NOAA sets higher skate catch limits for 2026-2027, projects a drop in 2028

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has finalized rules setting the total allowable catch for skates off the New England and mid-Atlantic coasts. For fishing years 2026 and 2027, the limit increases to 41,282 metric tons from the current level of 32,155 metric tons. This represents a 28 percent increase in the acceptable biological catch used by managers to determine how much can be harvested sustainably.

Why it matters: This action primarily affects commercial fishermen and processors operating in the Northeast skate fishery. The increased limits allow vessels to land more product per trip, which reduces the cost per unit of effort by requiring fewer trips to reach quota. It also addresses market demand for skates used as bait in other fisheries, such as monkfish fishing, where skates are a common and inexpensive option.

Who it affects

• Commercial fishermen harvesting or using skates off New England and the mid-Atlantic coast

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This rule was issued by NOAA Fisheries, part of the Commerce Department; check the Federal Register for the full text before relying on specific regulatory language.

Agency: Commerce Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document