Alaska Cod Quotas Leap from Pots to Processors in Federal Fish Shuffle
Published Date: 12/5/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting December 4, 2025, some Pacific cod that big fishing boats using pots can’t catch will be given to catcher/processor boats using pots in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands. This switch helps make sure the total allowed catch for 2025 is fully used, benefiting fishermen and the seafood market. The change lasts until the end of 2025 and moves 200 metric tons of fish between groups.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Catch Increase for Pot-gear Catcher/Processors
Starting December 4, 2025, catcher/processor vessels using pot gear in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands get an extra 200 metric tons of Pacific cod, raising their 2025 allocation from 1,894 mt to 2,094 mt through December 31, 2025.
Allocation Cut for Large Pot-gear Catcher Vessels
From December 4 to December 31, 2025, catcher vessels 60 feet (18.3 m) or longer using pot gear in the BSAI lose 200 metric tons of Pacific cod, reducing their 2025 allocation from 10,605 mt to 10,405 mt.
Ensures Full Use of 2025 Pacific Cod TAC
The December 4–December 31, 2025 reallocation of 200 mt is intended to allow the full 2025 total allowable catch (TAC) of Pacific cod to be harvested, which the rule says will benefit fishermen and the seafood market.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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