Antigua and Barbuda's Fisheries Division has announced closed seasons for Caribbean spiny lobster and parrotfish, both beginning May 1, according to Antigua News Room. Violators face fines of up to XCD$50,000.
The closed season for Caribbean spiny lobster runs from May 1 through June 30. During this period, no person is permitted to fish for, take, sell, purchase, or possess any Caribbean spiny lobster.
The closed season for parrotfish — known locally as "chub" — begins on the same date but extends further, running from May 1 through July 31. The same restrictions apply: fishing for, taking, selling, purchasing, or possessing parrotfish is prohibited throughout this period.
Anyone found contravening these regulations commits an offence under the Fisheries Regulations and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding fifty thousand Eastern Caribbean dollars (XCD$50,000.00).
Chief Fisheries Officer Ian Horsford noted that the closed seasons correspond with the peak spawning period for both species — a critical time for the replenishment of fish stocks in local waters.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any violations to the Fisheries Division by email at [email protected] or [email protected], or by telephone at 462-1372 or 462-6106.
