Fishermen Rejoice: Government Cuts Red Tape on Ocean Catches
Published Date: 4/17/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The government wants to make fishing rules easier for Atlantic pelagic and bottom longline fishermen by removing some old regulations about certain fish species. This change aims to give fishermen more freedom to catch fish while still protecting the ocean. If you fish in these waters, get ready for new rules starting soon, and don’t forget to share your thoughts by May 29, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Remove 5% Indicator-Species Rule
NMFS proposes to remove the 5-percent (by weight) limits in 50 CFR 635.21(c)(1)(i) and 635.21(d)(2) and to remove Tables 2 and 3 of Appendix A to 50 CFR part 635 (the pelagic and demersal indicator species lists). This change would apply to vessels operating in pelagic and bottom longline gear restricted areas and is intended to increase fishing flexibility for Atlantic HMS longline permit holders.
More Gear Flexibility; Revenue Opportunity
With the 5-percent limits and species lists removed, HMS pelagic and bottom longline fishermen who also hold permits for Council-managed species could more readily use gear authorized under Council rules (for example, bandit gear) and land non-HMS such as grouper, snapper, and tilefish without being constrained by the 5-percent threshold. NMFS states this may allow additional opportunities to harvest available quotas and could generate some additional revenue on HMS trips, but notes HMS fishermen still cannot retain bluefin tuna with a gear type not authorized for bluefin retention under an Atlantic Tunas Longline category permit.
Who Is Affected and Small-Entity Status
The proposed rule would apply to holders of Atlantic HMS permits, including 164 Swordfish Directed, 63 Swordfish Incidental, 188 Shark Directed, 221 Shark Incidental, and 223 Atlantic Tunas Longline category limited access permits. NMFS considers all commercial HMS permit holders affected by this rule to be small entities under its $11 million annual gross receipts size standard.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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