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Atlantic Swordfish
Swordfish are one of the largest and fastest predators in the Atlantic Ocean and can reach a maximum size of nearly 1,200 pounds. They are distinguished by a large, flat, smooth bill that grows from the upper jaw. |
ICCAT Stock Assessments Fishwatch: North Atlantic Swordfish Article: North Atlantic Swordfish – A Sustainable Choice |
Buy or Renew an HMS Fishing Permit
A federal fishing permit is required to fish for swordfish (recreationally or commercially) in federal waters of the U.S. Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea, and landed (retained) swordfish must be reported recreationally within 24 hours of landing, or reported commercially by a federally-permitted swordfish dealer.
HMS Angling (recreational) permit | HMS Charter/Headboat permit | Swordfish General Commercial permit |
Limited Access Federal Swordfish Permits (Commercial): Contact the Southeast Regional Permits Office for information on renewing, selling, or buying an existing permit. No new limited access permits are being issued.
Report an Atlantic Swordfish Recreational Landing
Spanish Recreational Reporting Reminder [PDF]
Recreational Fishing
- Recreational Compliance Guide [PDF]
- Atlantic HMS Fishing Tournaments
- HMS Recreational Fishing Action Plan [PDF]
- NOAA Regional Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Initiatives