New England Council to Discuss Atlantic Cod and Haddock Fishing Limits Virtually
Published Date: 1/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The New England Fishery Management Council is holding a 2-day virtual meeting on January 28-29, 2026, to discuss important updates and rules for local fisheries, including fishing limits for Atlantic cod and haddock. Fishermen, seafood businesses, and coastal communities will be affected by these decisions, which aim to keep fish populations healthy and fishing fair. You can join online, share your thoughts, and stay informed about changes that might impact your catch and wallet.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 4 mixed.
2026 Cod and Haddock Rules
The Council will consider recommendations for recreational measures for Fishing Year 2026 for Atlantic cod and haddock during its January 28-29, 2026 meeting. These decisions will affect fishermen, seafood businesses, and coastal communities and could change how recreational catch is regulated.
LAGC IFQ Program Report Action
On January 28, 2026, the Council will take action to approve the final report of the Limited Access General Category (LAGC) Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program Review. This action affects participants in the LAGC IFQ program, including limited-access commercial fishermen and related seafood businesses.
Essential Fish Habitat Revision
The Council will report on the Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) review and discuss initiating a framework action to revise EFH designations for several stocks during the January 28-29, 2026 meeting. Revising EFH designations could change where and how fishing is allowed.
Inflation Reduction Act Project Updates
The Council will receive updates on Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) initiatives, including status updates and anticipated timing for project milestones and activities, during the January 28-29, 2026 meeting. These updates inform fishermen and coastal communities about IRA-related project timelines.
Recreational Fishing Effort Survey Update
NOAA will present on the Marine Recreational Information Program Fishing Effort Survey study, including follow-up study, calibration efforts, and the peer review process at the January 28, 2026 meeting. Changes to how recreational fishing effort is measured could influence future management decisions affecting recreational fishers.
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Key Dates
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