Fish Folks Unite: South Atlantic's Science Webinar Call

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.

2026-11987 — Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Skate Complex; 2026 and Projected 2027 and 2028 Specifications

Starting June 15, 2026, new skate fishing rules kick in for the Northeast U.S. These rules set catch limits for 2026 and projections for 2027 and 2028, while letting fishers keep more skate wings and bait per trip. This helps protect skate populations and gives fishers more freedom to work smart and steady.

2026-11960 — Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to the City of Kodiak St. Herman Harbor Infrastructure Rebuild Project

The City of Kodiak got permission to do construction work on St. Herman Harbor that might accidentally disturb some local marine mammals. This work will happen in two phases, each lasting up to a year starting June 2026, and the project promises to keep impacts on animals very low. It’s a big step to improve the harbor while protecting wildlife and respecting local needs.

2026-11986 — Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Mid-Atlantic Blueline Tilefish and Golden Tilefish Fisheries; 2026 Specifications

Starting June 15, 2026, new fishing rules set how many golden and blueline tilefish can be caught north of the North Carolina/Virginia border. These limits help keep fish populations healthy while supporting both commercial and recreational fishers. If you fish or sell these tilefish, get ready for updated catch limits that balance fun, food, and the future!

2026-11859 — Fisheries of the Gulf of America; Southeast Data, Assessment, and Review; Public Meeting

Fishermen, environmental groups, and fishery managers in the Gulf and South Atlantic are invited to join a free webinar on June 29, 2026, kicking off a big review of Black Sea Bass fish stocks. This review will help decide how to keep fishing fair and fish populations healthy, with no immediate cost changes but important future management decisions ahead. Everyone’s input counts in this step-by-step process to protect our ocean friends and fishing jobs.

Previous: 2025-19146 — Council Coordination Committee Meeting; Public Meeting

The Council Coordination Committee, made up of leaders from eight regional fishery groups, will meet online on October 15-16, 2025. They'll talk about important fishing rules and plans that affect how fish are managed across the country. This meeting helps make sure fishing stays smart and sustainable, with no direct costs or deadlines for the public.

Next: 2025-19148 — Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council is hosting a public meeting for their Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Advisory Panel. Fishermen, seafood lovers, and coastal communities will get updates and can share their thoughts on managing these important fish. The meeting helps decide rules that keep fish populations healthy and fishing fair, with no immediate costs but big benefits for the future.