New Grouper Legislation in effect for the Cayman Islands
This year sees the introduction of new legislation in the marine industry which will affect the Cayman Islands.
Effective from January no person may take, receive, or possess any Nassau grouper from any designated grouper spawning area.
This legislation will be effective through 31 December of this year and will alternate every other year ie: every odd-numbered year, 2005, 2007 etc.
During the years in which Nassau grouper are allowed to be taken,ie: every even-numbered year, 2004, 2006 etc., a limit of 12 grouper per boat, per day applies.
No Nassau grouper less than 12 inches in length may be taken from anywhere in Cayman waters at any time.
During the period November through March inclusive, no fish pot may be placed within one nautical mile of any designated grouper spawning area.
The Marine Conservation Board may, by notice in the Cayman Islands Gazette, suspend or change the restrictions regarding any designated grouper spawning area(s) from time to time as necessary.
The following areas are designated as Grouper Spawning Areas: Grand Cayman, (1) Coxswain Bank area, East End, (2) The area south west of Sand Cay, South West Point
Little Cayman, (1) The area east of Point of Sand, Eastern Point. (2) The area west of West End Lighthouse.
Cayman Brac, (1) The area east of the Bluff off North East Point, (2) The area south west of West End Point.
Due to the shape of the Sister Islands, the shoreward boundaries of the designated spawning areas off the western ends of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are defined by the 50ft. depth contour.
The area of shallow water between the 50ft. depth contour and the shore has been left open to provide fishermen with a calm leeward location in which to bottom fish.
Coordinates and dimensions of each designated area can be obtained from the Department of Environment.