New Gulf fishing rules take effect this Sunday

The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council has issued a reminder to anglers that new rules affecting fishing for Gulf reef fish in federal waters take effect Sunday, June 1.

The new rules require anglers to use steel circle hooks when fishing with natural baits for Gulf reef fish. Reef fish species include all snappers, groupers, sea bass, amberjack, triggerfish, hogfish, red porgy and tilefish. Dehooking and venting tools are also required.

Circle hooks are more likely to hook a fish in the jaw or mouth, enabling safe release.

Dehooking devices must be blunt with rounded edges and size-appropriate for hooks used on reef fish.

Reef fish that come from depths of 50 feet or more expand their swim bladder as they approach the surface. Venting tools must be used to expel the gasses, allowing the fish to return to the bottom. Puncturing or pushing back the swim bladder is unacceptable, as it may kill the fish.

For more information and instructions on how to properly vent a fish, call the Gulf council at (888) 833-1844 or visit www. gulfcouncil.org. and click on education and outreach.