Alaska groundfish limits adjusted for smooth sailing in Bering Sea
Published Date: 12/23/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting December 22, 2025, the government is adjusting fishing limits for certain flatfish and octopus in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands to keep the fishery running smoothly. This temporary change helps fishermen stay on track while protecting the ocean’s health. If you’re involved in these fisheries, you can share your thoughts by January 6, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
500 mt Increase for Other Flatfish
From December 22, 2025 through December 31, 2025, NMFS apportioned 500 metric tons (mt) from nonspecified reserves to the 2025 total allowable catch (TAC) for “other flatfish,” raising the TAC from 5,225 mt to 5,725 mt. This temporary change is meant to let the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands fisheries continue operating; comments are accepted until January 6, 2026.
100 mt Increase for Octopuses
From December 22, 2025 through December 31, 2025, NMFS apportioned 100 metric tons (mt) from nonspecified reserves to octopuses, raising the 2025 TAC for octopuses from 400 mt to 440 mt (the previously stated ITAC was 340 mt). This temporary apportionment is intended to promote efficient use of resources and allow related fishing operations to continue; comments are accepted until January 6, 2026.
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