Proposed Rule: Pelagic and Demersal Indicator Species Regulations for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species

NOAA Fisheries requests comments on a proposed rule to consider changes to regulations regarding pelagic and demersal indicator species in the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species pelagic and bottom longline fisheries.

What it will do

• Remove the current pelagic and demersal indicator species regulations applicable to Atlantic Highly Migratory Species pelagic and bottom longline vessels
• Remove the pelagic and demersal indicator species lists
• Note, this action is not related to ecosystem or environmental indicators

Who is affected

• Pelagic and bottom longline fishermen who hold Atlantic Highly Migratory Species fishing permits in the Atlantic, Gulf of America, and Caribbean regions

Public Hearing Webinar Schedule

During the public comment period, NOAA Fisheries will hold one public hearing webinar for the proposed action. Registration information will be provided soon. In addition, any requests for in-person public hearings during the comment period should be directed to Larry Redd, Jr., at larry.redd@noaa.gov or (301) 427-8503.

• May 21, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET.

Comments

NOAA Fisheries will accept public comments from April 17, 2026 to May 29, 2026. Written comments may be submitted at regulations.gov, under docket NOAA-NMFS-2025-0669. All comments received are a part of the public record.