spiny dogfish, and coastal sharks, from the Non-Sandbar Large Coastal Sharks species group in order to come in to compliance with federal requirements for 2013. [These regulation amendments become effective on April 11, 2013].

PART XII STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action AMENDS the commercial management plan for striped bass in the general category sector, and updates regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes. [These regulations become effective on April 11, 2013].

PART XV LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.20.3(4) and 15.20.3(5) - These actions AMEND regulations governing the lobster fishery in order to come into compliance with federal requirements for mandatory v-notching of certain female lobsters in LCMA 4 and LCMA 5 along with establishing season closures for the landing of lobsters in theses areas from February 1 through March 31. [These regulation amendments become effective on April 11, 2013].

2/28/13

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 300 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on March 3, 2013. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

PART VI DREDGING FOR SHELLFISH Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulations 6.8-10(c) and 6.8-10(e) - This action is a technical revision to Sections 6.8-10(c) and 6.8-10(e) of the â€œCommercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulationsâ€ to insert wording which references â€œfor state quota monitoring speciesâ€ which inadvertently was left out. It was never the intent of the Department to require an RSA endorsement for non-quota monitoring species this technical revision clarifies the intent. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

1/16/13

PART XV Lobster,Other Crustaceans, and Horseshoe Crabs 15.20.3(4) and 15.20.3(5) - This emergency filing adopts regulatory Amendments via emergency rule making in order to come into compliance with federal requirements for mandatory v-notching of certain female lobsters in LCMA 4 and LCMA 5 along with establishing season closures for the landing of lobsters in theses areas from February 1 through March 31. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing].

2012

12/31/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.8, 3.9 - This action ADOPTS regulatory amendments to allow more flexibility to adjust seasons in order to effectively comply with federal marine fishery management plans, and to update regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes. [These regulation amendments become effective on 01/20/2013].

12/26/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action ESTABLISHES the opening dates for the 2013 Atlantic commercial shark fisheries beginning 12:01 AM on January 1, 2013, to comply with federal requirements. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/18/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on December 20, 2012, and CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on December 24, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/17/12

PART I Legislative Findings 1.3 - This action adopts regulatory amendments to address harvest methods and habitat impacts by incorporating new definitions, and updates regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes.[This regulation becomes effective upon 01/06/13].

PART IV Shellfish 4.1, 4.11.1-3 - These actions amend the shellfish regulations by removing redundant language that already appears in the Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulations, clarifies daily possession limits in section 4.11.1-3 (Conimicut Point Shellfish Management Area), and updates regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes.[This regulation becomes effective upon 01/06/13].

PART VI Dredging for Shellfish 6.1, 6.2, 6.4 - These actions amend the shellfish dredging regulations to update regulations and regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes.[This regulation becomes effective upon 01/06/13].

PART XVIII Shellfish Grounds 18.6, 18.10 - These actions amend regulations governing shellfish grounds to prevent the operation of devices capable of harvesting shellfish in polluted areas (section 18.6), and updates regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes.[This regulation becomes effective upon 01/06/13].

12/12/12

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7,7.11,7.15,7.19 - These actions amend the the commercial management plans for summer flounder, scup, spiny dogfish, and Atlantic herring, and make a technical revision to clarify in sections 7.7 and 7.11 the maintenance of logbook copies kept on vessels. [This regulation becomes effective 01/01/2013].

12/11/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 500 pounds beginning 12:01 AM on December 12, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/28/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 150 pounds beginning 12:01 AM on November 30, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/21/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 350 pounds beginning 12:01 AM on November 24, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/8/12

2013 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS New Regulations - that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2013, vessel-based regulations, and implementation of the recreational saltwater fishing licensing regulations have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Commercial and Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Regulations". [These regulations become effective on 11/28/2012]. This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans (also effective on 11/28/2012): Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector; Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

11/5/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action closes the directed fishery for Atlantic Herring in Management Area 1A beginning 12:01 AM on November 7, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/31/12

PART IV MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 4.10.4, 4.22.2, 4.24.3, 4.27.3, and 4.28.4 - This action AMENDS the 2012-2013 winter shellfish harvest schedule for the following Shellfish Management Areas; Greenwich Bay, Bristol Harbor, Bissel Cove/Fox Island, Pottowamut, and High Banks, and removes expired language. [This regulation becomes effective 11/20/2012].

10/24/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action increases the possession limit for the general catagory commercial scup fishery to 8,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day, and decreases the possession limit forh the commercial black sea bass fishery to 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on November 2, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/5/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action closes the directed fishery for Atlantic Herring in Management Area 3 beginning 12:01 AM on October 7, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/14/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 700 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on September 16, 2012. This action also INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial scup fishery to 50,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week, beginning 12:01 AM on September 17, 2012. This action also CLOSES the general category commercial striped bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on September 19, 2012.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/6/12

PART XV LOBSTER OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORESESHOE CRABS 15.20.3(2)(F) - This action is to make a technical revision to Section 15.20.3(2)(F) of the Rhode Island Marine Fisheries Regulations - Part XV – Lobster, Other Crustaceans, and Horseshoe Crabs by inserting the wording “legal-sized” in section 15.20.3(2)(F), which was inadvertently left out, and will clarify and accurately reflect the intent of this section as it pertains to the v-notching of certain female lobsters in LCMA 2.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/9/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the possession limit for summer flounder fishery to 350 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on August 12, 2012, This action also extends the season closure for commercial black sea bass until the next sub period begins on November 1, 2012, with a possession limit of 250 pounds per vessel calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/27/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass beginning 12:01 AM on July 30, 2012, [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/12/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general catagory commercial scup fishery to 30,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week, beginning 12:01 AM on July 15, 2012, [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/2/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for thegeneral catagory commercial scup fishery to 20,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week, beginning 12:01 AM on July 3, 2012, [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/22/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for striped bass general catagory, effective 12:01 AM on June 26, 2012, [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/19/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for menhaden, in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area effective 12:01 AM on June 20, 2012, This action also OPENS the non-sandbar large coastal shark (LCS) species group effective 12:01 AM on July 15, 2012[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/11/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial bait fishery for menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area at 120,000 lbs./vessel/calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on June 12, 2012 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/8/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for thegeneral catagory commercial scup fishery to 20,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week, beginning 12:01 AM on June 10, 2012, [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/5/12

5/29/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for the porbeagle sharks of the Pelagic Shark Species Group of the Coastal Sharks, effective 12:01 AM on May 31, 2012, [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/25/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass, effective 12:01 AM on May 29, 2012, and also INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial scup fishery to 10,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on May 27, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/14/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial bait fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area beginning 12:01 AM on May 15, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/11/12

PART XVI MENHADEN REGULATIONS 16.2.8 - This action AMENDS the regulations governing the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Plan by amending section 16.2.8, and to update regulatory citations in Part XVI for consistency with certain statutory changes. [This regulation becomes effective May 31, 2012].

PART XV LOBSTER OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORESESHOE CRABS 15.20.3(2)(F), 15.20.3(3)(A) - This action AMENDS the regulations governing the Lobster Management Plan for mandatory v-notching of all egg bearing female lobsters in LCMA 2 and establishes a minimum gauge size of 3-17/32 inches (89.69 mm) for LCMA 3 as conservation equivalency methods for complying with Addendum XVII to Amendment 3 of the ASMFC Interstate Fishery Management Plan, as well as adopting certain technical revisions to update language and remove expired language, and update regulatory citations for consistency with certain statutory changes. [This regulation becomes effective May 31, 2012].

5/2/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog effective 12:01 AM on May, 5, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/27/12

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH AND SHELLFISH 7.8.1-2(a), 7.8.3-2(b) - This action is a technical revision to Sections 7.8.1-2(a) and 7.8.3-2(b) of the Rhode Island Marine Fisheries Regulations - Part VII - Minimum Sizes of Fish/Shellfish in order to include the water body Potter Pond, in South Kingstown, RI, within those waters of the state in which the harvest or possession of winter flounder is prohibited. Potter Pond had inadvertently been left out.[These regulations become effective April 12, 2012].

4/23/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for horseshoe crabs beginning 12:01 AM on April, 25, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/18/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial summer flounder possession limit beginning 12:01 AM on April, 21, 2012, to 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/13/12

PART IV SHELLFISH 4.35 - This action Amends the regulations governing the taking of conch (Channeled Whelk â€“ Busycon canaliculatus and Knobbed Whelk - Busycon carica) by increasing the legal minimum shell size to 2-3/4 inches in diameter or a shell length not less than 4- 3/4 inches, and sets both commercial and recreational harvesting provisions.[This regulation becomes effective on May 3, 2012].

4/13/12

PART I LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This action makes a Technical revision to section 1.3 - Definition of Terms to correct the spelling of the species canaliculatus in the definition of conch.[This regulation becomes effective on May 3, 2012].

4/12/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action ENDS the commercial Winter 1 aggregate landing program for Summer Flounder at 12:01 AM on April 15, 2012, and the commercial possession limit for summer flounder drops to 500 pounds per vessel per calandar day, this action also CLOSES the commercial black sea bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on April 16, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/29/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer Flounder to 1,500 pounds per vessel per calandar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit or 300 pounds per vessel per calendar day , this action also DECREASES the commercial possesion limit for black sea bass to 250 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on April 1, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/23/12

PART XII STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action AMEND the commercial management plan for Striped Bass in the general catagory sector, and makes a technical revision to section 12.5 [This regulation becomes effective on April 12, 2012].

3/23/12

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH AND SHELLFISH 7.7.4, 7.11.4, 7.14.2, 7.25 - These actions AMEND the recreational management plans for Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass. These actions also adopt commercial and recreational regulations for the Skate fishery, and make a technical revision to modify Section 7.22.2-1(b) in order to change "this section" to read as part of Section 7.22.2-1(a). [These regulations become effective April 12, 2012].

3/22/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for the Summer Flounder to 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer aggregate landing permit or 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on March 25, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/01/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for the Summer Flounder to 2,500 pounds per vessel per calendar week with a summer aggregate landing permit or 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on March 4, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/28/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action closes the Atlantic Herring directed fishery in Management Area 1B beginning 12:01 AM on March 1, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/20/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action closes the Atlantic Herring directed fishery in Management Area 2 beginning 12:01 AM on February 22, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/31/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action opens the commercial fisheries for species in the small coastal shark (SCS) and pelagic shark species groups beginning 12:01 AM on February 1, 2012; and sets the opening date for the non-sandbar large coastal shark (LCS) for July 15, 2012, to comply with federal requirements. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/17/12

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for the Black Sea Bass Fishery to 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on January 11, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2011

12/21/11

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fisheries for small coastal sharks (SCS) and the pelagic sharks species group of the Coastal Sharks, beginning 12:01 AM on January 1, 2012. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/16/11

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial black sea bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on December 19, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/12/11

PART IV SHELLFISH 4.27 - This action is a technical revision to the 2011-2012 Shellfish Management Areas winter shellfish harvesting schedule which updates the obsolete harvest schedule for Potowomut Shellfish Management Area (section 4.27) as was previously filed for all other Shellfish Management Areas. The Potowomut schedule had been inadvertently left out. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/12/11

PART VII MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7, 7.11, 7.14, 7.21, 7.22 - These actions amend the commercial management plans for summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, and monkfish and terminates the summer flounder sector allocation pilot program for the 2012 season by repealing section 7.7.11. This action also establishes a 14 inch minimum size cod fillet for the recreational sector, and updates language, removes irrelevant or expired language, as well as a technical revision to section 7.11.2-1 which inserts the word Ã¢â‚¬Å“dayÃ¢â‚¬Â to clarify it references a daily possession limit.[This regulation becomes effective 01/01/2012].

12/02/11

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial black sea bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on December 4, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/18/11

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial black sea bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on November 21, 2011. This action also CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog as of 12:01 AM on November 24, 2011[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/14/11

PART III MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial Tautog fishery beginning 12:01 AM on November 16, 2011. This action also CLOSES the commercial fishery for the non-sandbar large coastal shark (LCS) group as of 12:01 AM on November 15, 2011[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/10/11

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, and 4.28 - This action AMENDS the 2011-2012 winter shellfish harvest schedule for four Shellfish Management Areas; Greenwich Bay, Bristol Harbor, Bissel Cove/Fox Island, and High Banks, and removes expired language.[This regulation becomes effective 11/30/2011]

11/10/11

2011 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commerical licensing system for 2012 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Commerical Fishing Licensing Regulations". [This regulation becomes effective on 11/30/2011] This body of regulations requires the folling three companion Management Plans:[also effective 11/30/2011]

11/3/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possesion limit for summer flounder to 1,000 lbs/vessel/calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on November 6, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/26/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the Atlantic Herring fishery in management Area 1A, beginning 12:01 AM on October 27, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/25/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possesion limit for the general category commercial scup fishery and the commercial scup floating fish trap to 8,000 lbs/vessel/calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on November 2, 2011. This action also sets the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 600 lbs/vessel/calendar day, and ends the summer flounder aggregate landing program beginning 12:01 AM on November 1, 2011. This action DECREASES the commercial possesion limit for black sea bass to 50 lbs/vessel/calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on November 2, 2011, and this action also CLOSES the commercial striped bass floating fish trap fishery beginning 12:01 AM on October 28, 2011, and CLOSES the commercial Menhaden fishery beginning 12:01 AM on October 28, 2011[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/21/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possesion limit for summer flounder to 1,000 lbs/vessel/calendar day or 5,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit, beginning 12:01 AM on October 23, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/12/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possesion limit for the general category commercial scup fishery to 40,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on October 9, 2011. This action also INCREASES the possesion limit for summer flounder to 600 lbs/vessel/calendar day or 3,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit, 12:01 AM on October 16, 2011. This action also OPENS the commercial bait fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area at 120,00 lbs/vessel/calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on October 14, 2011[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/5/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possesion limit for the general category commercial scup fishery to 30,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on October 9, 2011. This action also INCREASES the possesion limit for summer flounder to 400 lbs/vessel/calendar day or 2,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit, 12:01 AM on October 9, 2011.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

10/3/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES Area 1B and Area 3 Atlantic Herring fishery beginning 12:01 AM on October 5, 2011.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

9/26/11

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.4-2 and 7.11.4-3 This emergency filing adopts regulatory AMENDMENTS via emergency rule making in order to extend the recreational season for scup until December 31. [This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing]

9/23/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for summer flounder to 300 lbs/vessel/calendar day or 1,500 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on September 25, 2011.[This regulation amendment becomes effective upon filing]

9/13/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the summer flounder fishery to 250 lbs/vessel/calendar day or 1,250 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on September 18, 2011. This action also INCREASES the possession limit for general catagory commercial scup fishery to 25,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on September 19, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/2/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for general catagory commercial scup fishery to 20,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on September 4, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/31/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for striped bass general catagory beginning 12:01 AM on September 6, 2011.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/30/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial porbeagle shark fishery beginning 12:01 AM on August 31, 2011. This action also CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 2, 2011. This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 200 pounds per vessel per calendar day or 1,000 pounds per vessel per calendar week (if the vessel is permitted for the summer flounder aggregate program) beginning 12:01 AM on September 4, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/25/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial spiny dogfish fishery beginning 12:01 AM on September 1, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/23/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial spiny dogfish fishery beginning 12:01 AM on August 26, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/11/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial scup fishery to 13,000 lbs/vessel/calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on August 14, 2011. This action also CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area beginning 12:01 AM on August 14, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/28/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for general category scup to 7,500 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01 AM on July 31, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/18/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 150 pounds per vessel per day or 750 pounds per vessel per week (if permitted for the summer aggregate program) beginning 12:01 AM on July 24, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/30/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for general category scup to 5,000 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01 AM on July 4, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/28/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for general category striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on June 30, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/13/11

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.2 and 7.11.2 - These actions amend the recreational fishery management plan for black sea bass by setting a minimum 13 inch total length, maximum 12 fish bag limit, and a season from July 11 through December 31 and also amends the commercial fishery management plan for general category scup by setting the beginning starting possession limits per the April 18, 2011 public hearing which was between 0 and 3,500 lbs/vessel/calendar week for each sub-period. [This regulation becomes effective on July 3, 2011].

