NOAA shifts unused Pacific cod quota to smaller boats in Alaska

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is moving unused Pacific cod fishing limits from large vessels to smaller ones in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands. Specifically, projected unused catch from jig gear and large hook-and-line boats (60 feet or longer) is being transferred to smaller hook-and-line or pot boats (under 60 feet).

Why it matters: This is a routine management adjustment. It prevents fish from being left in the ocean because specific boat categories failed to use their allocated share. It allows the total catch limit to be met by other eligible boats, which is standard practice to avoid wasting the annual quota.

Who it affects

• Small commercial fishing vessels (under 60 feet) using hook-and-line or pot gear in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands.

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This rule was issued by the Commerce Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and published in the Federal Register; readers should check the original document for specific dates and gear specifications before relying on it.

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