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Tuesday, April 16, 2024
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Recreational Fishing Guidlines and Whelk Seasonal Closure Given

The Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds everyone during this Easter season about safe recreational fishing within the U.S. Virgin Islands, according to a press release Thursday by the Department of Planning and Natural Resources
Recreational Fishing
  • Does not require a license or permit
  • Is the harvest and/or catch of marine resources for consumption only, not sale
Allowable recreational fishing gear
· Hand line, rod and reel
· By hand with scuba and/or free dive
· Spear gun, Hawaiian sling
· Cast net
Minimum Size Lengths
Please be aware of the following minimum size requirements
Yellowtail snapper – minimum size, 12 inches (fork length)
Queen conch – minimum size, 9 inches (shell length from spire to base end)
Spiny lobster – minimum size, 3 1/2 inches (carapace length)
Whelk (West Indian Top Shell), no harvest and/or possession, April 1 through Sept. 30
Have you or someone you know seen the Indo-Pacific lionfish? This fish is venomous. If stung, apply hot water immediately to affected area.
If there are any questions, comments or concerns – call the Division of Fish and Wildlife
St. Croix district 773-1082 / St. Thomas district 775-6762

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