6/3/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on June 7, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/24/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action Opens the commercial fishery for menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area beginning 12:01 AM on May 25, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/13/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 15, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/10/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for horseshoe crabs beginning 12:01 AM on May 11, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/4/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial fishery for scup to 3,500lbs per vessel per calendar week, beginning 12:01 AM on May 8, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

04/28/11

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.3 through 4.9, 4.11.1, 4.12, 4.21(a), 4.31 - These actions adopt regulatory AMENDMENTS for the soft-shell clam fishery in order to accomplish the following (1) establish a Conimicut Point Shellfish Management Area; (2) establish a soft-shell clam possession limit within the Conimicut Point Shellfish Managament Area of 3 bushels per day per license holder; (3) increase the minimum legal size of soft-shell clams from a diameter of 1-1/2 inches to 2 inches statewide; and (4) modifies Section 4.31, Tagging of Shellfish, in accordance with Part XVII - Maps. In addition technical amendments were incorporated in order to correct grammatical errors. [This regulation becomes effective on May 18, 2011].

PART XVII - MAPS Map#10 - This action AMENDS Part XVII - Maps, by adding the RI Shellfish Harvest Area Tagging Map. [This regulation becomes effective on May 18, 2011].

04/15/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commerical fishery for black sea bass effective 12:01 AM on April 18, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

04/14/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commerical possession limit for the black sea bass fishery to 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on April 16, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

04/14/11

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action AMENDS the commerical management plans for striped bass in the general category sector.[This regulation becomes effective on May 4,2011].

04/14/11

PART XVI - MENHADEN 16.2 - These actions AMEND the commerical management plan for menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area.[This regulation becomes effective on May 4,2011].

04/8/11

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.2-1 - This action CLOSES the recreational black sea bass fishery until the 2011 recreational management plan for black sea bass has been promulgated. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

04/8/11

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7, 7.7.4-1,7.8, and 7.9 - These actions amend the recreational management plans for summer flounder, winter flounder, and tautog, and amends the commercial management plans for winter flounder, and tautog. A technical revision was made to Section 7.7 to update the date to the current year. The year had inadvertently not been changed to reflect 2011. [These regulations become effective on April 28, 2011].

3/3/11

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action amends the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on March 3, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

2010

12/29/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.21(a) This emergency re-adopts regulatory amendments via emergency rule making in order to increase the minimum legal size of soft-shell clams from a diameter of 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches statewide. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/29/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.8, 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.27, and 4.28 These actions make amends to better regulate the management of the areas that have been previously designated as a Shellfish Management Area.[This regulation becomes effective on 01/18/2011].

12/29/10

PART XIV - FISH TRAPS 14.1 and 14.1-1 This action amends the mailing address in section 14.1 and adds section 14.1-1 to clarify existing regulations which prohibit the sub-leasing of permitted fish trap locations. [This regulation becomes effective on 01/18/2011].

12/29/10

2011 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commerical licensing system for 2011 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Commerical Fishing Licensing Regulations". [This regulation becomes effective on 01/18/2011] This body of regulations requires the folling three companion Management Plans:[also effective 01/18/2011]

12/29/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action amends the commercial possession limit for summer flounder, general category commerical scup fishery and the commerical scup floating fish trap fishery beginning 12:01 AM on January 1, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/15/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial fishery for the Small Coastal (SCS) and Pelagic Sharks beginning 12:01 AM on January 1, 2011; and Non-Sandbar Large Coastal Sharks (LCS) beginning 12:01 AM on July 15, 2011. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/10/10

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7, 7.7.11, 7.7.12, 7.11, 7.14 - These actions amend the commercial management plans for summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass, and amend the summer flounder sector allocation pilot program for the 2011 season. [These regulations become effective on December 30, 2010].

12/06/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for the large coastal sharks beginning 12:01 AM on December 6, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/2/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial fishery for summer flounder to 1,000 lbs per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on December 3, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/24/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.8, 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.27, 4.28, and 4.30 These actions amend the shellfish management area regulations by; setting the 2010-2011 winter shellfishing harvest schedule for the following Shellfish Mangement Areas: Greenwich Bay, Bristol Harbor, Bissels Cove/Fox Island, Potowomut, and High Banks Management Areas; reinstates the description of the High Banks Shellfish Management Area, this inadvertently had been removed; divides the Greenwiich Bay (GB) Shellfish Management Area into separate sub-areas, (Area 1, 2, and 3), sets the 2011 winter harvest schedule for GB Area "1"; and updates, clarifies, and removes expired language.[This regulation becomes effective on December 14, 2010].

11/24/10

11/16/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commerical fishery for summer flounder to 2,000 lbs per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on November 17, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/08/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial fishery for the Area 1A Atlantic Herring to 2,000 lbs per vessel, per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on November 9, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/03/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for the small coastal sharks species group beginning 12:01 AM on November 4, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the floating fish trap commerical fishery for scup effective 12:01 AM on October 31, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commerical fishery for scup effective 12:01 AM on October 31, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/27/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commerical fishery for summer flounder to 1,000 lbs per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on November 7, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/27/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commerical fishery for black sea bass to 100 lbs per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on November 2, 2010, and CLOSES the commerical fishery for black sea bass effective 12:01 AM on November 7,2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/27/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commerical fishery for tautog effective 12:01 AM on October 29, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/22/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commerical possession limit for summer flounder to 800 lbs per vessel per calendar day and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for monkfish to 50 lbs tail weight or 166 lbs whole weight per vessel per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on October 24, 2010.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/15/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the general category commercial fishery for scup to 25,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01 AM on October 17, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/8/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial scup fishery to 10,000 lbs/vessel/week and INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 600 lbs/day, beginning 12:01 AM on October 10, 2010.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/8/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the aggregate landing program for summer flounder effective 12:01 am on October 10, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/30/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial scup fishery to 5,000 lbs/vessel/week and INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 300 lbs/day or 1,000 lbs/week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit, beginning 12:01 AM on October 3, 2010.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/29/10

PART V - BAY SCALLOPS 5.8.4 and 5.8.5 - This action is a technical revision to the bay scallop regulations to remove one reference to the wording ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚Â¬Ãƒâ€¦Ã¢â‚¬Å“bay scallopsÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚Â¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â in section 5.8.4, which was inadvertently inserted, and inserts the wording ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚Â¬Ãƒâ€¦Ã¢â‚¬Å“Except as providedÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚Â¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â in section 5.8.5 to clarify and accurately reflect the intent of these sections which pertain to the use of dredges and the towing of dredges during closed seasons. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/24/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial Floating Fish Trap fishery for Striped Bass beginning 3:00 PM on September 24, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/15/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the Area 1B Atlantic herring fishery beginning 12:01 AM on September 15, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/15/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on September 19, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/15/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on September 19, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/3/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on September 5, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/2/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commerical fishery for porbeagle sharks beginning 12:01 AM on September 5, 2010.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/31/10

PART V - BAY SCALLOPS 5.2, 5.3, 5.6, and 5.8 - This action amends the bay scallop opening season, dip net harvest season, use of scallop dredges in shellfish management areas, amend the commerical bay scallop daily possession limit to 3 bushels per day, and routine clarification of regulatory language or removal of expired language. [This regulation becomes effective on September 20, 2010].

8/31/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.8, 4.12.2 These actions amend the shellfish management area regulations by; establishing an area within Quonochontaug Pond as a spawner sanctuary and placing a three year oyster harvest moratorium in Quonochontaug Pond; establishing an area with in Potter Pond (Sycamore Cove) as a spawner sanctuary; and establishing an oyster harvest moratorium in Bissell Cove/Fox Island Shellfish Management Area; and routine clarification of regulatory language.[This regulation becomes effective on September 20, 2010].

8/31/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.21(a) This emergency re-adopts regulatory amendments via emergency rule making in order to increase the minimum legal size of soft-shell clams from a diameter of 1 1/2 inchest to 2 inches statewide. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/27/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commerical fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 1, 2010, until the next sub period begins on November 1, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/27/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action opens the general category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 13, 2010 then CLOSES the general category striped bass effective 12:01 am on Tuesday, September 14, 2010, until the next fishing season begins on June 6, 2011. Note: This will be only a one day opening.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/27/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on August 29, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/20/10

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, and 7.4 - This action makes a technical revision to remove duplicate language from Sections 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, and 7.4, which exists in RI Marine Fisheries Statues and Regulations - Part IV - Shellfish, Section 4.21. [These regulations become effective upon filing].

8/20/10

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.1 , 7.14.2-2, and 7.20 - These actions amend the recreational management plans for black sea bass, and tautog. A technical revision was also made to section 7.20 (River Herring) to correct the penalty cited in Section 7.20 to reflect RIGL 20-3-3. The penalty cited was a type error. [These regulations become effective on September 9, 2010].

8/20/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on August 22, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/20/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on August 25, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/13/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.13 - This emergency regulation eliminates the Conimicut Soft-Shell Clam Management Area established by emergency regulation, filed on August 5. [These regulations become effective upon filing].

8/5/10

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.1(a) - This emergency adopts regulatory amendments via emergency rule making in order to increase the minimum legal size of soft-shell clams from a diameter of 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches statewide. [These regulations become effective upon filing].

8/5/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.13 and 4.21(a) - This emergency adopts regulatory amendments via emergency rule making in order to (1) establishing the Conimicut Point area as a Soft-Shell Clam Management Area and to (2) increasing the minimum legal size of soft-shell clams from a diameter of 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches statewide. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/4/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on August 8, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/23/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on July 25, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/6/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on July 8, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/29/10

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.10 - This action INCREASES the recreational possession limit for bluefish to 15 fish per person per day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/24/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial fishery for summer flounder to 50lbs/day or 250 lbs/week with a summer flounder aggregate landing permit, beginning 12:01 AM on June 27, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/15/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on June 17, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/11/10

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.8 - This action amends Section 4.8 in order to clarify the shellfish regulations for Shellfish Management Areas by eliminating certain language that refers to the designation of Shellfish Management Areas as expiring five years from the filing date of the document with the Secretary of State, and further amends Section 4.8 to reiterate the Director 's statutory authority to modify those areas that are designated as Shellfish Management Areas. [This regulation becomes effective on July 1, 2010].

6/7/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Mangement Area beginning 12:01 AM on June 8, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/26/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial fishery for the small coastal sharks species group beginning 12:01 AM on June 1, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/21/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial bait fishery for Menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Mangement Area beginning 12:01 AM on May 24, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/12/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for horseshoe crabs beginning 12:01 AM on May 16, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/6/10

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.6 and 7.7.11 - This action AMENDS the Summer Flounder Sector Allocation Pilot Program for the 2010 commercial summer flounder fishery. [These regulations become effective on May 26, 2010].

4/30/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 3, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/27/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 1,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 28, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/19/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action TERMINATES the winter 1 aggregate program and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for scup to 1,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 21, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/15/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 700 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 16, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.27, and 4.28 - This EMERGENCY action amends the specified Shellfish Management Area regulations to enable partial recovery of lost commercial shellfishing days due to recent closures of state waters due to flooding. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/9/10

PART XVI - MENHADEN 16.1 and 16.2 - This action AMENDS the commercial management plan for menhaden in the Narragansett Bay Menhaden Management Area. [This regulation becomes effective on April 29, 2010].

4/8/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action TERMINATES the winter 1 aggregate program and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 200 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 11, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7, 7.8, 7.11, 7.14, 7.18, and 7.24 - These actions AMEND the recreational management plans for summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, winter flounder, and weakfish and AMEND the commercial management plans for weakfish, winter flounder, and scup (floating fish traps). [These regulations become effective on April 28, 2010]. PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES 11.19 - This action REPEALS the commercial management plan language for winter flounder in this section because it has been moved in to Part 7 of the marine fisheries regulations. [This regulation becomes effective on April 28, 2010]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 and 12.4 - This action AMENDS the commercial management plans for striped bass in both the general and floating fish trap sectors. [This regulation becomes effective on April 28, 2010]. PART XVII - MAPS 17.0 - This action REPEALS the map for the winter flounder Coastal Marine Life Management Area as this area designation has become irrelevant due to regulation changes that occurred on December 8, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective on April 28, 2010].

3/25/10

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.25 - This action is a TECHNICAL REVISION to the commercial Lobster management plan that reinserts dropped language regarding licensing requirements to meet eligibility criteria for the groundline conversion program in section 15.25.1 C. [This regulation becomes effective 04/06/2010].

3/17/10

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.25 - This action AMENDS the commercial Lobster management plan to establish eligibility criteria for commercial fishers, engaged in the harvest of lobsters with traps in Lobster Management Area 2, to obtain vouchers for the purchase of sinking groundline. [This regulation becomes effective 04/06/2010].

