Alaska Pollock Fishing Halted Until Fall to Save the Stock
Published Date: 4/21/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting April 17, 2026, fishing for pollock in Statistical Area 610 of the Gulf of Alaska is temporarily closed to keep the catch within safe limits. This affects fishermen targeting pollock, who must stop directed fishing until September 1, 2026, helping protect the fish population and support other fisheries. The closure ensures the 2026 pollock catch limit isn’t exceeded, balancing fishing opportunities and conservation.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Pollock Closure Apr 17–Sep 1, 2026
Starting at 1200 hrs Alaska local time on April 17, 2026, directed fishing for pollock in Statistical Area 610 of the Gulf of Alaska is closed through 1200 hrs Alaska local time on September 1, 2026. NMFS established a directed fishing allowance of 3,959 metric tons out of the 2026 A season pollock TAC of 4,109 mt, and while the closure is in effect the maximum retainable amounts at Sec. 679.20(e) and (f) apply at any time during a trip.
150 mt Incidental Catch Set-Aside
Of the 4,109 mt 2026 A season pollock TAC for Statistical Area 610, NMFS set aside 150 metric tons as incidental catch to support other anticipated groundfish fisheries, leaving a 3,959 mt directed fishing allowance. That 150 mt is reserved specifically to allow other groundfish fisheries to take incidental pollock while directed pollock fishing is closed.
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