Caribbean Spiny Lobsters Get New Limits to Prevent Overfishing
Published Date: 10/16/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The government wants to update the rules for catching spiny lobsters around St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John to keep lobster numbers healthy and fishing fair. These changes set new catch limits based on the latest science to stop overfishing and help lobsters thrive. Fishermen and seafood businesses should get ready, and everyone can share their thoughts by November 16, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
St. Croix ACL Raised to 176,760 lb
The proposed rule would raise the annual catch limit (ACL) for spiny lobster in St. Croix from 137,254 lb (62,257 kg) to 176,760 lb (80,177 kg). This change applies to commercial fishing businesses and recreational fishermen in Federal waters off St. Croix (about 30 commercial fishers on average during 2020–2024) and is intended to reflect the SEDAR 91 stock assessment and help prevent overfishing.
St. Thomas & St. John ACL Slightly Reduced
The proposed rule would reduce the annual catch limit (ACL) for spiny lobster in St. Thomas and St. John from 133,207 lb (60,422 kg) to 132,964 lb (60,311 kg), a decrease of 243 lb (110 kg). This change applies to commercial fishing businesses and recreational fishermen in Federal waters off St. Thomas and St. John (about 37 commercial fishers on average during 2020–2024).
Management Reference Points Updated (MSY, OFL, ABC, etc.)
Framework Action 4 (SEDAR 91) revises multiple management reference points for both stocks, including MSY proxy, MFMT, MSST, OFL, and ABC. For example, for St. Croix the MSY proxy would increase from 127,742 lb to 168,852 lb and the OFL would increase from 163,823 lb to 210,977 lb; for St. Thomas and St. John the OFL would decrease from 158,993 lb to 150,768 lb and the ABC would decrease from 140,218 lb to 132,964 lb.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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