3/1/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass beginning 12:01 AM on March 4, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/11/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action RESCINDS the commercial fishery closure for Black Sea Bass and sets the possession limit back at 400 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on February 12, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/9/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Black Sea Bass beginning 12:01 AM on February 12, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/20/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for the black sea bass fishery to 400 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 am on January 23, 2010. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.2 - This action CLOSES the recreational fishery for black sea bass until the 2010 recreational regulations are promulgated. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/7/10

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fisheries for the Non-Sandbar Large Coastal Sharks (LCS) Species Group, and the Small Coastal Sharks (SCS) Species Group to comply with federal reguirements, and removes expired language. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

2009

12/16/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 400 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on December 18, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/15/09

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1, 7.11.2-2, 7.14.1-2, 7.15, 7.24 - These actions AMEND the commercial management plans for the summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, spiny dogfish, and coastal shark fisheries. [This regulation becomes effective January 3, 2010].

12/8/09

2008 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2010 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans:

[These regulations become effective 12/28/09] PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 200 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on December 9, 2009. This action also CLOSES the commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on December 9, 2009. This action also AMENDS the commercial possession limit for area 2 atlantic herring to allow vessels to harvest atlantic herring as allowed by their federal permit beginning 12:01 AM on December 10, 2009.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.8.1 and 7.8.3 - These actions AMEND the recreational management plan for winter flounder to 2 fish per person per calendar day and AMENDS the commercial management plan for winter flounder by setting a season, a minimum size of 12", and a possession limit of 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [These regulations become effective on December 28, 2009]. PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES 11.19.4 - This action AMENDS the commercial management plan for winter flounder in the CMLMA to 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day . [This regulation becomes effective on December 28, 2009].

11/24/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Area 1A Atlantic herring to 2,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on November 26, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/13/09

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.27, and 4.28 - This action amends the 2009-2010 shellfish harvesting schedule for five Shellfish Management Areas; Greenwich Bay, Bristol Harbor, Bissel Cove ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚Â¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã…â€œ Fox Island, Potowomut, and High Banks Management Areas. [This regulation becomes effective on 12/3/09].

11/6/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on November 8, 2009. This action also DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on November 8, 2009.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/30/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action amends the language for the commercial scup fishery to read 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on October 31, 2009. This action also DECREASES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on November 4, 2009.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/5/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial floating fish trap and general category fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on October 6, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/23/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial floating fish trap fishery for scup to 300 pounds per licensee per day beginning 12:01 AM on September 24, 2009. This action also CLOSES the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on September 27, 2009.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/17/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial floating fish trap fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 18, 2009. This action also CLOSES the commercial general category fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 21, 2009.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/11/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial general category possession limit for scup to 400 pounds per vessel per calendar week beginning 12:01 AM on September 13, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/27/09

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.35 - This action adopts minimum size limits for both the recreational and commercial Conch (Whelk) fishery in state waters. [This regulation becomes effective on 9/16/09].

8/25/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial floating fish trap possession limit for striped bass to 300 pounds per fish trap licensee per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM on August 27, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/19/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the floating fish trap commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on August 21, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/17/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the floating fish trap commercial possession limit for striped bass to 500 pounds per licensee per day beginning 12:01 AM on August 19, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/14/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on August 17, 2009 and DECREASES the general category commercial possession limit for scup to 200 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01 AM on August 16, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/7/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on August 9, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/26/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for general category striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on June 29, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/18/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for general category scup beginning 12:01 AM on June 21, 2009 as well as CLOSES the commercial fishery for menhaden in the Narragansett Bay menhaden management area effective 12:01 on June 19, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.5 - This technical revision reinserts some dropped language regarding the allocation amount and minimum size for the floating fish trap striped bass fishery. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/10/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for horseshoe crabs beginning 12:01 AM on June 11, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/5/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limits for the summer flounder and general category scup fisheries beginning 12:01 AM on June 7, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/1/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for the floating fish trap scup fishery beginning 12:01 AM on June 2, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/28/09

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.4, 7.7.11, and 7.11.2 - These actions amend the recreational management plan for summer flounder, amend the sector allocation pilot program, and amend the starting possession limits for the commercial scup fishery. [These regulations become effective on June 17, 2009]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action amends the start date for the commercial striped bass fishery in the fall. [This regulation becomes effective on June 17, 2009].

5/15/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on May 18, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/13/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 14, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/1/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the general category commercial possession limit for scup to 1,000 lbs/vessel/week beginning 12:01 AM on May 3, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/24/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 500 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 26, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/16/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 2,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 17, 2009. This action also DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Area 2 Atlantic herring to 2,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 17, 2009. This action also INCREASES the commercial possession limit for spiny dogfish to 3,000 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on May 1, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/10/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 750 lbs/vessel/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 12, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/8/09

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.28 - This action amends the closing schedule for the High Banks, Greenwich Bay, Bristol Harbor, and Bissle Cove/Fox Island shellfish management areas to close on April 28, 2009 in order to accomodate the shellfish transplanting schedule. [This regulation becomes effective on 4/28/09].

4/3/09

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This action promulgates the definitions that correspond with a coastal shark management plan in state waters. [This regulation becomes effective on April 23, 2009]. PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 3,000 lbs/week with permit or 300 lbs/day without permit beginning 12:01 AM on April 5, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.21, 7.22, 7.23, and 7.24 - These actions amend the commercial fisheries for monkfish, cod, and sea scallops to reflect the same possession limits as are in place in federal waters. These actions also promulgate a coastal shark management plan in state waters. [These regulations become effective on April 23, 2009].

3/18/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action TERMINATES the commercial aggregate landing program for scup and DECREASES the commercial possession limit for scup to 1,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on March 19, 2009. This action also INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 2,000 pounds per vessel per week if permitted in the aggregate landings program or 200 pounds per vessel per day without an aggregate permit, beginning 12:01 AM on March 22, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/20/09

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on February 23, 2009. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.4 - This action CLOSES the recreational fishery for summer flounder effective February 21, 2009 until the 2009 recreational management plan is promulgated. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/27/09

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.28 - This action amends the opening schedule for the High Banks shellfish management area. [This regulation becomes effective on 2/16/09]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7 - This action promulgates a Summer Flounder Sector Allocation Pilot Program for the 2009 commercial summer flounder fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 2/16/09].

1/16/09

2009 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS This action adopts the following three companion Management Plans to the licensing regulations (effective 2/5/09):

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector
Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

2008

12/23/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 1,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on December 24, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/12/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 350 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on December 13, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1, 7.7.2, 7.7.5, 7.14.1 - These actions amend the commercial management plans for black sea bass and summer flounder including removing the call in requirement for summer flounder fishers and changing starting possession limits for the commercial black sea bass fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 1/1/09].

12/8/08

2009 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2009 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". (These regulations become effective 12/28/08)

11/25/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on November 26, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4, 4.22.2, 4.24.3, 4.27.3, and 4.28.3 ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚Â¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã…â€œ These actions amend the 2008 harvesting schedules for the following Shellfish Management Areas: Bristol Harbor, Bissel Cove-Fox Island, Potowomut A, High Banks, and Greenwich Bay. [This regulation becomes effective December 15, 2008].

11/18/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for Area 1A Atlantic Herring to 2,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on November 19, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/10/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on November 12, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/3/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on November 5, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/31/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 100 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on November 3, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on November 1, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/7/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on October 8, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/6/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the floating fish trap category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on October 7, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/3/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on October 5, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/29/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on September 30, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/23/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 24, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/29/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on September 1, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/19/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on August 20, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/7/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 50 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on August 8, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/16/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 50 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on July 18, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/18/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on June 20, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/13/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the commercial floating fish trap fishery for scup to 2,500 lbs/licensee/day beginning 12:01 AM on June 14, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/11/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait fishery for horseshoe crabs beginning 12:01 AM on June 12, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/10/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the commercial floating fish trap fishery for scup at 5,000 lbs/licensee/day beginning 12:01 AM on June 11, 2008 and then drops the possession limit to 300 lbs/licensee/day beginning 12:01 AM on June 14, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/9/08

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.20.3 - These actions amend the commercial lobster management plan by implementing a maximum gauge size in areas 3, 4, 5, and 6. [This regulation becomes effective 6/29/08].

6/6/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial floating fish trap fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on June 10, 2008. This action also DECREASES the possession limit for the commercial fishery for summer flounder to 50 lbs/day or 250 lbs/week with an aggregate permit beginning 12:01 AM on June 8, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10 - This action amends the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Management Area regarding replacement days for the harvesting of shellfish. 4.22.2, 4.24.3 and 4.28.3 - This action amends the Bristol Harbor Transplant Area, Bissel Cove - Fox Island Transplant Area, and High Banks Transplant Area, to remove expired language. [These regulation changes become effective on June 26, 2008].

5/22/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial floating fish trap fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on May 24, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/19/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the floating fish trap commercial fishery for scup to 5,000 pounds beginning 12:01 AM on May 20, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/9/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commercial fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on May 11, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/8/08

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.20.3 - This technical revision inserts the area 2 maximum gauge size language in a section that was missed during a previous filing. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/6/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 7, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/1/08

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.6 and 7.11.2 - These technical revisions correct the minimum size for recreational scup and correct bullet numbering in one section. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/29/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for spiny dogfish to 3,000 pounds/day beginning 12:01 AM on May 1, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/18/08

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.11.1 and 15.14.1 - These actions amend the commercial lobster management plan by implementing a maximum gauge size in area 2, specifying a federal permit area in one section, and changing the trap tag effective date to June 1. [This regulation becomes effective 5/8/08]. PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 200 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on April 19, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/11/08

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.4, 7.11.2, 7.11.4, and 7.22.2 - These actions amend the recreational management plan for scup and summer flounder, implements an aggregate landing limit for the commercial scup fishery in the summer, and amends the commercial cod language for federal permit holders. [This regulation becomes effective 5/1/08]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action amends the quota rollover date for the commercial general category fishery for striped bass. [This regulation becomes effective 5/1/08]. PART XVI - MENHADEN 16.1 - This action amends the menhaden management plan in RI. [This regulation becomes effective 5/1/08].

4/8/08

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.22.2, 4.24.3, and 4.28.3 - These actions amend the last shellfish harvest date from April 30 to April 25 to accommodate the 2008 quahaug transplant in Bissel, Bristol, and High Banks Shellfish Management Areas. [This regulation becomes effective 4/28/08].

3/20/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 1,000 pounds/week if permitted for the aggregate program or 100 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 23, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/13/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for scup to 1,000 pounds/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 16, 2008. This action also terminates the scup aggregate program for the winter 1 sub period. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.21.1 - This action amends the commercial management plan for monkfish by changing the possession limit in state waters and changing the restrictions on where federally permitted vessels can fish. [This regulation becomes effective 4/2/08]. 7.9 - This action amends the commercial and recreational management plan for tautog by changing quota overage provisions and the beginning date and bag limits for the recreational fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 4/2/08].

3/6/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action DECREASES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 200 pounds/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 9, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/28/08

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 2,000 pounds/week if permitted for the aggregate program or 200 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on March 2, 2008. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/11/08

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10, 4.22, 4.24, 4.27 - This action sets the opening schedule for the Greenwich Bay Management area and makes some technical amendments to the other shellfish management areas.[This regulation becomes effective on January 31, 2008].

1/4/08

Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector This technical revision amends the shellfish sector management plan to reflect the most up to date version of the plan. An old version was inadvertently filed. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2007

12/20/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on December 25, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/7/07

2008 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2008 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". (These regulations become effective 12/27/07) This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans (effective 12/27/07):

11/29/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on November 30, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/19/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on November 20, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/22/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the floating fish trap category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on October 23, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/18/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial fishery for scup to 2,000 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on October 19, 2007. This action also maintains the CLOSURE on the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on November 1, 2007.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/10/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on October 11, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/1/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on October 3, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/27/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action OPENS the general category commercial fishery for striped bass at 3 fish/vessel/day, beginning 12:01 AM on October 1, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/21/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial fishery for scup to 1,000 lbs/day, beginning 12:01 AM on September 23, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/13/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the possession limit for the general category commercial fishery for scup and increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass, both to 500 lbs/day, beginning 12:01 AM on September 16, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/6/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the general category commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 7, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.5 - This action amends the commercial fishery management plan for the floating fish trap sector of the striped bass fishery. The action lowers the legal minimum size to 26" and decreases the quota allocation for that sector by 1% to compensate. [This regulation becomes effective September 26, 2007].

8/24/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder and increases the commercial possession limit for scup (general category fishery) and black sea bass to 300 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on August 26, 2007. This action also CLOSES the bait fishery for horseshoe crabs beginning 12:01 AM on August 27, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/17/07

RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE MANAGEMENT OF MARINE FISHERIES 6.7-8 - This action REPEALS the fishing atcivity requirement for the transfer of license upon sale of vessel and gear regulation. [This regulation becomes effective September 6, 2007].

8/1/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2 - This action amends the season for the commercial fishery for tautog to end on December 31 rather than December 15. [This regulation becomes effective August 21, 2007]. 7.18 - This action amends the commercial and recreational possession limits for weakfish to comply with the mandates as set forth in the ASMFC fishery management plan for weakfish. [This regulation becomes effective August 21, 2007]. PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.24 - This action amends the language for the horseshoe crab fishery to bring the section in to compliance with the new marine fisheries licensing statutes. [This regulation becomes effective August 21, 2007].

7/31/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action maintains the possession limit at 200 lbs/day for the commercial fishery for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on August 1, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/3/07

PART XVI - MENHADEN REGULATIONS 16.1.1 - This EMERGENCY action imposes a daily possession limit and reporting requirements for the commercial menhaden fishery beginning July 3, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/21/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action decreases the possession limit to 100 lbs/day for the commercial general category fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on June 22, 2007 and CLOSES the commercial general category fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on June 24, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/14/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action decreases the possession limit to 50 lbs/day or 250 lbs/week with an aggregate permit for the commercial fishery for summer flounder and increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 200 lbs/day beginning 12:01 AM on June 17, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/25/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action decreases the possession limit to 5,000 lbs for the commercial floating fish trap fishery for scup beginning 12:01 AM on May 28, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/23/07

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This technical revision removes several definitions relating to the lobster fishery. The definitions were moved in to Part XV of the RI Marine Fisheries Regulations. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 24, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/11/07

PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES 11.12 - This action amends the escape vent dimensions for black sea bass pots. [This regulation becomes effective May 31, 2007] PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action amends the commercial fishery management plan for the striped bass general category to begin the season on June 1, closed days on Friday and Saturday, and a new 5 fish per vessel possession limit. [This regulation becomes effective May 31, 2007].

