North Carolina Hands Flounder Quota to Massachusetts Fishermen
Published Date: 12/4/2025
Rule
Summary
North Carolina is sharing some of its 2025 summer flounder fishing quota with Massachusetts to help both states meet their fishing goals. This change kicks in on December 3, 2025, and lasts through the end of the year. Fishermen in both states should get ready for the updated limits, which aim to keep the fishery healthy and fair.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Massachusetts Landings and Purchases Prohibited
NMFS announced on November 7, 2025, that Massachusetts' 2025 commercial summer flounder quota had been harvested. Effective 0001 hours November 7, 2025, through December 31, 2025, federally permitted vessels are prohibited from landing summer flounder in Massachusetts, and federally permitted dealers may not purchase summer flounder from vessels that land in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Gains 1,801 lb Quota
On December 3, 2025, North Carolina transferred 1,801 pounds (817 kg) of its 2025 commercial summer flounder quota to Massachusetts. After the transfer, Massachusetts' revised 2025 commercial quota is 596,041 lb (270,360 kg) for the remainder of the year through December 31, 2025.
North Carolina Loses 1,801 lb Quota
Because of the transfer on December 3, 2025, North Carolina's 2025 commercial summer flounder quota is reduced by 1,801 lb (817 kg). North Carolina's revised 2025 commercial quota is 2,332,603 lb (1,058,051 kg) through December 31, 2025.
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