Feds Plan Webinars to Keep Spiny Lobsters Swimming Sustainably

2026-05599 — Deep Seabed Mining: Notice of Receipt of Applications for Deep Seabed Mining Exploration Licenses and Announcement of Public Comment Period and Virtual Public Hearings

NOAA got two applications from companies wanting to explore mining deep under the ocean floor. They’re holding virtual public meetings in April and want your thoughts by May 22, 2026. This affects anyone interested in ocean mining and how we protect our seas while exploring new resources.

2026-04256 — Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Spatial Fisheries Management; Amendment 15 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan

Starting April 3, 2026, new rules change shark fishing zones and times in the Atlantic to better protect sharks and manage fishing risks. Fishermen using bottom and pelagic longline gear will see updated area boundaries and must pay for electronic monitoring if fishing in certain safer zones. These changes help keep shark populations healthy while supporting responsible fishing.

2026-10891 — Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fisheries; Harpoon Category Retention Limit Adjustment

Starting June 1, 2026, fishermen using harpoons to catch Atlantic bluefin tuna can only keep up to 5 big tuna per day instead of 10. This rule helps protect tuna populations and lasts until November 15, 2026, unless changed earlier. It affects all vessels with Harpoon category permits and aims to balance fishing fun with smart conservation.

2026-10889 — Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of America, and South Atlantic; Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of America; 2026-2027 Recreational Closure for Greater Amberjack

Starting September 1, 2026, recreational fishers in the Gulf of America can catch greater amberjack, but the season will close early on October 14, 2026, to protect the fish population. This temporary closure lasts until July 31, 2027, helping keep amberjack numbers healthy for future fun. If you love fishing, plan your trips before mid-October to avoid missing out!

2026-10644 — New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

The New England Fishery Management Council is holding a public meeting on June 2, 2026, to plan scallop fishing rules and research priorities for 2027-2029. This affects fishermen and communities relying on scallop fishing by shaping future fishing limits and strategies. The meeting will help guide decisions that could impact fishing seasons, quotas, and funding for scallop research.

2026-10816 — Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fisheries; Angling Category Retention Limit Adjustment

Starting June 1, 2026, anglers fishing for Atlantic bluefin tuna can keep more fish per trip! Private boats can keep 2 tuna, charter boats 3, and headboats 6, with some size limits and only one bigger tuna allowed. These new rules last until the end of 2026 and help balance fun fishing with protecting tuna populations.

Previous: 2025-03641 — Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission are teaming up for a public meeting about managing Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish. Fishermen, seafood lovers, and coastal communities will get updates and can share their thoughts on fishing rules and seasons. This meeting helps make sure fish populations stay healthy while supporting local jobs and businesses.

Next: 2025-03643 — Western Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings

The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding several important meetings to plan and decide on fishing rules in the Western Pacific. These meetings affect fishermen, local communities, and businesses by shaping how fish are managed and protected. Expect updates on budgets, international fishing, and new plans that could impact fishing seasons and money matters soon.