The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission has announced that the statewide closure for Southern Flounder will commence this month. Starting October 15, both commercial and recreational fishers will need to refrain from harvesting these fish until November 30. This break in fishing activity, as reported by Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, aims to allow the flounder population, currently deemed overfished, to recover and spawn.
During this closure period, there will be absolutely no exemptions, not even for flounder caught unintentionally as bycatch in shrimp nets. This is a significant decision made by the LWFC, which holds the authority to adjust shrimping bycatch allowances, especially if the fish stock is considered to be overfished or is experiencing overfishing.
The conservation measures are a response to the Southern Flounder being labelled as overfished. The annual closed season is a strategic move to protect the mature female flounder. It is designed to give them an unfettered path to migrate offshore for spawning, critical for the sustainability of the species.
Anglers and commercial fishers are urged to take note of these dates and to plan their activities accordingly. The Southern Flounder is an integral part of the marine ecosystem and the regional economy, making the enforcement of these regulations a priority for ecological balance and the future health of the fishery industry.