4/30/07

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.2.1 - This action INCREASES the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish to 3,000 lbs/day for state only vessels beginning 12:01 AM on May 1, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/27/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action amends the commercial fishery for summer flounder to institute an aggregate landings program in the summer beginning June 1, 2007. The amendment also imposes a Friday/Saturday closure to commercial summer flounder fishing beginning on June 1, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective on May 17, 2007] 7.7.7 - This action amends the summer flounder exemption certificate program to correlate better with the transfer provisions for federal permits. [This regulation becomes effective on May 17, 2007] 7.7.4 - This action sets the recreational management plan for summer flounder with a season of May 18 through September 16, a 19" minimum size, and a 7 fish bag limit. [This regulation becomes effective on May 17, 2007] 7.11.2 - This action amends the floating fish trap set aside allocation of scup from 10% to 12%. [This regulation becomes effective on May 17, 2007] 7.15.1 - This action amends the commercial spiny dogfish starting possession limit to 2,000 pounds per vessel per day. [This regulation becomes effective on May 17, 2007]

4/13/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on April 14, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/11/07

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.14 - This amendment promulgates the updated Lobster Effort Control Plan for Area 2. [This regulation becomes effective on May 1, 2007.]

3/23/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 and 7.7.4- This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 500 pounds per vessel per day or 3,000 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01 AM on March 25, 2007. This action also closes the recreational fishery for summer flounder effective April 1, 2007 until the 2007 recreational management plan is promulgated. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/21/07

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This amendment promulgates the 1/8" v-notch definition for female lobsters . [This regulation becomes effective on April 10, 2007.] PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.20 - This amendment promulgates the 1/8" v-notch definition for female lobsters . [This regulation becomes effective on April 10, 2007.]

2/23/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 400 pounds per vessel per day or 2,000 pounds per vessel per week beginning 12:01 AM on February 25, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/2/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action is a technical revision to the commercial possession limit for summer flounder that clarifies the language making the daily possession limit 200 pounds for the commercial fishery during the winter 1 fishery. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/23/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 200 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on January 24, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XIV - FISH TRAPS 14.5 and 14.7 - This action removes the US Coast Guard requirements for the floating fish trap companies and updates the regulations with the most recent fish trap site locations. [This regulation becomes effective on 2/12/07].

1/8/07

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15.2 - This action closes the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on January 9, 2007. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

2006

12/28/06

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This Emergency Action Extension extends the v-notch definition for female lobsters for an additional 90 days beyond the original 120 day emergency filing. The extension takes effect on January 11, 2007. PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSHOE CRABS 15.20 - This Emergency Action Extension extends the v-notch definition for female lobsters for an additional 90 days beyond the original 120 day emergency filing. The extension takes effect on January 11, 2007.

12/12/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action alters the Winter 1 commercial management plan for summer flounder to reflect the industry recommended possession limit decreases in Winter 1. [This regulation becomes effective 1/1/07] 7.21 - This action promulgates state waters regulations for monkfish that includes a commercial and recreational possession limit (50 lbs of tails/day; 166 lbs of whole fish/day) and minimum size (11" tails; 17" whole fish). [This regulation becomes effective 1/1/07]. 7.22 - This action promulgates state waters regulations for cod that includes a commercial and recreational possession limit (75 lbs/day commercial; 10 fish/day recreational) and minimum size (22"). [This regulation becomes effective 1/1/07]. 7.23 - This action promulgates state waters regulations for sea scallops that includes a commercial and recreational possession limit (40 lbs/day shucked; 5 bushels/day in shell) and minimum size (3.5"). [This regulation becomes effective 1/1/07].

12/5/06

2007 MARINE FISHERIES LICENSING REGULATIONS New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2007 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". (These regulations become effective 12/25/06) This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans (effective 12/25/06):

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.10.2 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for bluefish beginning 12:01 AM on December 6, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/22/06

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.24 - This action CLOSES the commercial bait and recreational fishery for Horse Shoe Crabs beginning November 25, 2006 at 12:01 AM.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

11/21/06

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4 - This action opens the Eastern Greenwich Bay management area on an annual basis, sets the opening schedule for December 2006 in the Western Greenwich Bay Management area, and sets the process for developing the Western Greenwich Bay Management Area opening schedule on an annual basis. [This regulation becomes effective on December 11, 2006].

11/14/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for spiny dogfish to 2,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on November 15, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/31/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup to 6,500 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on November 1, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing] 7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 2,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on November 1, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.15.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for spiny dogfish to 600 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on November 1, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 and 12.5 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for striped bass for all gear types including floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on November 4, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/27/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.19.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Atlantic herring beginning 12:01 AM on October 28, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/23/06

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This action changes the definitions section to reflect the newly adopted ASMFC addendum 7 regulations for lobsters. The new definitions take effect on November 12, 2006.[This regulation becomes effective on 11/12/06]. PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSHOE CRABS 15.14.2 - This action changes the lobster regulations to reflect the changes required by ASMFC addendum 7 to the lobster fishery management plan. The new regulations take effect on November 12, 2006.[This regulation becomes effective on 11/12/06]

10/6/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 100 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on October 8, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup to 4,000 pounds per vessel per day for gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on October 8, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 2,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on October 8, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/25/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15.2 - This action closes the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on September 27, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/22/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 1,000 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on September 23, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action opens the commercial fishery for striped bass at 3 fish per license holder per day for all gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on September 27, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/14/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup to 2,000 pounds per vessel per day for gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on September 16, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/12/06

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This EMERGENCY action changes the v-notch definition for female lobsters to a more conservative definition in order to protect the currently v-notched lobsters for a longer period of time. The new definition takes effect on September 12, 2006.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSHOE CRABS 15.20 - This EMERGENCY action changes the v-notch definition for female lobsters to a more conservative definition in order to protect the currently v-notched lobsters for a longer period of time. The new definition takes effect on September 12, 2006.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing]

9/1/06

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial fishery for striped bass for all gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on September 6, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/29/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 50 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on August 30, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/15/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 100 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on August 16, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/1/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup to 1,000 pounds per vessel per day for gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on August 2, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 500 pounds per vessel per day beginning 3:00 PM on August 1, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/26/06

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSHOE CRABS 15.11.1 and 15.20.3 - This action removes the scheduled minimum gauge and escape vent increase for lobsters in area 2 and RI state waters. [This regulation becomes effective 8/15/06].

7/12/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on July 13, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 500 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on July 13, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/7/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup for all gear types other than floating fish traps to 500 pounds per vessel per day beginning 12:01 AM on July 8, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/23/06

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial fishery for striped bass for all gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on June 25, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/13/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on June 14, 2006 to 50 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/25/06

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This action is an amendment to the definitions that clarifies the meaning of the colregs line of demarcation. [This regulation becomes effective 6/14/06]. PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES 11.19 - This action is an amendment to the Coastal Marine Life Management Area which redefines the boundaries and rules governing this area.[This regulation becomes effective 6/14/06].

5/12/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.1 - This action is an amendment to the Tautog recreational fishery that alters the season with a June closure and extends the 3 fish bag season until October 21st. [This regulation becomes effective 6/1/06]. 7.11.4 - This action is an amendment to the Scup recreational fishery that opens the season for all sectors on June 1.[This regulation becomes effective 6/1/06].

5/9/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for Tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 10, 2006. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/28/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.1 - This action updates the regulatory language for shellfish to reflect current statutory language. [This regulation becomes effective 5/18/06]. 7.9.2 - This action changes the commercial start date for tautog for the summer sub period to July 15. [This regulation becomes effective 5/18/06]. 7.20 - This action replaces the emergency action for river herring and adds in the new river herring section to RI regulations. The language currently reflects a moratorium on possession, catch, landing, and take[This regulation becomes effective 5/18/06]. PART XII - Striped Bass 12.3 - This action changes the commercial start date for the general category striped bass sector to June 10. [This regulation becomes effective 5/18/06]. PART IV - Shellfish 4.21 - This action updates the regulatory language for shellfish to reflect current statutory language. [This regulation becomes effective 5/18/06].

4/21/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on April 22, 2006 to 100 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/22/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.20 - This EMERGENCY action PROHIBITS the catch, take, landing, and possession of river herring in marine waters beginning on March 22, 2006.[This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

3/17/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action ENDS the commercial fishery aggregate landing program for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on March 19, 2006. The possession limit drops to 500 lbs/day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/28/06

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This action stems from the 11/7/05 public hearing and establishes definitions for the new state dealer regulations for SAFIS . [This regulation becomes effective 3/20/06].

1/20/06

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action stems from the 11/7/05 public hearing and alters the aggregate landing program for summer flounder from a 1 week program to a 2 week program [This regulation becomes effective 2/9/06]. 7.11.2 - This action stems from the 11/7/05 public hearing and changes the commercial floating fish trap fishery for scup [This regulation becomes effective 2/9/06]. 7.7.5, 7.9.4, 7.10.3, 7.11.2, 7.11.3, 7.11.5, 7.14.1 - These actions stem from the 11/7/05 public hearing and add in references to the new state SAFIS regulation section [This regulation becomes effective 2/9/06]. PART XIX - FISH/SHELLFISH DEALER REGULATIONS 19.14 - This action stems from the 11/7/05 public hearing and establishes the new state dealer regulations for SAFIS . [This regulation becomes effective 2/9/06]. 2006 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHELLFISH FISHERY SECTOR This action makes a technical revision to the 2006 shellfish management plan. There were some incorrect licensing statistics in the original filing. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector;and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

2005

12/23/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on December 25, 2005. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.19 - This action closes the commercial fishery for Atlantic herring in area 1B beginning 12:01 AM on December 24, 2005. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/16/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on December 17, 2005 to 5,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/2/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on December 3, 2005 to 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/30/05

New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2006 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". (These regulations become effective 20 days from filing - 12/20/05) This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans (effective 12/20/05):

11/9/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass and summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on November 10, 2005 to 1,500 pounds and 1,000 pounds respectively per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/4/05

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.24.3 - This EMERGENCY action closes the Bissel Cove-Fox Island Transplant Area until the regularly scheduled opening date of the second Wednesday in December. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/1/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for scup beginning 3:00 PM on November 1, 2005 to 3000 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/21/05

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.24.3 - This EMERGENCY action opens the Bissel Cove-Fox Island Transplant Area temporarily to shellfishing from a boat on Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 12:00 PM until further notice. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/4/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on October 5, 2005 to 250 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4 - This action changes the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Management Area schedule to open on an annual basis for the summer harvest area beginning on October 24, 2005. [This regulation becomes effective October 24, 2005].

9/27/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 28, 2005 to 750 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup for gear types other than floating fish traps beginning 12:01 AM on September 28, 2005 to 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/14/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 15, 2005 to 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial fishery for striped bass beginning 12:01 AM on September 15, 2005 for all gear types other than floating fish traps. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/12/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on August 12, 2005 to 300 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

7/8/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.19 - This amendment creates a section for Atlantic herring in RI regulations governing the commercial harvest of Atlantic herring in RI. [This regulation becomes effective 7/28/05]. 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for summer flounder beginning 12:01 AM on July 9, 2005 to 150 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for scup beginning 12:01 AM on July 9, 2005 to 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.14.1 - This action increases the commercial possession limit for black sea bass beginning 12:01 AM on July 9, 2005 to 250 pounds per vessel per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/21/05

RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE MANAGEMENT OF MARINE FISHERIES This action enacts the dockside sale policy for lobster which creates a new endorsement for commercial lobster licenses allowing a license with endorsement holder to sell live lobsters at the dock. [This regulation becomes effective on July 11, 2005]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial fishery for striped bass for the general category fishery beginning 12:01 AM on June 23, 2005. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/17/05

RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE LANDING OF SHELLFISH IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND This emergency action regulates the landing of shellfish in Rhode Island to prevent the landing of shellfish which has been harvested in areas closed by governmental agencies due to the presence of red tide. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/3/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH

7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for scup for the floating fish trap sector beginning 12:01 AM on June 4, 2005 to 1,000 pounds per fish trap licensee per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/1/05

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.11 and 15.20 - This action is an amendment to the schedule for commercial lobster gauge increases that removes the July 1, 2005 increase of 1/32" [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

5/24/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7 - This action is a technical revision to the supercede number on the 5/24/05 filing of Part VII that was incorrectly written as 3576 on the original filing, it should have read 3567 [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/23/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession limit for scup for the floating fish trap sector beginning 12:01 AM on May 24, 2005 to 10,000 pounds per fish trap licensee per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/16/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial fishery for tautog beginning 12:01 AM on May 17, 2005 until August 1, 2005 at which point the possession limit will be 10 fish per vessel per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/6/05

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 and 12.5 - This action is an amendment to change the striped bass floating fish trap quota roll over date to the general category fishery from October 15 to October 1. The 10,000 pound floating fish trap set aside will be available on October 15 to the general category fishery [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES 11.19.1 - This action is an amendment to the mesh size requirements for the winter flounder fishery. The minimum mesh size will be 6.5" for harvesting winter flounder in state waters [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.12.4 - This action is an amendment to the Ninigret Pond spawner sanctuary which expands the spawner sanctuary boundaries from a triangle to a rectangle in the western section of the pond [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS 10.11 - This action is an amendment to the Scup gear requirements which increases the minimum mesh requirement to 5" for the scup fishery from May 1 through October 31 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.8.1 - This action is an amendment to the Winter Flounder recreational fishery which alters the season to open on the fourth Saturday in April, running for 30 days, and then to open on the last Saturday in September, running for 30 days [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.8.2 - This action is an amendment to the Winter Flounder commercial fishery which increases the minimum mesh size to 6.5" for harvesting winter flounder in state waters [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.11.4 - This action is an amendment to the Scup recreational fishery which alters the bag limit and season to 25 fish from July 1 through October 31 for the shore/private sectors and 25 fish from July 1 through August 31 ; 60 fish from September 1 through October 31 for the party/charter boat sector [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.14.1 - This action is an amendment to the Black Sea Bass commercial fishery which re-allocates the quota in the summer 2 (39%) and winter 2 (11%) sub periods [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.14.2 - This action is an amendment to the Black Sea Bass recreational fishery which opens the recreational fishery annually from January 1 through December 31 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.14.2 - This action is an amendment to the Shad fishery which prohinits the landing or possession of shad in state waters [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

4/26/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases commercial possession of summer flounder to 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day [from 1000 pounds per vessel per calendar day], effective at 1:00PM 4/26/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/18/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases commercial possession of summer flounder to 1,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day [from 500 pounds per vessel per calendar day], effective at 1:00PM 4/18/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/4/05

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action is a technical revision to clarify the summer flounder aggregate program. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.24.3 - This EMERGENCY action opens the Bissel Cove-Fox Island Transplant Area temporarily to shellfishing from a boat until 4/30/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/5/05

