13 May 2025

🐟Proposed Fishing Regulations for Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; 2025-2026 Specifications for the Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan

Summary

NMFS proposes 2025-2026 specifications for the Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP), as recommended by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council). This action proposes new 2025 and projected 2026 butterfish fishery specifications, and reaffirmed 2025 chub mackerel, Illex squid, longfin squid, and Atlantic mackerel fishery specifications. The proposed specifications are intended to establish allowable harvest levels that will prevent overfishing, consistent with the most recent scientific information. This action would also adjust the minimum square mesh size for directed butterfish trawl trips; account for a 2024 Atlantic mackerel annual catch limit overage (if applicable); and correct existing regulations.

Agencies

  • Commerce Department
  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Business Impact ?

$$ - Med

The regulatory text outlines proposed specifications for fisheries management, including allowable catch limits and adjustments to fishing gear regulations, which directly affect business operations in the fishing industry. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory for fishery businesses.

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