NOAA Shrinks Gillnet Twine to Save Porpoises in Jersey Waters
Published Date: 1/2/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting January 2, 2026, fishermen using gillnets in the New Jersey Atlantic Sturgeon Bycatch Reduction Area can use a new, smaller twine size that matches Monkfish fishery rules. This change helps protect harbor porpoises and Atlantic sturgeon while letting fishermen follow one simple gear rule. Comments on this update are open until February 2, 2026, so everyone can weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Gillnet Twine Size Reduced to 0.81 mm
Starting January 2, 2026, the minimum twine diameter in the Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan's Mid‑Atlantic areas is changed from 0.90 mm to 0.81 mm so fishermen in the New Jersey Atlantic Sturgeon Bycatch Reduction Area (NJP) can use the low‑profile gillnet gear required by the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan. This change prevents an unintended closure of the NJP that would have affected an average of nine federally permitted monkfish vessels (2021–2024) that collectively generated $156,640 in revenue during January–April (2024 dollars). The rule lets affected small fishing businesses continue fishing in the NJP without modifying gear or losing access.
No New Burden Outside NJP
If you fish outside the New Jersey Atlantic Sturgeon Bycatch Reduction Area, this rule does not impose new gear requirements and is not expected to cause negative economic effects. The change increases flexibility by expanding the range of allowed twine sizes so fishermen do not need to change gear when moving between the NJP and other areas.
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