Framework Adjustment 17 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan
Summary
This action proposes regulations to implement specifications and management measures in Framework Adjustment 17 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). This action would set monkfish specifications for fishing year 2026, project specifications for fishing years 2027 and 2028, streamline the Annual Catch Limit (ACL) Overage Accountability Measure (AM) trigger, and add default specifications for the monkfish fishery. This action is necessary to respond to updated scientific information and achieve the goals and objectives of the FMP. The proposed measures are intended to help prevent overfishing and ensure that management measures are based on the best scientific information available.
Monkfish Specifications
Proposed Framework 17 Specifications
| Catch Limits | Northern Area | Southern Area | ||
| Proposed 2026-2028 Specs (mt) | % Change from 2023-2025* | Proposed 2026-2028 Specs (mt) | % Change from 2023 -2025* | |
| ABC | 6,224 | 0 | 5,861 | 0 |
| ACL | 6,224 | 0 | 5,861 | 0 |
| Management Uncertainty (3%) | 187 | - | 176 | - |
| ACT (TAL + discards) | 6,038 | 0 | 5,685 | 0 |
| Expected Discards | 863 | 18.4 | 2,198.5 | -0.3 |
| TAL | 5,309 | -3 | 3,487 | 0.2 |
*Percent change from the previously approved 2023-2025 specifications