Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Angling Category Fishery to Close Effective August 12, 2025

State of MD - The Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Angling Category Fishery for all sizes and areas will close on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 11:30 p.m. local time. This closure will remain in effect for the rest of the calendar year, ending on December 31, 2025.

During this period, recreational fishermen will still be able to participate in catch-and-release or tag-and-release programs for bluefin tuna. The requirements specific to these programs must be followed.

Additionally, recreational fishermen may continue to harvest other highly migratory species, including other types of tuna, during the closure.

Reason for Closure

The closure is based on the latest available landings data. It has been determined that the preliminary adjusted quota for the Angling category bluefin tuna, including the Gulf of Maine Trophy quota, has been reached.

Permits Affected

The closure applies to vessels with Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Angling and HMS Charter/Head boat permits fishing recreationally for bluefin tuna. Specifically:

• Recreational fishermen on vessels with HMS Angling or HMS Charter/Head boat permits may not retain, possess, or land any Atlantic bluefin tuna during the closure period.
• This prohibition includes all size categories of Atlantic bluefin tuna, such as school, large school, small medium, large medium, and giant-sized tuna.

Commercial Fishery Unaffected

It is important to note that this closure does not impact the commercial fishing sector for bluefin tuna.

For further information or clarification regarding the closure, recreational anglers are encouraged to consult additional resources or contact relevant authorities managing Atlantic Highly Migratory Species.