PART XIV - FISH TRAPS 14.1 - 14.7 - This action amends regulations for the floating fish trap industry. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART XVII - MAPS MAPS 6a and 6b - This action amends the floating fish trap mapping. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector

2004

12/21/04

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4, 4.22.2, 4.24.3, 4.27 and 4.28 - This action alters the harvest schedule for boat shellfish harvesting in Greenwich Bay, Bristol Harbor, Bissel Cove, Potowomut Shellfish, and High Banks management areas during the 2004 holiday season. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

12/13/04

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4 and 4.27 - This action clarifies language regarding boat harvesting in Greenwich Bay and Potowomut Shellfish management areas. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FOR FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 and 7.11.2 - This action initiates an aggregate program for scup and summer flounder. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

11/24/04

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 and 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types beginning 12:01 AM 11/25/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/17/04

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 and 12.5 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types beginning 1:00 PM 11/17/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/12/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action alters the scheduled sub-period allocation for the commercial summer flounder fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery effective 12:01 AM 11/13/04. This fishery will reopen when the next sub-period begins 4/15/05. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.11.2 - This action alters the scheduled 11/1 sub-period opening possession limit for the commercial scup fishery to 3,500 lbs. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

11/03/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial summer flounder fishery to 1,000 lbs. [from the 11/1/04 sub-period opener of 450 lbs.], effective 1:00 PM on 11/3/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.11.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial scup fishery to 3,500 lbs. [from the 11/1/04 sub-period opener of 2,000 lbs.], effective 1:00 PM on 11/3/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.14 - This action reduces the possession limit for the commercial black sea bass fishery to 100 lbs. [from the 11/1/04 sub-period opener of 500 lbs.], effective 1:00 PM on 11/3/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types from 1:00 PM 11/3/04 through 12:01 AM 11/8/04 at which time and date the striped bass fishery will close to all gear types. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/22/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial summer flounder fishery to 1,000 lbs. [from 500 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 10/23/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.11.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commercial scup fishery to 500 lbs. [from 100 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 10/23/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types other than floating fish traps for three days effective 12:01 AM 10/23/04 through 12:01 AM 10/26/04 at which time and date the striped bass fishery will close to all gear types INCLUDING floating fish traps see section 12.5. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/08/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commerical summer flounder fishery to 500 lbs. [from 300 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 10/09/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/10/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the possession limit for the commerical summer flounder fishery to 300 lbs. [from 200 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM on 9/13/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the striped bass fishery for all gear types other than floating fish traps, effective at 12:01 AM on 9/13/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/03/04

PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.11.1 - This action is a technical revision to re-insert a line that was inadvertently dropped during the 8/17/04 filing [This regulation becomes effective 9/6/04].

strong>8/17/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.2 - This action adjusts the recreational season for black sea bass [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (9/6/04)]. PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.11.1; 15.14.1; 15.20.3 - This action sets the schedule for increases in lobster gauge and escape vent sizes; and elminates the "Lobster Exemption Certificate" program for fishermen. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (9/6/04)].

8/12/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession for summer flounder to 200 lbs. [from 150 lbs.] for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 8/13/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/24/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession for summer flounder to 150 lbs. [from 100 lbs.] for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 6/25/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.11.2 - This action decreases the commercial possession for scup to 100 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.] for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 6/25/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/18/04

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for all gear types other than floating fish traps effective 12:01 AM 6/21/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/25/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action reduces the commercial floating fish trap possession limit of scup to 1,000 pounds per trap licensee, per calendar day [from 10,000 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 5/26/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/14/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery, effective 12:01 AM 5/17/04 until the 8/1/04 sub-period begins. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/13/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action reduces the commercial floating fish trap possession limit of scup to 10,000 pounds per trap licensee, per calendar day [from 25,000 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 5/14/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/16/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 750 pounds per vessel, per calendar day [from 300 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 4/17/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

4/2/04

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.27 - This action amends the boundaries and harvesting schedule of the Potowomut Shellfish Management Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 4.28 - This action modifies the harvesting schedule of the High Banks Shellfish Management Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action allows the commercial summer flounder aggregate landings emergency program to expire; 7.15.2 - allows the spiny dogfish aggregate landings program to expire; 7.7.4 and 7.11.4 - alters the recreational management plans for both scup and summer flounder; 7.11.2 - alters the management plan for the commercial floating fish trap scup fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.13.1 - This action increases the legal size for circular escape vents; and 15.14.1 - limits the number of trap tags allowed. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

3/5/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2- This action decreases the commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 300 pounds per vessel, per calendar day [from 700 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 3/6/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2/25/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2- This action terminates the aggregate landing program for the summer flounder commercial fishery. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

1/29/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1- This action is a technical revision to the percentage calculations of the quota allocation for the annual sub-periods of the summer flounder commercial fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

strong>1/05/04

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1- This action establishes an aggregate landing program for the summer flounder commercial fishery during the sub-period known as Winter I [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

2003

12/11/03

New regulations that establish the marine fisheries commercial licensing system for 2004 have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". (These regulations become effective 20 days from filing - 12/31/03) This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans that were filed on 11/7/03 (effective 11/27/03):

12/05/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2- This action increases the commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 1,000 pounds per vessel, per calendar day [from 450 lbs.] effective 12:01 AM 12/6/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/18/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2- This action closes the commercial tautog fishery effective 12:01 AM 11/19/03. This fishery will re-open April 15, 2004. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery, effective 12:01 AM 11/19/03. This fishery will re-open January 1, 2004. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

11/07/03

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.9.1 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1- This action adjusts commercial quota management for summer flounder for 2004 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.11.2 - This action adjusts commercial quota management for scup for 2004; and adds language that updates current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.14.1 - This action adjusts commercial quota management for black sea bass for 2004 [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART IX - SHELLFISH BUYER'S LICENSE - STATUTES 9.3 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.5.2 & 5.8.1 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 15.11.1 - This action makes permanent the emergency filing of 5/2/03 that implemented an exemption program for dealers or individuals that exclusively fish in ASMFC Lobster Management Area 3 to possess lobsters that are shorter than the minimum gauge size specified for Rhode Island. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 15.13.2 - This action amends the escape vent specifications for lobster pots. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing] 15.14.1 - This action adds language that updates the current AAD rules for appeal. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. Management Plans This action adopted 2004 management controls as required by section 6.2 of the "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries"

(These regulations become effective 20 days from filing) View CURRENT Licensing Regulations and Management Plans

11/03/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1- This action decreases the commercial possession of black sea bass to 100 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 500 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 11/04/03. This fishery is scheduled to begin a new sub-period on 1/1/04. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery with a 3-fish/day/license holder possession limit for all gear types except floating fish traps, effective 11/08/03 at 12:01 AM, until the remaining allotted annual quota is harvested. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/29/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2- This action decreases the commercial possession of scup to 1,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 4,000 lbs.] for all gear types except floating traps, effective 12:01 AM 10/30/03. This fishery is scheduled to begin a new sub-period on 11/1/03 with a 4,000 lb. possession limit per vessel, per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/24/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15.2- This action establishes an aggregate landing program for the commercial spiny dogfish fishery, effective 12:01 AM 10/26/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/23/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2- This action increases the commercial possession of scup to 4,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 300 lbs.] for all gear types except floating traps, effective 12:01 AM 10/24/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/20/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1- This action closes the commercial fishery for black sea bass for the remainder of this sub-period, effective 12:01 PM 10/21/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open Nov. 1, 2003 with a possession limit of 500 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/16/03

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action re-opens the commercial striped bass fishery to all gear types except floating fish traps from 10/16/03 at 2:00 PM through 10/25/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

10/16/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2- This action increases the commercial possession of scup to 300 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 100 lbs.] for all gear types except floating traps, effective 2:00 PM 10/16/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open on Nov. 1, 2003 with a possession limit of 2,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.14.1- This action reduces the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 50 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [from 100 lbs.], effective 2:00 PM 10/16/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open Nov. 1, 2003 with a possession limit of 500 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

9/11/03

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery to all gear types except floating fish traps, effective 12:01 AM 9/12/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

8/21/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2- This action closes commercial scup fishery for all gear types except floating traps, effective 12:01 AM 8/24/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open on Sept. 16, 2003 with a possession limit of 100 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/27/03

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery to all gear types except floating fish traps, effective 12:01 AM 6/29/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open 9/1/03 to harvest the remainder of the quota with a reduced possession limit of 3 fish per person, per day. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/19/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action closes the commercial summer flounder fishery, effective 12:01 AM 6/21/03. This fishery is scheduled to re-open 8/1/03 with a 150 lb. possession limit. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing]. 7.11.2- This action closes commercial scup for the floating trap fishery for the reminder of 2003, effective 12:01 AM 6/20/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/13/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2- This action reduces the commercial possession limit of scup for gear types other than floating traps to 100 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 6/14/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/09/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2- This action reduces the commercial possession limit of scup for the floating trap fishery to 2,000 lbs. [from 10,000 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 6/10/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/05/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1- This action reduces the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 50 lbs. [from 100 lbs.], effective 12:01 AM 6/6/03, until the quota is harvested or until August 1, 2003 when the possession limit is scheduled to be 100 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

6/02/03

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4 - This action adjusts the harvesting schedule for a portion of the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Mangement Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 4.28 - This action clarifies and updates the winter harvesting schedule for the High Banks Shellfish Management Area. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.18.1- This action establishes the commercial possession limit for weakfish as June 1 - June 30 and from August 7 - November 8, the commercial possession is unlimited. At all other times the possession limit is 300 pounds. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing]. 7.18.2 - This action establishes the recreational season for weakfish as open January 1 - December 31, annually. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing].

5/27/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action reduces the possession limit of commercial scup to 10,000 lbs. [from 25,000 lbs.] for the floating fish trap fishery effective 5/28/03 at 12:01 AM and until the start of the next sub-period 6/1/03. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/15/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery effective 5/16/03 at 12:01 AM until 8/1/03, the start of the next sub-period. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

5/02/03

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.11.1 - This action implements an exemption program for dealers or individuals that exclusively fish in ASMFC Lobster Management Area 3 to possess lobsters that are shorter than the minimum gauge size specified for Rhode Island. [This regulation becomes effective upon filing].

strong>4/18/03

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.13 - This action increases the escape vent sizes for lobster traps, effective 7/1/03 at 12:01 AM. [This regulation becomes effective twenty days from filing (5/8/03)]. 15.14.1 - This action specifies a time period during which recreational lobster trap tags are valid. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/8/03)]. 15.20.3 - This action adopts the ASMFC Lobster Fishery Management Area management measures [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/8/03)].

4/11/03

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.27 - This action inserts language into the Potowomut Shellfish Management Area regulations that allows for harvesting modification any year when Christmas day falls on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action inserts language allowing modification to the sub-periods for the commercial summer flounder fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]. 7.7.4 - This action decreases the recreational minimum size for summer flounder to 17.5" [from 18"] total length; and increases the recreational summer flounder season. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]. 7.9.2 - This action adjusts the season allocations; and possession limits to 10 fish [from 20 fish], for the commercial tautog fishery. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 4/11/03) 7.11.2 - This action adjusts the scup sub-periods/quota allocations for the floating fish trap fishery.[This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] 7.11.4 - This action increases the recreational scup season and possession limit. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] 7.14.1 - This action adjusts the sub-periods and possession limits for the commercial black sea bass fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] 7.14.2 - This action increases the minimum size to 12" [from 11.5"]; and establishes a season for recreational black sea bass. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] 7.15 - This action establishes a season and possession limit for the commercial spiny dogfish fishery; establishes a prohibition on 'finning'. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] 7.18 - This action establishes a season for the recreational weakfish fishery. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action adjusts the season, quota allocations, and possession limits of the commercial striped bass fishery for gear types other than fish traps. [This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)] 12.5 - This action adjusts the season, quota allocations, and possession limits of the commercial striped bass fishery for the floating fish trap fishery.[This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (5/1/03)]

4/3/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 100 lbs. [from 300 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 4/5/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). 7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession of black sea bass to 100 lbs. [from 500 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 4/5/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

3/28/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 300 lbs. [from 1,500 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 3/30/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). 7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession of black sea bass to 500 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 3/30/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

3/14/03

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.11.1 - This action sets a schedule for increasing the minimum gauge size for the lobster fishery. Effective 3/15/03 the gauge size will be 3-11/32 inches (84.93mm); then effective 7/1/03 the gauge size will increase to 3-3/8 inches (85.72mm). (This regulation becomes effective 3/15/03).

2/14/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action increases the commercial possession of summer flounder to 1,500 lbs. [from 700 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 2/16/03 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). 7.11.2 - This action establishes a weekly trip limit program for the commercial scup fishery. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

strong>01/09/03

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15 - This action closes the commercial fishery for spiny dogfish beginning 12:01 AM on January 10, 2003. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS 10.1 - This action eliminates language that prohibited the use of SCUBA in Charlestown, Green Hill and Quonochaontaug Ponds. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing - 1/29/03). PART XVI - MENHADEN REGULATIONS 16.1; 16.2; 16.4 - This action amends these regulations to reflect the new RI General Law 20-4.1-3 that prohibits the taking of menhaden for reduction (fishmeal) purposes from Rhode Island waters. (This regulation becomes effective twenty days from filing - 1/29/03).

REPEALED regulations entitled "Wet Storage of Molluscan Shellfish" on this date. These regulations are superceded by 19.5 of the RI Marine Fisheries Statutes and Regulations.

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector. View CURRENT Licensing Regulations and Management Plans
Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector.

