Maine Scallop Grounds Shut to Limited Fishers Starting 2025
Published Date: 4/16/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting in 2025, scallop fishing will be closed in the Northern Gulf of Maine for most limited access general category boats to protect scallop populations. This closure kicks in once the scallop catch limit is reached, but the area might reopen later if new rules get approved. Fishermen need to watch for official announcements to know when they can or can’t fish there.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
2025 NGOM Scallop Area Closure
Starting in 2025, the Northern Gulf of Maine (NGOM) scallop area is closed to most Limited Access General Category vessels for the remainder of the 2025 fishing year. Once the Regional Administrator publishes a Federal Register notice that the NGOM Set-Aside has been reached, possession, retention, or landing of scallops in the NGOM is prohibited, subject to specific enumerated exceptions.
Possible Reopening via Framework 39
The NGOM area may be reopened to Limited Access General Category vessels if Framework 39 is approved and implemented after the closure. Any reopening depends on approval of Framework 39 and subsequent notice.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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