Pacific Fishery Council Calls Public Meetings on Ocean Rules
Published Date: 3/6/2026
Notice
Summary
The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding public meetings from March 11-14, 2026, to talk about fishing rules and ocean health in places like Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam, and the Mariana Islands. These meetings let local fishers and communities share ideas and help shape smart fishing plans that protect the ocean and support the fishing industry. You can join in person or online, so everyone has a chance to be heard without spending extra money on travel.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Discussions on Marine Monument fishing rules
Meeting agendas include recommendations on commercial fishing in the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument and options for removing federal fishing prohibitions in Rose Atoll, the Marianas Trench, and Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monuments. These meetings (March 11–14, 2026) give commercial fishers and stakeholders a chance to discuss and recommend changes to fishing rules in those monuments.
Kona Crab catch limits on the agenda
The Hawaii Archipelago and PRIA Advisory Panel agenda includes the 2027–2030 Annual Catch Limit specification for the Main Hawaiian Islands Kona Crab fishery. This item is scheduled for discussion during the Council meetings on March 11–14, 2026.
Electronic and vessel monitoring updates
The FIAC agenda includes an update on electronic monitoring implementation and vessel monitoring plans during the March 12, 2026 meeting. Fishers and vessel operators can hear updates and provide feedback on monitoring and vessel tracking plans.
Hybrid meetings with public comment
The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding public meetings March 11–14, 2026, in a hybrid format (in-person and Webex). You can join remotely and there will be public comment periods, so local fishers and community members can participate without traveling.
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