2002

12/31/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFIS 7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession of black sea bass for the 1/1/03 scheduled opening to 1,000 lbs. [from 7,000 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, effective 1/1/03 at 12:01 AM. This action is taken in compliance with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's Fishery Management Plan(FMP) for black sea bass. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

12/19/02

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4, 4.22.2, 4.24.3, & 4.28 - This action modifies the winter shellfish harvesting schedule now in place for Greenwich Bay, Bissel Cove, Bristol Harbor and High Banks Shellfish Management Areas. The action closes these areas on Wednesday 12/25/02 (Christmas Day) then allows shellfish harvesting on the day immediately following Christmas day. The language allows for this harvesting modification any year when Christmas falls on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

12/11/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.17 - This action prohibits the commercial harvesting, landing, or possession of American shad within Rhode Island waters between January 1 and June 17, 2003. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing). PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.11.1 - This action increases the legal minimum size of lobster to 3 - 5/16" (84.13mm) beginning 1/1/03. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing). A technical revision was made on this date to the new commercial fishing licensing regs entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries" View CURRENT Licensing Regulation and Management Plans

12/03/02

New regulations that restructure the marine fisheries commercial licensing system have been promulgated by DEM. The primary document is entitled "Rules and Regulations Governing the Management of Marine Fisheries". This body of regulations requires the following three companion Management Plans:

(These regulations become effective 20 days from filing) View CURRENT Licensing Regulations and Management Plans PART II - SHELLFISH AND FINFISH HARVESTING LICENSES This action REPEALS Part II of the "RI Marine Fisheries Statutes and Regulations". The new licensing regulation listed above now supercede Part II. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing). PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.10 - This action inserts residual language from Part II of the "RI Marine Fisheries Statutes and Regulations". (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

11/27/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 150 pounds [from 450 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day, beginning 12:01 AM on 11/28/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). 7.11.2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery effective 12:01 AM on 12/2/02. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/03. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

11/22/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery for the remainder of the 10/15/02 - 12/31/02 sub-period, effective 11/23/02 at 12:01 AM. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 4/15/03. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

11/20/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery beginning 12:01 AM on 11/22/2002. The next sub-period is scheduled to begin 1/1/2003. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.19 - This action removes the language that prohibited shellfishing by SCUBA in Charlestown, Green Hill or Quonochontaug Ponds. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing) 4.27 - This action closes shellfishing from a boat until the second Wednesday in December, 2003 in the Potowomut Shellfish Management Area. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing)

10/31/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15 - This action reopens the commercial spiny dogfish fishery for harvest, landing, and possession within the territorial waters of Rhode Island, beginning 12:01 AM on 11/1/2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

10/25/02

PART V - SCALLOPS 5.13 - This action prohibits the dredging of scallops in Point Judith Pond during the 2002 scallop season. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing). 5.14 - The action eliminates the language of this entire section on the prohibition of the use of SCUBA to harvest shellfish in Charlestown, Green Hill, and Quonochontaug Ponds for consistency RI law. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing).

10/23/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit of black sea bass to 100 lbs. [from 750 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM October 24, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

10/18/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 300 lbs. [from 200 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM October 20, 2002. These regulations are for all gear types except floating fish traps. The scup sub-period that begins 11/1/02 is scheduled to open with a commercial possession limit of 2,000 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

10/03/02

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps, effective October 4, 2002 at 12:01 AM. The fish trap fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/03. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

09/27/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 750 lbs. [from 200 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day beginning 12:01 AM October 1, 2002 for a period of four days. On October 5, 2002 at 12:01 AM the possession limit will return to 200 lbs. per vessel, per calendar day. These regulations are for all gear types except floating fish traps (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

09/13/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 200 lbs. [a limit that was scheduled to open 9/16/02 at 100 lbs.]; effective 9/16/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery gear types other than floating fish traps, effective October 1, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

08/09/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit of scup to 200 lbs. [from 100 lbs.] per vessel, per calendar day for all gear types except floating fish traps, effective August 10, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

08/02/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery, effective August 6, 2002 at 12:01 AM. The black sea bass fishery is scheduled to reopen 10/1/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

07/19/02

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps, effective July 22, 2002 at 12:01 AM. The fish trap fishery is scheduled to reopen 9/1/02. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

07/15/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial per vessel/per day possession limit of black sea bass to 100 lbs. [from 500 lbs.], effective July 16, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

06/28/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15 - This action closes the commercial spiny dogfish fishery, effective July 1, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial rod and reel striped bass fishery, effective June 29, 2002 at 12:01 AM. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

06/24/02

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - This action adds new definitions for Part IV and the new Part XIX. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.1.7 - 4.1.10 AND 4.30 - 4.33 -- This action prescribes guidelines for the sale, handling, and tagging of shellfish by commercial harvesters. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing) PART XIX - FISH/SHELLFISH DEALERS REGULATIONS This action establishes regulations that prescribe the conduct, possession, holding, bartering, trading, and sale of shellfish, wild or cultured, for shellfish dealers for the purposes of protecting the public's health, safety, and welfare. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing). The DEM Director filed regulations governing Aquaculture of Marine Species in Rhode Island Waters. The purpose of these regulations are to establish the permitting, licensing, and conditions under which aquaculture shall be conducted in Rhode Island. (These regulations become effective upon filing)

06/21/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action closes the commercial summer flounder fishery, effective June 23, 2002 at 12:01 AM. This fishery will re-open August 1, 2002 with a possession limit of 150 lbs. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing).

06/11/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.4 - This action amends the season and possession limits for the recreational scup fishery. This fishery will open on July 1, 2002 with a possession limit of 8 scup; then on August 24, 2002 the possession limit will increase to 50 scup through 12/31/02. The minimum size remains at 10" TL. (This regulation becomes effective 7/01/02).

06/06/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery, effective June 7, 2002 at 12:01 AM. This fishery will reopen on July 1, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 6/05/02). PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4 - This action opens a portion of the Greenwich Bay Shellfish Management Area to harvesting shellfish by boat from sunrise June 26, 2002 until sunset September 2, 2002. This opening will be subject to water quality status by DEM Office of Water Resources. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 6/06/02)

05/24/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action reduces commercial possession limit of black sea bass to 150 lbs. [from 1,500 lbs.] beginning 12:01 AM on May 28, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 5/24/02).

05/10/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action reduces commercial possession limit of scup to 100 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.] beginning 12:01 AM on May 11, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 5/10/02).

04/26/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit for summer flounder to 100 lbs. [from 1,500 lbs.] beginning 12:01 AM on April 28, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective 04/26/02 upon filing) 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery beginning 12:01 AM on April 28, 2002, until the next sub-period begins on August 1, 2002. (This regulations becomes effective upon filing 4/26/02) 7.14 - This action increases the legal commercial length for possession of black sea bass to 11 inches (11") [from 10"] (This regulations becomes effective upon filing 4/26/02) 7.15 - This action permits the commercial harvest, landing, and possession of spiny dogfish within the territorial Rhode Island waters. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 4/26/02)

04/11/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.4 - This action increases the minimum size for the recreational possession of summer flounder to eighteen inches (18") [from 17.5"]; reduces the possession limit to five (5) summer flounder [from 6 fish]; and establishes the 2002 recreational season at 5/25 - 9/20/2002. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02) 7.11.2 - This action sets the conditions for the commercial harvest of the scup annual quota allocated for the Summer-Fall Period. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02) 7.11.4 - This action establishes the recreational season for scup at 8/1 - 12/31 annually. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02) 7.14.1 - This action sets a schedule for commercially harvesting the annual allocated quota of black sea bass (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02) 7.14.2 - This action increases the minimum size for the recreational possession of black sea bass to eleven and one-half inches (11-1/2") [from 11"]; and increases the season to year around. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02) PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS 10.11.1 - This action changes the minimum mesh requirements for trawl nets used to harvest scup and black sea bass; also the trigger poundage. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02) PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES 11.12.2 - This action changes the escape vent size requirements for traps/pots used to harvest black sea bass. (This regulations becomes effective 5/1/02) PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 This action specifies seasons, quota allocations, and possession limits for the 2002 commercial striped bass fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02) PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.14.1 - This action clarifies language for the lobster trap tag program to achieve intent of ASMFC's Lobster FMP. (This regulation becomes effective 05/1/02)

03/28/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.1 - This action redefines sub-periods, sub-period allocations, and beginning possession limits for the commercial summer flounder fishery. This filing also establishes a procedure by which the over-harvested or under-harvested allocation of a sub-period will be managed. (This regulation becomes effective 04/17/02)

03/06/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-1 - This action decreases commercial possession of scup to 1,000 lbs. [from 10,000 lbs.] . (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 03/07/02)

02/08/02

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action increases commercial possession of summer flounder to 1,500 lbs. [from 700 lbs.] . (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 02/10/02)

Management Plan for the Finfish Fishery Sector;
Management Plan for the Shellfish Fishery Sector; and
Management Plan for the Crustacean Fishery Sector.

2001

12/31/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action reduces the 1/1/02 - 3/31/02 season-opening commercial possession of black sea bass to 7,000 lbs.. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 1/1/02)

12/27/01

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL and PART IV - SHELLFISH This action renews several existing Shellfish Management Areas for a five-year period. (This regulation becomes effective at upon filing 12/27/01)

12/13/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action closes the commercial fishery for summer flounder (fluke). This fishery is scheduled to re-open 1/1/02 with a 700 lbs. possession limit. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 12/15/01)

11/28/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action increases the commercial possession limit per vessel, per calendar day of summer flounder (fluke) to 1,000 pounds [from 350 lbs.]. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM on 11/29/01)

11/21/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-1 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/02. (This regulation becomes effective 11/23/01) 7.15 - This action closes the commercial spiny dogfish fishery until further notice (This regulation becomes effective 11/23/01)

11/15/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery for the remainder of the 10/15 - 12/31 sub-period. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 4/15/02. (This regulation becomes effective 11/16/01)

11/07/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery. This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/02 with a possession limit of 9,000 lbs. per vessel per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 11/10/01)

10/26/01

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.28 - This action changes the boat harvest schedule for the High Banks Shellfish Management Area. That schedule will resume on the second Wednesday in December 2002. (This regulation becomes effective 11/15/01) PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15 - This action allows possession of spiny dogfish in the territorial waters of Rhode Island. Action taken to compliment the Federal opening on 11/1/01. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing (10/26/01)

10/10/01

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action opens the commercial striped bass fisheryfor gear types other than floating fish traps for a two-day bonus period from 10/13/01 through 10/14/01. This bonus period is established to utilize the small unharvested quota remaining from the annual allocated quota. (This regulation becomes effective 10/13/01 at 12:01 AM)

9/26/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 9/28/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.2-1 - This action increases the commercial scup possession limit for the Winter Period II (November - December). The scup possession limit on 11/1/01 will be 2000 lbs. [up from 500 lbs.]; once 70% of the period quota is harvested the possession limit will decrease to 500 lbs. (This regulation becomes effective 9/27/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.14.1 - This action decreases the commercial black sea bass possession limit for the October - December period. The possession limit on 10/1/01 will be 300 lbs. [down from 2,000 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 9/27/01 at 12:01 AM) PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for gear types other than floating fish traps (This regulation becomes effective 9/27/01 at 12:01 AM)

9/18/01

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps -- 100% of the 2001 annual quota for floating traps has been harvested. [This fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/02] (This regulation becomes effective 9/19/01 at 12:01 AM)

8/9/01

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps. [This fishery is scheduled to reopen 9/1/01 with an unlimited possession limit until 100% of the trap net quota is harvested.] (This regulation becomes effective 8/10/01 at 12:01 AM)

7/25/01

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action opens the commercial striped bass fishery for gear types other than floating fish traps from 8/1/01 through 8/4/01 with a possession limit of three (3) fish per calendar day. This bonus season is established to utilize the small unharvested quota from the previous sub-period. (This regulation becomes effective 8/1/01 at 12:01 AM) 12.5 - This action opens the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps beginning 7/27/01 at 12:01 AM with a possession limit of 100 pounds per calendar day until 80% of the trap net quota is harvested. Further, the fishery will reopen 9/1/01 with an unlimited possession limit until 100% of the trap net quota is harvested. (This regulation becomes effective 7/27/01 at 12:01 AM)

7/23/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - The action closes the commercial summer flounder (fluke) fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 7/25/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.2-2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery. (This regulations becomes effective 7/25/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery until October 1, 2001 for gear types other than floating fish traps. The fishery is scheduled to re-open with a possession limit of 2,000 pounds per vessel per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 7/24/01 at 12:01 AM)

7/10/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action reduces the legal maximum commercial possession of black sea bass to 150 pounds per calendar day [from 1000 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 7/12/01 at 12:01 AM) 12.5 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery for floating fish traps. (This regulation becomes effective 7/12/01)

6/28/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15 - This action closes the commercial spiny dogfish fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 6/29/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.7.1 - This action clarifies language within this section regarding adjustments to sub-period allocations for summer flounder. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing) 7.11.5-1 - This action implements regulations to govern the shipping, transfer, and reporting of scup (This regulation becomes effective upon filing)

6/22/01

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action closes the commercial striped bass fishery. [The fishery is scheduled to re-open September 15, 2001.] (This regulation becomes effective 6/25/01 at 12:01 PM)

6/12/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery for floating fish traps (This regulation becomes effective 6/13/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery for the remainder of the current period. [The fishery is scheduled to reopen 7/1/01 with a possession limit of 1,000 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 6/14/01 at 12:01 AM)

6/08/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the legal maximum commercial possession limit of summer flounder to 50 lbs. per calendar day [from the June 1 sub-period opener of 100 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 6/11/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/25/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action closes the scup fishery to commercial methods of harvest other than floating fish traps. (This regulation becomes effective 5/26/001 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.2-2 - This action reduces the commercial floating fish trap possession limit of scup to 500 lbs. per calendar day [from 1,000 lbs.] until the fishery closes on 5/29/01 at 12:01AM. Further, on June 1, 2001 the possession limit for the trap fishery will be 1,000 lbs. per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 5/26/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/22/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action opens the commercial scup fishery for floating fish traps with a possession limit of 1,000 lbs. per calendar day. (This regulation becomes effective 5/23/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/16/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 50 lbs. [from 100 lbs.] per calendar day for commercial license holders with or without a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. (This regulation becomes effective 5/17/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.9.2 - This action closes the commercial tautog fishery for the remainder of the 4/15 - 5/31 sub-period. The fishery is scheduled to re-open when the next sub-period begins on August 1, 2001. (This regulation becomes effective 5/18/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/11/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7 - This action establishes the distribution among the sub-periods of the annual allocated quota of summer flounder and allows for the adjustment of that distribution in the event of an estimated over-harvest. (This regulation becomes effective 5/31/01) 7.14.1 - This action reduces the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 150 lbs. per calendar day [from 1500 lbs.] as required by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). (This regulation becomes effective 5/14/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/8/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the commercial possession of summer flounder to 100 lbs. [from 750 lbs.] per calendar day for commercial license holders with or without a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. (This regulation becomes effective 5/10/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.2 - This action closes the scup fishery to commercial floating fish traps until further notice. (This regulation becomes effective 5/10/01 at 12:01 AM)

5/3/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action implements the 60% harvest trigger which will limit the possession of scup to 10,000 pounds per calendar day for commercial floating fish traps. (This regulation becomes effective 5/5/01 at 12:01 AM) 7.15 - This action opens Rhode Island waters to the possession of Spiny dogfish.(This regulation becomes effective 5/4/01 at 12:01 AM) The commercial possession limit for spiny dogfish for vessels issued a Federal Commercial Spiny Dogfish Permit is 600 pounds per calendar day.

