The Department of Marine Resources has advised the general public that the waters surrounding High Cay, off the coast of Central Andros, will be designated as a “Protected Area” from December 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013. During this period all forms of fishing will be prohibited in the area around High Cay as specified below.
The designated “Protected Area” is bounded in the North by latitude 24º40’N, in the South by 24º37.8’N, in the East by longitude 77º40.8’W, and in the West by longitude 77º44’W, and encompassing an area of approximately seven (7) square miles.
The Department of Marine Resources further wishes to advise that the taking, landing, possessing, selling and offering for sale of Nassau Grouper will be prohibited during the period 1st December 2012 to 28th February, 2013 throughout The Bahamas. Further, any grouper that is caught must be landed with head, tail and skin intact.
The above measures are a part of the efforts being made to ensure the commercial fishery for Nassau Grouper in The Bahamas will be sustained for the benefit of present and future generations of Bahamian fishermen and consumers.
The Department of Marine Resources request the cooperation of all, fishermen and the general public in this regard. Persons found in violation of the above will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
By Bahamas Information Services