Alaska cod fishing halted early by trawl boats in Gulf
Published Date: 3/20/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting March 17, 2025, catcher vessels using trawl gear in the Western Gulf of Alaska must stop fishing for Pacific cod because they’ve nearly caught their full allowed amount for the season. This temporary closure lasts until June 10, 2025, helping protect fish stocks and keep the fishing fair for everyone. Fishermen need to plan ahead to avoid penalties and adjust their fishing plans during this period.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary closure for trawl catcher vessels
Starting at 1200 hours Alaska local time on March 17, 2025, directed fishing for Pacific cod by catcher vessels using trawl gear in the Western Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska is prohibited through 1200 hours Alaska local time on June 10, 2025. During this period vessels cannot target Pacific cod in that area.
A-season quota set at 1,856 metric tons
The A season allowance of the 2025 Pacific cod total allowable catch apportioned to catcher vessels using trawl gear in the Western Regulatory Area is 1,856 metric tons, and NMFS is establishing a directed fishing allowance of 1,856 mt with 0 mt set aside as bycatch. This action is taken because the Regional Administrator found the A season allowance will soon be reached.
Retainable amounts apply during trips
While the closure is in effect, the maximum retainable amounts specified at 50 CFR 679.20(e) and (f) apply at any time during a trip. Vessels must follow those retainable limits when on a fishing trip in the area during the closure.
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