4/30/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2 - This action establishes a commercial quota for Scup for 2001; sets guidelines for the transfer of quota allocations between floating trap and non-trap sectors of the industry, and establishes other measures that will facilitate management of the scup fishery. [The May 1 sub-period will open with a 1,000 lbs. possession limit; that possession limit will be reduced to 100 lbs. on May 15th.] (This regulation becomes effective upon filing) PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.24 - This action establishes commercial quotas, permit requirements, reporting requirements, and harvest restrictions for Horseshoe Crabs (This regulation becomes effective upon filing)

4/25/01

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.12.4 (new section) - This action establishes a portion of Ninigret Pond as a spawner sanctuary, and closes this area to the harvest of shellfish until May 17, 2002. (This regulation becomes effective 5/15/01)

4/20/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.4-1 - This action increases the recreational minimum legal size of fluke to 17½ inches [from the 15 ½ inches], and decreases the recreational maximum legal possession of fluke to six (6) fish per day per person [from 8 fish]. (This regulation becomes effective 5/10/01) 7.7.4-2 - This action sets the recreational season for fluke from May 26 through September 3 (This regulations becomes effective 5/10/01)

4/17/01

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action decreases the minimum legal size for the possession of Striped bass to 34 inches [from 36 inches]; increases maximum legal possession limit to 4 fish [from 3 fish] per license holder during open season; and sets the harvest schedule for the 2001 annual quota by the commercial handline fishery. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 4/17/01) 12.5 - This action changes the minimum legal size for the possession of Striped bass to 28 inches [from 'between 24 and 40 inches']; and SETS the harvest schedule for 2001 annual quota by the commercial floating fish trap fishery. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 4/17/01)

3/28/01

PART III - MARINE FISHERIES COUNCIL 3.6.23 - This action establishes Jenny's Creek as a Shellfish Management Area and DESCRIBES the area. (This regulation becomes effective 4/17/01) PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.29 - This action closes Jenny's Creek Shellfish Management Area to shellfishing, in it's entirety until further notice. (This regulation becomes effective 4/17/01) PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.5 - This action reduces the legal minimum recreational possession size for Striped bass to 28" [from 29"] (This regulation becomes effective 4/17/01) 7.11.4 - This action increases the legal minimum recreational possession size for Scup to 10" [from 9"] (This regulation becomes effective 4/17/01) 7.14.2 - This action increases the legal minimum recreational possession size for Black sea bass to 11" [from 10"]; establishes a bag limit of 25 fish per day; and a closed season from March 1 through May 9 annually. (This regulation becomes effective 4/17/01) PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.1 - This action establishes a no-closed recreational season status for Striped bass. The action further makes consistent the 28" legal minimum size established in section 7.5 above. (This regulation becomes effective 4/17/01) PART XV - LOBSTER, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, and HORSESHOE CRABS 15.18 - This action refiles the non-trap lobster possession limit regulations, removing them from temporary status. (This regulation becomes effective immediately upon filing)

3/14/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action increases the maximum commercial possession limit of fluke to 750 lbs. [from the 500 lbs.] for those commercial license holders who possess a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. The possession limit will remain at 200 pounds for all other commercial license holders. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM 3/15/01)

3/06/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-1 - This action closes the commercial scup fishery for the remainder of the Jan - April sub-period. The scup fishery is scheduled to reopen May 1, 2001. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 3/7/01) 7.14.1 - This action closes the commercial black sea bass fishery for the remainder of the Jan - March sub-period. The black sea bass fishery is scheduled to reopen April 1, 2001 with a possession limit of 1,500 lbs. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM (3/7/01).

2/06/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the maximum commercial possession limit of fluke to 500 lbs. [from the 1000 lbs.] for those commercial license holders who possess a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. The possession limit will remain at 200 pounds for all other commercial license holders. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 2/7/01) 7.14.1 - This action reduces the maximum commercial possession limit of black sea bass to 4,500 lbs. [from 9,000 lbs.]. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM (2/7/01).

1/29/01

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-1 - This action REDUCES the maximum commercial possession limit of scup to 1000 lbs. [from 10,000 lbs.] as of 12:01 AM 1/30/01. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 1/30/01) PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.8.1 - This action CLARIFIES the intention of the Rhode Island Marine Fisheries Council that the tagging and labeling requirements for Shellfish Management Areas be consistent. (This regulation becomes effective 20 days from filing (2/18/01).

2000

12/18/00

SHELLFISH MANAGEMENT AREAS - holiday harvesting This action MAKES A HOLIDAY ADJUSTMENT to the scheduled Monday, Wednesday, Friday shellfishing schedule set in certain shellfish management areas. Because a state holiday falls on Monday 12/25, and Monday 1/1/01, the alternate open day will be December 19th and December 26 respectively. Harvesting will be permitted between the usual hours of 8:00AM and 12:00 noon during these alternate days. (This regulation becomes effective 12/18/00)

12/15/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.15 - This action PROHIBITS the commercial harvest/possession of spiny dogfish and parts thereof within the territorial waters of the State of Rhode Island. (This regulation becomes effective 1/4/01) 7.16 - This action ESTABLISHES a recreational possession limit of fifty (50) American eel per day within the territorial waters of the State of Rhode Island. (This regulation becomes effective 1/4/01) PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.21 - This action ESTABLISHES a possession limit of twenty-five (25) blue crabs when taken by methods other than scoop, crab net, trot or hand line. (This regulation becomes effective 1/4/01) 15.22 - This action INCREASES the legal minimum size for possession of blue crabs to five inches (5") [from 4-1/8"] (This regulation becomes effective 1/4/01)

12/8/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action REDUCES the maximum commercial possession limit of fluke as of 12:01 AM 12/10/00. The possession limit will be 200 pounds for those fisherman who possess a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. The possession limit will remain at 200 pounds for other commercial license holders. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 12/10/00)

11/29/00

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 12.18 - This action ESTABLISHES a commercial possession limit on lobsters taken by methods other than traps. (This regulation becomes effective upon filing 11/29/00)

11/21/00

PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action RE-OPENS the commercial striped bass fishery for a five-day period. The fishery will open 12:01 AM 11/22/00 and close 12:01 AM 11/27/00. The possession limit remains at three (3) fish per license holder. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 11/22/00)

11/17/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action INCREASES the maximum commercial possession limit of fluke as of 12:01 AM 11/18/00. The possession limit will be 600 pounds for those fisherman who possess a Rhode Island Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. The possession limit will remain at 200 pounds for other commercial license holders. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 11/18/00)

11/6/00

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.24.2 - This action OPENS shore digging within the Bissel Cove Shellfish Management Area. Shore digging will follow the Monday, Wednesday, Friday -- 8:00AM until noon schedule. This schedule begins the second Wednesday of December through April annually. [This regulation becomes effective 20 day from filing (11/26/00)] 4.25 - This action OPENS boat harvesting within the Upper Sakonnet Shellfish Management Area. Boat harvesting will follow the Monday, Wednesday, Friday -- 8:00AM until noon schedule. This schedule begins the second Wednesday of December through April annually. [This regulation becomes effective 20 day from filing (11/26/00)] 4.27 - This action CLOSES boat harvesting within the Potowomut Shellfish Management Area until the second Wednesday in December, 2001. [This regulation becomes effective 20 day from filing (11/26/00)] 4.28 - This action OPENS boat harvesting within the High Banks Shellfish Management Area. Boat harvesting will follow the Monday, Wednesday, Friday -- 8:00AM until noon schedule. This schedule begins the second Wednesday of December through April annually. [This regulation becomes effective 20 day from filing (11/26/00)] PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for black sea bass as of 12:01 AM on 11/7/00. The fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/2001. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 11/7/00)

11/1/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for scup as of 12:01 AM on 11/3/00. The fishery is scheduled to reopen 1/1/2001. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 11/3/00) PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.3 - This action CLOSES the commercial fishery for striped bass as of 12:01 AM on 11/3/00. The fishery is scheduled to reopen 6/1/2001. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 11/3/00)

10/25/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.14.1 - This action REDUCES the commercial possession limit for black sea bass to 1,000 pounds [from 2,000 pounds] until the remainder of the fourth quarter quota has been landed. This measure is taken in compliance with the Emergency Rule for the black sea bass fishery adopted by the ASMFC and the MAFMC. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 10/26/00)

10/20/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action REOPENS the commercial summer flounder fishery at 12:01 AM on October 23, 2000 with a fifty (50) pound possession limit. The summer flounder fishery is scheduled to open the next sub-period 11/1/00 with a 300 pound possession limit. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 10/23/00)

10/6/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action REOPENS the commercial summer flounder fishery from 12:01 AM on October 8, 2000 until 12:01 AM October 15, 2000. The possession limit during this one-week (7-day) period is fifty (50) pounds. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 10/8/00)

9/29/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES OF FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-1 - This action REDUCES the percentage of the scup quota that is required to trigger a decrease in possession limit for the Winter Period I. FURTHER, this action REDUCES the maximum legal possession limit for SCUP during the Winter Period II to 500 lbs. [from 4,000] (This regulation become effective 10/19/00) 7.11.2-2 - This action CLOSES the commercial scup fishery for all gear types for the remainder of the Summer-Fall Sub Period. (This regulations becomes effective 10/1/00 at 12:01 AM) NOTE: This fishery is scheduled to re-open 11/1/00 with a 500 lbs. possession limit. 7.14.1 - This action REDUCES the maximum legal possession limits on the annual schedule that regulates the black sea bass quota. (This regulation becomes effective 10/1/00) NOTE: Beginning 10/1/00 the maximum possession limit for black sea bass is 2,000 lbs. PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS 10.11 - This action INCREASES the limit [to 500 lbs.] the trigger that requires the use of a minimum mesh size of 4.5" while commercially fishing for scup from November 1 through April 30 annually. (This regulation become effective 10/19/00)

9/15/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action REDUCES the legal possession limit of summer flounder to 50 lbs. [from 300 lbs.] until 12:01 AM 9/24/00 when the summer flounder fishery will CLOSE for the remainder of the Summer II Sub-Period (through 10/31/00). (These regulations become effective at 12:01 AM 9/17/00)

9/8/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action REDUCES the legal possession limit of scup to 100 lbs. [from 300 lbs.] for all commercial gear types through September 15, 2000. This action further reduces the opening possession limit for the September 16 - October 31 sub-period to 100 lbs. [from 1,000 lbs.]. (This regulation becomes effective 9/10/00 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.5 - This action establishes regulations for the landing, shipping, reporting, and transferring of scup. Further this action clarifies the definition of "Port". (These regulations become effective at 12:01 AM on September 12, 2000)

8/25/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action INCREASES the legal possession limit of scup to 300 lbs. for all commercial gear types through September 15, 2000. This action further assigns a 300-pound per vessel bycatch to the floating trap fishery from September 1 through September 15, 2000. (This regulation becomes effective 8/28/00 at 12:01 AM)

8/15/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action RE-OPENS the scup fishery with a legal possession limit of 100 lbs. (This regulation becomes effective 8/16/00 at 12:01 AM)

8/8/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action CLOSES the scup fishery until September 1. The quota for the July 1-Sept 15 sub-period has been harvested. However, the scup fishery will re-open September 1 through September 15 with a possession limit of 300 lbs. in order to harvest the portion of the quota that was not harvested by the floating fish trap fishery and re-allocated to the "other gear types". The scup fishery will re-open September 16 with a 1,000-pound possession limit, as scheduled. (This regulation becomes effective 8/9/00 at 12:01 AM) 7.14.1 - This action CLOSES the black sea bass fishery for the remainder of the July ? Sept period. The black sea bass fishery is scheduled to re-open October 1, 2000 with a 4,000-pound possession limit. (This regulation becomes effective 8/9/00 at 12:01 AM)

8/3/00

The DEM Director filed regulations governing the Wet Storage of Shellfish. The purpose of these regulations is to establish wet storage of shellfish standards intended to protect public health, and to restore and enhance the states shellfish resources. The full text of the regulations are posted here in Adobe Acrobat format.

7/25/00

PART XII - STRIPED BASS trap industry 12.5 - This action CLOSES the striped bass fishery for the floating fish trap industry. The fishery is scheduled to reopen January 1, 2001. (This regulation becomes effective 7/26/00 at 12:01 PM)

6/30/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action CLOSES the summer flounder (fluke) fishery for the remainder of the Summer I Sub-Period (6/1 - 8/31). (This regulation becomes effective 7/1/00 at 12:01 AM) [On September 1, 2000 the summer flounder fishery is scheduled to open the Summer II Sub-Period with a possession limit of 300 lbs. for commercial license holders with a R.I. Summer Flounder Certificate, and 200 lbs. for those license holders without the Certificate.]

6/22/00

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - Defines various terms relating to the lobster trap tag program (see below). (This regulation becomes effective 7/12/00) PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action REDUCES the legal maximum possession limit of summer flounder (fluke) to 50 lbs. [from 100 lbs.] (This regulation becomes effective 6/23/00 at 12:01 AM) PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.14.1 through 15.14.1-13 - (new) These regulations establish the Rhode Island lobster trap tag program. (These regulations become effective 7/12/00)

6/13/00

PART XV - LOBSTERS, OTHER CRUSTACEANS, AND HORSESHOE CRABS 15.24 - (new section) These EMERGENCY regulations filed by the DIRECTOR establish regulations for horseshoe crabs Limulus polyphemus. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 6/14/00)

6/9/00

PART XV - LOBSTERS AND CRUSTACEANS 15.18 - This action repeals this section that limited the possession of lobsters taken by gear or methods other than traps. (This regulation becomes effective 6/29/00)

5/26/00

PART I - LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 1.3 - Further defines Trip Limit (Possession Limit) (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00) PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.5 - Updates this section to reflect the 4.14.00 filing that increased the recreational possession size for striped bass to 29". (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00) 7.9.2 - Adds language to make the intent more specific regarding the commercial possession of tautog. (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00) PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS 10.3.1 - Clarifies the intent of this regulation by removing superfluous language. (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00) 10.11.1 - For otter trawlers harvesting scup, this action reduces the pounds-in-possession amount that triggers the use of 4.5" minimum mesh size. (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00) PART XI - COMMERCIAL FISHERIES 11.19 - This action moves south the northernmost line of the Coastal Marine Life Management Area (CMLMA), thus reducing the area south of this line where it is legal to possess winter flounder (with a permit). (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00) 11.19.4 - Updates language and references to the new above-mentioned lines of the CMLMA. (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00) 11.19.5 - This action makes it a condition of the CMLMA Winter Flounder Permit that, upon the request of the Division of Fish and Wildlife, the permitted vessel is required to take a sea sampler onboard. (This regulation becomes effective 6/16/00)

5/17/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action CLOSES the summer flounder (fluke) fishery. (This regulation becomes effective 5/18/00 at 12:01 AM) [This commercial fishery is scheduled to re-open June 1 at 100 lbs. possession limit. Additionally, this fishery is scheduled to begin a new sub-period September 1, 2000 when the possession limit will begin at 300 lbs. for commercial license-holders with a R.I. Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate, and at 200 lbs. for those commercial license-holders without the Certificate.]

