NOAA Fisheries Seeks Comments on Proposed 2025-2026 Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Specifications

NOAA Fisheries is seeking comments on proposed 2025-2026 specifications for the Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan. 

This action would:

• Implement new 2025 and projected 2026 butterfish specifications.
• Reaffirm previously projected 2025 specifications for chub mackerel, Illex squid, longfin squid, and Atlantic mackerel.
• Reduce the minimum square mesh size for directed butterfish trawl trips from 3 inches to greater than 2 5/8 inches.
• Potentially account for a 2024 Atlantic mackerel annual catch limit overage (if necessary).
• Make corrections to existing regulations.

Read the proposed rule as published in the Federal Register today. The comment period is open through June 12, 2025. For more information, please see the Proposed Rule summary on the NOAA Fisheries website.

Questions?

Fishermen: Maria Fenton, Regional Office, 978-281-9196

Media: Contact NOAA Fisheries Public Affairs or GARFO Public Affairs