Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by Vessels Using Pot Gear in the Western Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska
Published Date: 2/3/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting February 1, 2026, fishing for Pacific cod using pot gear in the Western Gulf of Alaska is temporarily closed to keep the catch within safe limits. This affects fishermen using pot gear who must stop targeting Pacific cod until September 1, 2026, helping protect the fish population and future fishing opportunities. No extra catch is allowed, so everyone needs to follow the new rules to avoid penalties.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary closure for pot-gear cod fishing
Starting 1200 hours Alaska local time on February 1, 2026, directed fishing for Pacific cod by vessels using pot gear in the Western Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska is closed through 1200 hours Alaska local time on September 1, 2026. If you operate or work on a pot-gear vessel in that area, you must stop targeting Pacific cod during that period.
A-season TAC set and incidental catch zeroed
The A season allowance of the 2026 Pacific cod total allowable catch (TAC) apportioned to vessels using pot gear in the Western Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska is 1,027 metric tons (mt). NMFS established a directed fishing allowance of 1,027 mt and set aside 0 mt for incidental catch; while the closure is effective, maximum retainable amounts at Sec. 679.20(e) and (f) apply at any time during a trip.
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Key Dates
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