In response to outcry from anglers and angling groups, NOAA Fisheries has announced adjusted daily retention limits for recreational Atlantic bluefin tuna fishing, effective July 1 through December 31, 2025. These changes apply to vessels fishing under the HMS Angling and Charter/Headboat permits.
Updated retention limits per vessel per day/trip:
- Private vessels (HMS Angling permit): 1 bluefin tuna measuring 27” to <73”.
- Charter/Headboats (HMS Charter/Headboat permit): 2 bluefin tuna measuring 27” to <73”, only 1 of which may be in the 47” to <73” range.
These limits apply regardless of trip duration, and catch reporting remains mandatory within 24 hours via the HMS Permit Shop, app, or phone.
NOAA Fisheries had previously announced that effective June 3, 2025, private boats targeting Atlantic bluefin tuna would be limited to retaining just one “school” bluefin between 27 and 47 inches. Charter and headboats would have been allowed slightly more flexibility, with a limit of two school-sized bluefin in the same size range. The limits drew sharp criticism from anglers and sportfishing organizations who argued that the cuts are out of step with the health of the fishery.
So if you’re on a charter w 4 or more guys, you only get to keep 2 fish. And if it’s your own boat – no matter how any people, 1 fish? Wow. What are boats like the Helen H gonna do with 20 or 30 guys on board tuna fishing? What do you do if 4 people want some dinner table tuna..? Split a 27″ fish between 4 or y guys?
So if you’re on a charter w 4 or more guys, you only get to keep 2 fish. And if it’s your own boat – no matter how many people, 1 fish? Wow. What are boats like the Helen H gonna do with 20 or 30 guys on board tuna fishing? What do you do if 4 people want some dinner table tuna..? Split a 27″ fish between 4 or 6 guys?
So the guys down in NJ and Maryland exceeded their quota by 10%. Noaa decides to cut our quota by 66% to make up for it?
I suppose they eill cut the commercial quota by 66% too – right?
I especially love the recreational trophy fish we are allowed each year – of course that quota is always reached before the Tuna even arrive in our waters? Noaa needs a serious DOGE and a complete federal review of its policies before they completely ruin our fisheries!
Over regulation dictated by so called ocean biologists whom never held a rod ,only held a degree. Sad but true!