NOAA Declares Marlin, Crabs Still Overfished: Recovery Needed
Published Date: 5/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Marine Fisheries Service has found that Atlantic white marlin, roundscale spearfish, Pribilof Island blue king crab, and Bering Sea snow crab populations are still overfished. This means these fish and crab stocks are too low and need protection to help them grow back. Fishermen and seafood industries should expect ongoing rules to keep these species safe, with updates based on the latest 2025 data.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Atlantic marlin and spearfish still overfished
The National Marine Fisheries Service determined that Atlantic white marlin and roundscale spearfish remain overfished based on a 2025 assessment using data through 2023. The agency says these stocks’ spawning stock biomass is less than the minimum stock size threshold (MSST) and that fishermen and seafood industries should expect ongoing rules and updates based on the 2025 data.
Pribilof blue king crab remains overfished
NMFS determined the Pribilof Island blue king crab stock continues to be overfished based on a 2025 assessment using data from 2024 that found mature male biomass is less than the minimum stock size threshold (MSST). The notice indicates fishermen and seafood industries should expect ongoing rules and updates based on the 2025 data.
Bering Sea snow crab now overfished
NMFS determined the Bering Sea snow crab stock is again overfished based on a 2025 assessment using data through 2025 that found mature male biomass is less than the minimum stock size threshold (MSST). The agency says it will continue to work with the North Pacific Fishery Management Council and that fishermen and seafood industries should expect ongoing rules and updates based on the 2025 data.
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