Caribbean's 189th Fish Fest: Join the Hybrid Chat
Published Date: 4/7/2026
Notice
Summary
The Caribbean Fishery Management Council is holding its 189th meeting on April 21-22, 2026, both in person in St. Croix and online. Fishermen, local businesses, and seafood lovers will hear updates on fishery plans and science, with possible changes that could affect fishing rules and local economies. This meeting sets the stage for important decisions that could impact fishing seasons and community incomes soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 6 mixed.
Spiny Lobster Reference Review
On April 21, 2026, the Council will review and may take final action on Framework Action 4 to the St. Croix and St. Thomas/St. John Fishery Management Plans to revise spiny lobster reference points based on SEDAR 91. This agenda item could lead to changes in how the spiny lobster fishery is managed.
Pelagic Stocks Accountability Revision
On April 21, 2026, the Council will consider an options paper to revise accountability measures for pelagic stocks. Any changes discussed could alter rules that affect pelagic fishing operations.
2026 Catch Limit Monitoring Update
The Council will receive 2026 Annual Catch Limit monitoring updates on April 22, 2026. These updates relate to how catch limits are tracked and could inform future limits or management actions.
Fish Aggregation Device Permitting
On April 22, 2026, the agenda includes information on permitting and research on Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs). This discussion relates to permitting processes that may affect fishers and research operators.
Aquaculture Workshop and Red Snapper EFP
On April 22, 2026 the Council will receive the Caribbean Marine Aquaculture Workshop 2026 report and note a Red Snapper aquaculture Exempted Fishing Permit application submitted to the South Atlantic Council by Cultimar Technologies. These items concern aquaculture development and permit activity in the region.
Update on IRA‑Funded Caribbean Projects
The Council agenda includes a Caribbean IRA-funded projects update on April 22, 2026. This item reports on projects funded under the Inflation Reduction Act that are relevant to the U.S. Caribbean.
New Seafood App Demonstration
On April 22, 2026 from 8:15 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. AST, the Council will hear about a new app for fishers, dealers, and consumers of U.S. Caribbean seafood. The app is intended for use by fishery participants and seafood buyers and consumers.
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