Alaska Closes Perch Fishing to Protect Bering Sea Stocks
Published Date: 11/5/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting November 4, 2025, fishing boats in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands can’t fish for Pacific ocean perch in the Eastern Aleutian district. This temporary closure helps keep the 2025 catch limit from being exceeded, protecting the fish and the fishing industry. The rule affects trawl limited access vessels and lasts until the end of 2025, ensuring a fair and sustainable fishing season.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Pacific Ocean Perch Closure
Starting at 1200 Alaska local time on November 4, 2025, vessels participating in the BSAI trawl limited access sector are prohibited from directed fishing for Pacific ocean perch in the Eastern Aleutian district through 2400 A.l.t. on December 31, 2025. The closure was issued to prevent the sector from exceeding its 2025 directed fishing allowance of 551 metric tons.
Retention Limits Apply During Closure
While the closure is in effect (1200 A.l.t., November 4, 2025, through 2400 A.l.t., December 31, 2025), the maximum retainable amounts at Sec. 679.20(e) and (f) apply at any time during a trip, limiting how much Pacific ocean perch vessels may keep as incidental catch. This restriction applies to vessels participating in the BSAI trawl limited access sector during the closure period.
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