NOAA Reviews Atlantic Fishing Permit for New Traps
Published Date: 5/4/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is reviewing a special fishing permit request that would let some commercial fishing boats try new gear and use more traps than usual along the Atlantic coast. This change supports research by the Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation and could help improve fishing methods. People have until May 19, 2026, to share their thoughts, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Trap Limit Increase for EFP Vessels
The EFP would exempt participating vessels from trap limits at Sec. 697.19(a)–(d) to allow 3 additional traps per fishing vessel, for a total of up to 60 additional modified traps across the project. The project would include up to 20 vessels and up to 60 modified traps in total.
Allowed Modified Ventless Trap Gear
If approved, participating federally permitted fishing vessels may use modified ventless traps with closed escape vents and smaller trap mesh and entrance heads under the Exempted Fishing Permit during the project period (07/01/2026–05/31/2027). This exemption would waive the gear specification at 50 CFR 697.21(c) only for vessels taking part in the CFRF project.
Untagged Modified Traps Allowed with ID
The EFP would exempt participating vessels from trap tag requirements at Sec. 697.19(j) to allow the use of untagged modified traps, although each modified trap will have the participating fisherman's identification attached. This applies only to traps used under the EFP.
Authorized Onboard Sampling of Protected Lobsters and Crabs
The EFP would exempt participating vessels from possession restrictions at Sec. 697.20(a),(d),(g),(h)(1) and (h)(2) to allow onboard biological sampling of undersized, v-notched, and egg-bearing lobsters and undersized and egg-bearing Jonah crabs. Operators must return all specimens from modified gear to the ocean once sampling is complete.
EFP Research Scale, Dates, and Comment Deadline
The proposed project would run from July 1, 2026 to May 31, 2027 with up to 20 vessels (up to 7 inshore, up to 13 offshore), up to 52 trips per inshore vessel and up to 36 per offshore vessel (up to 832 total trips), up to 2,496 sets, and up to 3,328 total days. Public comments on the EFP must be received by May 19, 2026.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-05599 — Deep Seabed Mining: Notice of Receipt of Applications for Deep Seabed Mining Exploration Licenses and Announcement of Public Comment Period and Virtual Public Hearings
NOAA got two applications from companies wanting to explore mining deep under the ocean floor. They’re holding virtual public meetings in April and want your thoughts by May 22, 2026. This affects anyone interested in ocean mining and how we protect our seas while exploring new resources.
2026-04256 — Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Spatial Fisheries Management; Amendment 15 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan
Starting April 3, 2026, new rules change shark fishing zones and times in the Atlantic to better protect sharks and manage fishing risks. Fishermen using bottom and pelagic longline gear will see updated area boundaries and must pay for electronic monitoring if fishing in certain safer zones. These changes help keep shark populations healthy while supporting responsible fishing.
2026-13267 — Fisheries of the South Atlantic; 2026 South Atlantic Red Snapper Commercial Fishing Season
Starting July 13, 2026, commercial fishers in the South Atlantic can catch red snapper until January 1, 2027, or until the catch limit of about 103,000 pounds is hit. This rule helps fishers know exactly when they can fish and keeps the red snapper population healthy. If the limit is reached early, the season will close sooner to protect the fish.
2026-13195 — Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting
The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council is holding a webinar on July 22, 2026, to review and possibly update fishing limits for Atlantic chub mackerel and butterfish. Fishermen, seafood businesses, and ocean lovers should pay attention because these changes could affect how much fish can be caught from 2027 to 2029. This meeting helps keep fishing fair and sustainable while protecting the ocean’s future.
2026-13153 — Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Amendment 25 (Revised)
Starting June 30, 2026, new rules update how Atlantic cod stocks are managed in the Northeast multispecies fishery. These changes affect both commercial and recreational fishers by setting fresh limits and protections to stop overfishing and help cod populations bounce back. The goal? Keep fishing fun and sustainable while supporting a $40 million industry.
2026-13196 — Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting
The Mid-Atlantic and South Atlantic Fishery Councils are teaming up to figure out how to share the blueline tilefish catch limits north of Cape Hatteras. They’ll meet online in July 2026 to review data and suggest fair fishing quotas, which could affect fishermen and seafood businesses in both regions. This plan aims to keep fish populations healthy while balancing who gets to catch what.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-08612 — Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: Application for Annual Clothing Allowance
The VA is updating the Application for Annual Clothing Allowance form to make it clearer and easier to use for veterans who need extra help replacing clothes worn out by their service-connected disabilities. While the form looks different, it won’t take more time to fill out. More veterans are expected to apply, so the VA is asking for public feedback by June 3, 2026.
Next: 2026-08615 — Notice of Intent To Grant an Exclusive Patent License
The Air Force plans to give DarkPulse an exclusive license to use a cool new satellite power-sharing patent. If anyone objects, they have 15 days to speak up. This deal could boost satellite tech and energy efficiency, with no immediate cost changes announced.