5/15/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action reduces the maximum legal possession limit for summer flounder (fluke) to 100 pounds [from 300]. This possession limit applies to all commercial licensees whether or not they hold a R.I. Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. (This regulation becomes effective 5/16/00 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.2-2 - According to current harvest report, the DFW is following the pre-determined reduction schedule for scup quota (for gear types other than floating fish traps) as follows: On 5/16/00 at 12:01 AM the scup quota will be reduced to 100 lbs. per vessel; then on 5/17/00 at 12:01 AM the fishery will close for the remainder of the May-June sub-period. (This regulation becomes effective 5/16/00 at 12:01 AM)

5/9/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.9; 7.9.1; 7.9.2 - This action opens the 2000 commercial TAUTOG fishery and establishes the schedule by which the annual allocation will be harvested. (These regulations become effective ON FILING[5/9/00])

4/28/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.11.2-2 - This action reduces the possession limit for the scheduled May 1 summer-fall opener for SCUP to 1,000 lbs. per vessel [from the previously determined 2,500 lbs. per vessel]; additionally, the action establishes the total allocation of SCUP quota for the 2000 summer-fall sub-period; the trip limit per vessel for floating traps; and the trip limit per vessel for gear types other than floating fish traps with the schedule by which the Division will reduce the legal maximum possession limits. (These regulations become effective 5/1/00 at 12:01 AM)

4/14/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action decreases the maximum legal possession limit for summer flounder (fluke) to 300 pounds [from 500] for commercial licensees who hold a R.I. Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. (This regulation becomes effective 5/1/00 at 12:01 AM) 7.7.4 - This action increased the recreational legal minimum possession size for summer flounder to 15-1/2" [from 15"]; and sets the open recreational season at May 10 through October 2, annually; and sets the closed recreational season at October 3 through May 9, annually. (Effective 5/4/2000) 7.9 - Sets May 1 as the first day of the year for legal possession of tautog. (Effective 5/4/2000) 7.9.1 - Changes the legal possession limit and sets a season for tautog as follows: May 1 through October 14 - 3 fish per day; then October 15 through December 31 - 10 fish per day. (Effective 5/4/2000) 7.9.3 - Eliminates verbiage so that Charter and Party boats possession limits for tautog are the same as the standard recreational limits. (Effective 5/4/2000) 7.11.2-1 - Removes language that closed the Summer-Fall sub-period for scup; and it removes language that allowed floating fish trap fishery to resume a scup bycatch possession of 100 lbs. (Effective 5/4/2000) 7.14.1 - Updates the commercial annual possession limit schedule for black sea bass. (Effective 5/4/2000) 7.14.2 - Removes the 20-fish recreational possession limit for black sea bass. (Effective 5/4/2000) PART XII - STRIPED BASS 12.1 - Increases the recreational minimum legal possession size of striped bass to 29" [from 28"]; additionally, this action sets an open season of April 23 through November 30, annually; and a closed recreational striped bass season from December 1 through April 22, annually. (Effective 5/4/2000) 12.3 - This action adjusts the commercial striped bass possession schedule by increasing the September possession limit to three (3) fish [from 2]. (Effective 5/4/2000) 12.5 - Sets a range for legal possession size for striped bass in the floating fish trap net fishery. That range is: a minimum total length of 24 inches to a maximum total length of 40 inches. This action also removes verbiage that closed the 1999 trap net fishery. (Effective 5/4/2000)

3/30/00

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action decreases the maximum legal possession limit for summer flounder (fluke) to 500 pounds [from 1,000] for commercial licensees who hold a R.I. Summer Flounder Exemption Certificate. (This regulation becomes effective 3/31/00 at 12:01 AM) PART X - EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS 10.3.1 - New section establishing regulations for power hauling shellfish apparatus. (This regulation becomes effective 4/19/00).

2/16/00

COMMERCIAL SCUP FISHERY CLOSED for remainder of Winter sub-period. Current regulations require that this fishery close once the period allocation has been landed. According to the National Marine Fisheries Service the entire quota will be landed on or about 2/17/00; therefore the fishery will close at 12:01 AM 2/17/2000. The new sub-period begins 5/1/2000. (This regulation becomes effective February 17, 2000 at 12:01 AM.)

2/7/00

COMMERCIAL SCUP POSSESSION LIMIT REDUCED TO 1,000 POUNDS The National Marine Fisheries Service, according to the Fishery Management Plan, has determined that 85% of the 1,082,000 lbs January-through-April quota will be landed by 2/5/2000. Therefore, the legal commercial possession limit for SCUP is reduced to 1,000 pounds. (This regulation becomes effective February 8, 2000 at 12:01 AM)

1999

12/28/99

PART IV - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 - This action increases the maximum legal possession limit for summer flounder (fluke) to 1,000 pounds until further notice. (This regulation becomes effective 12/29/99 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.1-1 - The Winter Sub Period for SCUP will open at 10,000 pounds. (This regulation becomes effective 1/1/2000 at 12:01 AM)

12/17/99

COMMERCIAL BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY CLOSED through end of year The commercial BLACK SEA BASS fishery is closed in order to comply with the federal closure. The closure is in effect through the remainder of the fourth period (12/31/99). In accordance with 3.2.1-1 of the Rhode Island Marine Fisheries Regulations, a notice terminating this fishery has been provided to the local press, and a notice of the closure has been submitted to the Secretary of State. (This notice is effective on 12/20/99) The first period of the pre-determined schedule for 2000 begins 1/1/2000 and running through 3/31/2000, at that time the maximum legal possession for black sea bass will be 11,000 lbs.

12/10/99

PART VII - MINIMUM SIZES FISH/SHELLFISH 7.7.2-2 ? This action increases the maximum legal possession limit for summer flounder (fluke) to 400 lbs. (from 300). The maximum legal possession limit will be 1,000 on 1/1/2000 when the Winter Sub-Period begins. (This regulation becomes effective 12/11/99 at 12:01 AM)

11/16/99

PART IV - SHELLFISH 4.10.4-1; 4.22.2-1; 4.24.3-1; and 4.27 -- this action allows designated shellfish management areas to now be open during legal state holidays if the holiday falls on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday of the previously determined winter schedule.(This regulation becomes effective 12/6/99) 4.10.4-3; 4.22.2-3; 4.24.3-3; 4.27 -- this action regulates shellfishers to cull, bag, and tag prior to: leaving the approved harvest area; removing the product from the boat; or offering the product for sale.(This regulation becomes effective 12/6/99) 4.12.1 and 4.26.2 -- updated language (These regulations become effective 12/6/99)

10/5/99

COMMERCIAL STRIPED BASS FISHERY CLOSED The commercial STRIPED BASS quota has been met, and in accordance with Rhode Island Marine regulation 12. 3, a notice terminating this fishery has been provided to the local press, and a notice of the closure has been submitted to the Secretary of State. (This notice is effective on 10/5/99)

9/29/99

PART VII 7.7.2-2 - the commercial possession of SUMMER FLOUNDER [FLUKE] is PROHIBITED for the remainder of the Summer II Sub-Period [through 10/31/99]. The 11/1/99 opening of the Winter Sub-Period is scheduled to begin with a maximum legal possession limit of 300 pounds. (This regulation becomes effective 9/30/99 at 12:01 AM)

9/13/99

PART VII 7.7.2-2 - this action reduces the maximum legal commercial possession of SUMMER FLOUNDER [FLUKE] to 100 pounds [from 300] until further notice. (This regulation becomes effective 9/16/99 at 12:01 AM) 7.11.2-1 - this action reduces the maximum legal commercial possession of SCUP to 4,000 lbs. [from 8,000] when the Winter Period II opens on 11/1/99. (This regulation becomes effective 9/16/99 at 12:01 AM)

9/9/99

PART VII 7.11.2-2 - this action closes the commercial fishery for SCUP for the remainder of the Summer-Fall Sub-Period. The fishery will re-open for the Winter Sub-Period II on 11/1/99. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 9/10/99) [NOTE: floating fish trap companies are on a separate quota and are not affected by this closure]

8/31/99

PART XV 15.11 - this action delays the scheduled 9/1/99 increase in the legal minimum size for lobsters until 6/1/2000. On 6/1/2000 the legal minimum gauge size will increase from 3-1/4" to 3-9/32". This action further delays the previously scheduled 6/1/2000 - 3-15/16" increase until further notice. (This regulation becomes effective immediately upon filing)

8/23/99

PART VII 7.11.2-2 - this action allows overages in fish trap scup quota to be made available for all gear types (This regulation becomes effective 9/12/99) PART XVI Sections 16.1-1 - 16.5 - this action changes the menhaden season for purse seiners; it closes certain areas to ALL purse seiners; closes certain areas on Sundays and Holidays (This regulation becomes effective 9/12/99)

8/4/99

PART VII Section 7.7.2-2 - reduces the maximum legal possession of summer flounder (fluke) to 0 pounds/NO POSSESSION [from 50 lbs.] (Effective 8/5/99 12:01 AM) NOTE: the possession of 300 pounds beginning 9/1/99 still stands at this time PART XI Section 11.19 and 11.19.3 - 7 - this action REVERSES the filing of 7/15/99 that reduced the area within the Coastal Marine Life Management Area (CMLMA) where winter flounder fishing is permitted. (Effective upon filing) PART XII Section 12.5 - The fish trap fishery, having exceeded the quota for striped bass, is closed to harvesting striped bass until 1/1/2000. [formerly scheduled to open 9/1/99 for remainder of quota). (Effective 20 days from filing)

7/21/99

PART XII Section 12.5 - The striped bass quota allocated to floating fish trap fishery has been harvested for this period. This action closes the fish trap fishery for striped bass. The fishery re-opens 9/1/99. (Effective immediately upon filing. PART XV Section 15.11 - In compliance with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (ASMFC)lobster management plan, this action establishes a schedule for increases in the legal minimum possession size for lobsters. 9/1/99 - increase to 3 9/32" ; 6/1/2000 - increase to 3 15/16". (Effective 20 days from filing, 8/10/99.)

6/15/99

PART VII Section 7.7.2-2 - reduces the maximum legal possession of summer flounder (fluke) to 50 pounds [from 100], and provides for the opening of the previously established Fall Sub Period with a maximum legal possession of 300 pounds on 9/1/99. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM 7/16/99.) Section 7.11.2-2 - based on remaining fish trap quota, this action reopens the scup fishery to floating fish traps with a possession limit of 100 pounds until further notice. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM 7/16/99.) PART XI Section 11.19 - this action reduces the area where winter flounder fishing is permitted within the Coastal Marine Life Management Area (CMLMA) (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM 8/4/99.) Section 11.19.3, .4, .5, .6, & .7 - this action closes the upper portion of the CMLMA in Narragansett Bay to fishing for winter flounder. The portion of the CMLMA that remains open to winter flounder fishing is still subject to the 300-pound possession limit (100 lbs. in the ponds), seasons, and the reporting requirement. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM 8/4/99.) PART XII Section 12.3 - strikes the words 'rod and reel' so that fishing by rod and reel is not the only fishing method affected by the possession limits established in this section. (This regulation becomes effective at 12:01 AM 8/4/99.)

6/9/99

PART VII Section 7.9.2 - having met the 1999 annual quota, this action closes the commercial tautog fishery until further notice. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 6/11/99.)

5/25/99

PART VII Section 7.7.2-2 - reduces the legal maximum commercial possession of fluke to no possession, [from 300 lbs.]. (The 6/1/99 possession of 100 lbs. still holds) (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/26/99.) Section 7.11.2-2 - closes the scup fishery to floating fish traps until the year 2000. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/28/99.)

5/12/99

PART VII Section 7.7.2-2 - reduces the legal maximum commercial possession of fluke to 300 lb. Additionally, on June 1, 1999 the possession limit will be further reduced to 100 lb. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/13/99.) Section 7.11.2-2 - a 60% projected harvest of the seasonal quota has triggered the predetermined reduction in the possession limit for scup for those harvesting with floating fish traps to 10,000 lb.

5/7/99

PART X Section 10.5 - increases the escape vent size for lobster traps by 1/16 of an inch. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 6/1/99.) PART XV Section 15.13 - increases the escape vent size for lobster traps by 1/16 of an inch. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 6/1/99.)

4/30/99

PART VII Section 7.11.2-2 - reduces the legal maximum commercial possession of scup to 2500 lb. [from 5000 lb.] Additionally, in the description of the distribution of quota for scup, poundage was changed to percentages. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/1/99.) Section 7.11.2-3 - the varying range in pounds of possession of scup is now 0 - 10,000 lb. [from 200 - 10,000 lbs]. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/1/99.) Section 7.14.1 - the existing possession distribution for black sea bass was renewed for 1999. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/20/99.)

4/23/99

PART IV Section 4.25 - closes boat harvesting; permits shoredigging sunrise-sunset daily. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/13/99.) PART VII Section 7.7-1 - Summer flounder Sub-periods - data changes and quota distribution. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/13/99.) Section 7.7.4 - Summer flounder Recreational Regulations - set annual season [May 29 - September 11]. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/13/99.) Section 7.9 - Tautog - set annual commercial season [May 15 - quota]. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/13/99.) Section 7.9.2 - set commercial tautog quota. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/13/99.) PART XII Section 12.3 - Striped Bass Size/Possession Limits in the Commercial Striped Bass Fisheries - insert the words rod and reel into last sentence. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 5/13/99.)

3/25/99

PART VII Section 7.7.2-2 - reduces the legal maximum commercial possession of fluke to 400 lb. [from 1000 lb.] (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 3/26/99. Last off-load 8 PM 3/25/99)

2/22/99

PART III Section 3.6.21 - better defines the lines of the Potowomut Management Area. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 3/14/99.) PART IV Section 4.8 - adds the Potowomut Management Area to that section. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 3/14/99.)

1998

12/28/98

PART VII Section 7.7.2 - the trip limit for summer flounder will be 1000 lb. (This regulation becomes effective 12:01 AM 1/1/99.)