TPWD Proposes Snapper, Ling, Shark Changes

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department officials are considering changes to some saltwater regulations.

You can make your comments here.

The following are the official proposals.

Shortfin Mako Shark – In response to federal actions, the proposed amendment would match federal regulations prohibiting retention of shortfin mako sharks. Effective July 5, 2022, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) enacted a final rule prohibiting the landing or retention of shortfin mako sharks in any U.S. Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS) fishery until further notice. Coastal Fisheries Division proposes to add shortfin mako to the list of prohibited shark species for both the recreational and commercial fishing proclamations

Direct Enhancement of Snapper Conservation and the Economy through Novel Devices Act of 2020 (DESCEND Act) in state waters – These changes would mirror the DESCEND Act requirements, which apply to Gulf of Mexico federal waters, in state waters, but require anglers to use the devices when a fish exhibits signs of barotrauma. The DESCEND Act applies to commercial vessels, charter vessels and headboats, and private recreational vessels fishing for reef fish such as red snapper. The Act requires fishermen to have a venting tool or descending device rigged and ready to use when fishing for reef fish. This proposal would require anglers to utilize a venting tool or descending device in state waters when fish exhibit signs of barotrauma. Signs of barotrauma include distended abdomen, bulging eyes, a stomach protruding from the mouth, and bubbling under the scales. This change will ease enforcement through consistency with federal regulations and reduce discard mortality of reef fish in state waters.

Cobia – The proposed changes would match federal regulations of a one fish per person, per day bag limit and a vessel limit of two fish per trip, not to exceed the per person bag limit, for the recreational and commercial fisheries. This change is proposed to address declining stocks of cobia in the Gulf of Mexico and to facilitate ease of enforcement with federal regulations.