Flounder Nets Get Looser: Fishermen Cheer, Fish Hold Breath
Published Date: 9/16/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
This update changes the rules for commercial summer flounder fishing by adjusting the minimum mesh size exemptions. It helps fishermen have more flexibility while keeping fish populations healthy. These changes affect commercial fishers in the Northeast and aim to balance business needs with conservation starting soon after approval.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Mesh-Size Exemptions Changed for Commercial Fishery
The rule would change exemptions to the minimum mesh size requirements in the commercial summer flounder fishery. You are affected if you are a commercial fisher in the Northeastern United States because the change increases flexibility for the commercial fishing industry and is intended to keep fish populations healthy. The changes take effect soon after approval.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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