BOSTON — Regulators have approved a 5.6 million pound increase in the amount of dogfish that fishermen can catch in state waters on the Atlantic coast.

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, which regulates dogfish in state waters from Maine to North Carolina, on Friday announced the 35.6 million pound quota for the 2012-2013 fishing year.

State waters extend three miles from shore. Federal regulators have jurisdiction beyond that.

The dogfish, a small shark, is eaten mainly overseas in fish and chips and other dishes. The voracious eater is blamed by fishermen for destroying gear and devouring other, more valuable fish species. Fishermen have long wanted to catch more.

Fishermen with the Cape Cod Commercial Hook Fishermen’s Association hailed the increase, saying it’s badly needed with tightening limits on other species.

 


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