Northern Zone Mackerel Fishing Shut Down: Quota Catches Up Fast
Published Date: 8/24/2026
Rule
Summary
NMFS implements an accountability measure (AM) for the commercial harvest of the Atlantic migratory group of Spanish mackerel in the northern zone of the Atlantic exclusive economic zone (EEZ). NMFS projects that landings will soon reach the revised commercial quota for Spanish mackerel in the northern zone of the Atlantic EEZ for the 2026-2027 fishing year. In accordance with the regulations for the Atlantic migratory group of Spanish mackerel, NMFS closes the northern zone for commercial harvest to protect this fishery resource.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Northern Zone: Commercial Harvest Closed
If you fish commercially for Atlantic Spanish mackerel in the northern zone (New York through North Carolina), commercial harvest in that zone is closed from August 25, 2026, through February 28, 2027 because projected landings will reach the revised commercial quota of 912,670 lb (413,980 kg).
Sale Ban on Northern Zone Spanish Mackerel
You may not buy or sell Atlantic Spanish mackerel from the northern zone while the commercial closure is in effect (August 25, 2026 through February 28, 2027). The ban does not apply to fish from the northern zone that were harvested, landed ashore, and sold prior to the closure and that are held in cold storage by a dealer or processor.
250,000 lb Quota Transfer Changed Zone Limits
Florida requested and NMFS approved transfer of 250,000 lb (113,398 kg) of Atlantic Spanish mackerel commercial quota from the southern to the northern zone on July 20, 2026. For the 2026-2027 fishing year, the revised northern zone quota is 912,670 lb (413,980 kg) and the revised southern zone quota is 2,417,330 lb (1,096,482 kg).
Permit Holders May Keep Recreational Limits
If you are on a vessel with a valid Federal commercial permit for Atlantic Spanish mackerel, you may continue to retain Spanish mackerel from the northern zone during the commercial closure but only up to the recreational bag and possession limits in 50 CFR 622.382(a), and only if recreational harvest in the northern zone remains open.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-14204, Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary; Delay of Effective Date
NOAA is giving everyone more time before the rule that bans grappling or anchoring on Lake Ontario shipwrecks kicks in. Instead of starting in July 2026, this rule is now delayed until September 2028 to let NOAA set up mooring buoys and work with divers and boaters. This means boaters and commercial vessels can keep anchoring safely while NOAA gets everything ready without rushing.
2026-14195, Rescinding the Definition of “Harm” Under the Endangered Species Act
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are wiping away the official definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act starting September 14, 2026. This change affects anyone involved in protecting endangered plants and animals by shifting how “harm” is understood and enforced. It’s a big move that could change how projects and protections are handled, but no new costs or deadlines are added right now.
2026-07536, Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Geophysical Surveys in the Gulf of America
Starting April 20, 2026, NOAA is setting new rules for companies doing geophysical surveys in the Gulf of America to protect marine mammals. These rules let companies get permission to accidentally disturb marine mammals but require them to minimize harm and report what they find. This plan lasts five years and helps balance ocean research with saving sea life.
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.
2025-06746, Rescinding the Definition of “Harm” Under the Endangered Species Act
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service want to remove the current definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act because it includes habitat changes that don’t match the law’s true meaning. This change affects anyone involved in protecting endangered species and could shift how rules are enforced. You have until May 19, 2025, to share your thoughts, and this update aims to clarify the law without adding new costs.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-17217, Safety Zone; T/V DENISE FOSS (O.N. 1254223), Honolulu, HI
The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone around the T/V DENISE FOSS and its tow in Honolulu to keep people and boats safe while three big ship-to-shore cranes are being moved. This safety zone runs from August 19 to August 25, 2026, and no one can enter without special permission. If you’re boating nearby, expect some changes but no fees or costs are involved.
Next: 2026-17230, Removal From the Entity List
The U.S. Department of Commerce just removed one company from Turkey from the Entity List, meaning it’s no longer under tough export restrictions. This change starts August 21, 2026, making it easier and faster for businesses to trade with that company without extra licenses or delays. It’s a win for smoother global trade and shows trust in the company’s good behavior.