NOAAFinal Rule
Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources of the Gulf of America and Atlantic Region: 2025-2026 Commercial Closure for Spanish Mackerel in the Atlantic Southern Zone
AgricultureEnvironment
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Summary
This federal rule closes commercial fishing for Spanish mackerel in the Atlantic Ocean's southern zone during 2025-2026 to protect the fish population from overfishing. The closure prevents fishing companies from legally catching and selling Spanish mackerel in this region during this time period.
Key Points
- 1Commercial fishermen are banned from catching Spanish mackerel in the Atlantic southern zone for the 2025-2026 fishing season
- 2The closure is intended to allow the Spanish mackerel population to recover and maintain a healthy ecosystem
- 3Fishing companies and businesses that rely on Spanish mackerel will need to adjust their operations and target other fish species instead
- 4Recreational fishers may still be allowed to catch Spanish mackerel under separate rules, but commercial sales are prohibited
- 5This rule applies to federal waters off the Atlantic coast and is enforced by NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service
Impact Assessment
If you are a commercial fishing company or worker in the Atlantic Southern Zone, you cannot legally catch or sell Spanish mackerel during 2025-2026, eliminating this revenue stream for two years.
Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope
Regional
Compliance Cost
Significant
Who is Affected
Small BusinessesImporters/ExportersWorkers/LaborersConsumers
Key Dates
Published
February 4, 2026
Regulatory Connections
Amends CFR Sections
50 CFR Part 622
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (NOAA-NMFS-2015-0125)
NOAAAgriculture
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of America, and South Atlantic: 2025 Commercial Closure for Gag in the South Atlantic
NOAAAgriculture
2025 Commercial Longline Closure for Golden Tilefish in the South Atlantic
NOAAAgriculture
Fisheries of the South Atlantic: 2025 Commercial Closure of Red Snapper in the South Atlantic
NOAAAgriculture
Fisheries of the South Atlantic: Re-opening of Commercial Harvest for Blueline Tilefish in the South Atlantic
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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