25 inch minimum size cleithrum to caudal keel length if head removed.
Swordfish may be harvested with rod and reel and/or handline.
Swordfish captured but not retained must be released in a manner that will ensure maximum probability of survival. Do NOT remove the fish from the water.
No more than one daily limit may be possessed onboard a vessel regardless of the length of the trip.
Anglers must report all recreational billfish landings. Report all non-tournament recreational Atlantic billfish landings to NMFS within 24 hours by calling
1-800-894-5528 or
hmspermits.noaa.gov.
All highly migratory species require an HMS Angling Permit from NOAA Fisheries. Permits are available by calling
1-888-872-8862, or by visiting
hmspermits.noaa.gov. No sale permitted for HMS species caught under an HMS Angling Permit.
For complete HMS regulations contact NOAA Fisheries HMS Management Division at
1-301-427-8503 or visit
www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/atlantic-highly-migratory-speciesThe DESCEND Act requires anglers to have a venting tool or descending device rigged and ready to use when fishing for reef fish species in Gulf of America federal waters.
Get the required release gear for FREE by completing a 15-minute training from Return 'Em Right. Get started here: https://returnemright.org/