NOAA Renews Pacific Islands Fishing Catch Reporting Requirements
Published Date: 12/9/2025
Notice
Summary
NOAA is asking for public feedback on extending the Pacific Islands fishing logbook forms that boat owners use to report their catch and protected species encounters. This helps keep fish populations healthy and protects endangered animals. Comments are open until February 9, 2026, and there’s no new cost—just a chance to share your thoughts!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory Pacific Islands Fishing Reports
If you operate or own a vessel in Federally-managed fisheries in the Pacific Islands Region, you are required to submit catch and protected-species interaction reports to NOAA under 50 CFR 665.14. The collection covers an estimated 599 respondents, averages 16 minutes per report, totals about 6,911 burden hours annually, and lists an estimated total annual cost to the public of $523.
Electronic Logbook Use for Specific Fleets
The Hawaii and American Samoa pelagic longline fisheries will submit reports using electronic logbooks (computer tablets or other devices), with paper logbooks used only if there are equipment or transmission failures. Other Pacific Islands Region fisheries will continue to use paper logbooks only.
Pre-Trip Notifications for Longline Vessels
Longline vessel operators are required to submit pre-trip notifications that include trip type, departure time, and transit through protected-species zones as specified in 50 CFR 665.803. Other fisheries must submit notifications of trip return, unloading, or sales per applicable subparts of 50 CFR 665.
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