Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriol of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources reminds the public that the seasonal closure for harvesting Black Snapper (Apsilus dentatus), Blackfin Snapper (Lutjanus buccanella), Vermilion Snapper (Rhomboplites aurorubens), and Silk Snapper (Lutjanus vivanus) ended at midnight on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, as outlined in 50 CFR 622.479(b)(2); 50 CFR 622.514(b)(2); V.I.R.R. Title 12, Chapter 9A §§316-13 & 316-114.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, harvest of these species will be permitted through midnight on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. These seasonal restrictions are designed to protect these species during critical spawning periods, ensuring sustainable fisheries and the long-term health of Virgin Islands marine resources.
• A recreational or commercial fishing license is required to harvest Black, Blackfin, Vermilion, and Silk Snapper.
• Harvest is allowed in both federal and territorial waters.
• Recreational bag limits:
o Maximum 5 fish per person per day, with no more than 2 parrotfish.
o Maximum 15 fish per vessel per day, with no more than 6 parrotfish in federal waters.
• Hind Bank Marine Conservation District (south of St. Thomas): Fishing and anchoring by fishing vessels are prohibited year-round.
• Red Hind Spawning Aggregation Area (east of St. Croix): Closed to fishing from Dec. 1 through the last day of February.
Recreational licenses can be purchased online at https://www.gooutdoorsusvi.com/ For questions or more information, contact: Division of Fish and Wildlife at DFWelectronic@usvi.onmicrosoft.com Or call 340-773-1082 (St. Croix) | 340-775-6762 (St. Thomas). “We ask for everyone’s cooperation to protect Virgin Islands resources for the present and future benefit of the people of the Virgin Islands,” Oriol said.
