15 Sep 2025
🎣NMFS Prohibits Retention of Blackspotted and Rougheye Rockfish
Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Blackspotted and Rougheye Rockfish in the Central Aleutian and Western Aleutian Districts of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area
Summary
NMFS is prohibiting retention of blackspotted and rougheye rockfish in the Central Aleutian Island and Western Aleutian Island districts (CAI/WAI) of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area (BSAI). This action is necessary because the 2025 blackspotted and rougheye rockfish total allowable catch (TAC) in the CAI/WAI of the BSAI will soon be or has been reached.
Agencies
- Commerce Department
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Business Impact
$$$ - High
The regulation directly impacts businesses engaged in fisheries within the specified management area by prohibiting the retention of certain rockfish species due to exceeded catch limits. This could affect operations, revenue, and compliance with fishing regulations, making it critical for seafood businesses to adjust their practices accordingly.