I’ve got good news and I’ve got bad news. The good news is that this year, you’ll be able to keep some of the billions upon billions of triggerfish that have infested our local reefs. The bad news is that starting 1 March 2018 when they reopen for harvest, you’ll only be able to keep one, and it’s got to be a minimum of 15 inches long. It also looks like after reopening this March, they will only be closed June & July…more good news I suppose but don’t count on that rule going unchanged all year. The one fish bag limit seems overly restrictive to me. This state law reflects federal law.
I’m still puzzled by the science used to count this particular fish. Is it just me, or are you folks out there seeing the same thing as I? Every reef I fish anymore, is covered with these fish in huge numbers! I don’t get it, help me understand! I’d love to know what it is I’m missing. This really continues to put a strain on my fish taco habit.
Visit the experts at Howell Tackle to gear up and get answers to any questions you have about reef fishing rules, regulations and proper tackle required. They’ve got you covered for a successful reef fishing trip.
~ Capt. Randy Cnota