Cayman Net News
   Welcome to Cayman Net News Online: Today's print edition 
Search: web our site     



News from the Cayman Islands for

Back To Today's News

Lobster season officially opens

Published on Wednesday, December 2, 2009 Email To Friend    Print Version

The open season for lobster has officially begun from 1 December and runs through 28 February 2010, the Department of Environment (DoE) has announced.

During the open season, the catch limit for lobster is three (3) per person or six (6) per boat per day, whichever is less. Lobsters caught must have a minimum tail length of six inches and only spiny lobster (P. argus) may be taken. Lobsters may not be taken from any marine protected area at any time.

The DoE maintains that no one may use a speargun (this includes Hawaiian slings, polespear, harpoon, hookstick or any device with a pointed end which may be used to impale, stab or pierce any marine life but does not include a striker) without a licence from the Marine Conservation Board.

It is also a violation of the Marine Conservation Law for persons to take any marine life alive or dead while on SCUBA, to wear gloves while diving or snorkelling in Cayman waters, and to fish with gill nets, poison or other noxious substances.

Violation of this and any of the Marine Conservation Laws is an offence carrying a maximum penalty of CI$500,000 fine and one year in jail. Upon conviction, forfeiture of the vessel or other equipment may also be ordered.

The DoE is also warning the public of the possibility that lionfish may be present in holes where lobsters may hide. These invasive species have venomous spines that can cause painful wounds when touched. If stung, individuals should seek medical attention immediately.

Persons may contact the DoE at 916 4271 (Grand Cayman), 926 0136 (Cayman Brac), or 926 2342 (Little Cayman) or call 911 to report violations of any marine conservation legislation. For the location of marine protected areas, rules and regulations please visit the Department’s website at www.doe.ky or reference the Island Pages in the Cayman Islands Yellow Pages.
 
Reads : 718


Back...

Comments:

No comments on this topic yet. Be the first one to submit a comment.

Back...

Send us your comments!  

Send us your comments on this article for publication in our Readers' Forum or as a Letter to the Editor. All fields are required. For your contribution to reach us, you must (a) provide a valid e-mail address and (b) click on the validation link that will be sent to the e-mail address you provide. If the address is not valid or you don't click on the validation link, it will be a waste of your time typing your submission because we will never see it!

Your Name:
Your Email: (Validation required)
Comments:
Enter Validation Code *


 
Click here for the latest print edition