New Permits Allow Eco Buoy Gear for West Coast Swordfish Fishing
Published Date: 1/12/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting February 1, 2026, fishermen off the West Coast can apply for special permits to use deep-set buoy gear, a new fishing method that helps catch swordfish while protecting other sea creatures. These permits are limited and part of a careful plan to keep fishing fair and sustainable. If you want in, don’t miss the March 31 deadline to apply and boost your fishing game!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Permit Applications Open Feb 1–Mar 31, 2026
You can apply for a limited entry deep-set buoy gear (DSBG) permit starting February 1, 2026 through March 31, 2026. Submit a complete application through the National Permits System by 11:59 p.m. Pacific daylight time on March 31, 2026 to be considered.
Annual Limit: 25 Permits Per Year Until 300
NMFS will issue up to 25 Tier 9 limited entry DSBG permits each year until a total of 300 permits are issued. Permits are issued first-come, first-served by application date/time; if more than 25 are approved in a year, approved applicants above 25 get priority the following year by their application timestamp.
DSBG Authorized to Boost Fishery Viability
Deep-set buoy gear (DSBG) is authorized as an additional commercial gear type under Amendment 6 to help improve the economic viability of the West Coast-based swordfish fishery while minimizing bycatch. Tier 9 implements the final phase of a phased-in limited entry permitting regime for DSBG in Federal waters off California and Oregon.
Application Rules, Eligibility, Documentation, Fees
To qualify for a Tier 9 LE DSBG permit you must be a “person” as defined in Sec. 660.702 and must not already own a LE DSBG permit individually or as a shareholder in a business that owns one. A complete application (initial issuance form, U.S. Coast Guard documentation or state vessel registration, and payment of required fees) must be submitted via the National Permits System by 11:59 p.m. Pacific daylight time on March 31, 2026; NMFS may require additional documents and will decline incomplete applications. Applicants who applied in prior years and have not received a permit do not need to resubmit.
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