The Department of Marine Resources wishes to advise the general public that the closed season of the capture of crawfish is from 1st April, 2019 to 31st July, 2019 inclusive.

During this period it is an offence for persons to take, capture, have in possession, kill or offer for sale any fresh or live crawfish.

Persons possessing crawfish trapping permits, crawfish exporters’ licenses and permits authorizing the use of air compressors are reminded that these permits all expire on 31st March, 2019. After this time all crawfish traps must be stored on land

All crawfish processors, restaurants and exporters who possess a substantial quantity of crawfish at the closed season must declare the held quantity to the Department of Marine Resources stating the quantity of crawfish on hand as of 1st April, 2019. Crawfish processors wishing to export any crawfish during the closed season are reminded that they must first obtain a special permit from the Department of Marine Resources to do so.

The use of air compressor to assist in harvesting marine resources from the period 1st April, 2019 to 31st July, 2019 is strictly prohibited. The general public is reminded during this period that fishers must not have marine resources and the air compressor onboard the vessels at any time.

Fisheries Inspectors will be on alert to ensure compliance with the regulations during the closed season and violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the laws.

The Department of Marine Resources requests the full co-operation of all persons concerned towards its goal of ensuring the sustainable development of the fishing industry in The Bahamas.