NOAA Hands Anglers Extra Bluefin Tuna Catch Limit
Published Date: 10/15/2026
Rule
Summary
NOAA is shifting 15 metric tons of Atlantic bluefin tuna quota from the Reserve to the Angling category, boosting the catch limit for recreational fishers this fall. This change helps anglers and charter boats catch more bluefin tuna from October 13 through December 31, 2026, without affecting overall limits. It’s a win for fishing fans eager to reel in more big bluefin before the year ends!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Charter/headboat operators gain additional quota
Charter and headboat permit holders (HMS Charter/Headboat) benefit from the 15 mt transfer that raises the Angling large school/small medium subquota to 188.4 mt, providing additional harvest opportunities from October 13, 2026 through December 31, 2026. The Reserve category quota is reduced to 27 mt as a result of this transfer.
More recreational bluefin quota this fall
NOAA moved 15 metric tons (mt) of Atlantic bluefin tuna quota from the Reserve to the Angling category, raising the Angling large school/small medium subquota from 173.4 mt to 188.4 mt and increasing the overall Angling category quota to 356.3 mt. This adjustment applies to HMS Angling and HMS Charter/Headboat permitted vessels fishing recreationally and is effective October 13, 2026 through December 31, 2026.
Possible later limits or closures this year
NMFS may take additional inseason actions later in 2026 to increase or decrease daily retention limits or to close the Angling category fishery if landings differ from projections. Any subsequent adjustments would be published in the Federal Register.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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