The Tribune

THE Department of Marine Resources has advised that the 2017 closed season for the capturing of crawfish starts on April 1 and runs to July 31.

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

A statement from the department said: “Persons possessing crawfish trapping permits, crawfish exporter’s licenses, and permits authorising the use of air compressors are reminded that these all expire on March 31, 2017.

“After March 31, 2017, all crawfish traps must be stored on land and all crawfish processors must file a report to the Department of Marine Resources stating the quantity of crawfish on hand as of April 1, 2017.

“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 utilisation of an air compressor during the period April 1, 2017 to July 31, 2017 to aid in any fishing in The Bahamas is prohibited. 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 law.

“The Department of Marine Resources requests the full co-operation of all persons concerned.”