This bulletin describes new measures for limited access vessels implemented through Framework Adjustment 40 to the Scallop Fishery Management Plan, and a summary of how they affect the 2026 fishing year. All measures will be effective on April 1, 2026.
This action allocates the total number of trips for common pool vessels into the Closed Area II Yellowtail Flounder/Haddock Special Access Program and closes the Regular B Days-at-Sea Program, for fishing year 2026, through April 30, 2027.
NOAA Fisheries approves conservation equivalency for the summer flounder and black sea bass recreational fisheries, and implements Framework 19 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan, and Framework 7 to the Bluefish Fishery Management Plan.
This final rule allocates Northeast multispecies ACE to approved groundfish sectors and permit banks for fishing year 2026 and provides notice of specifications for 11 stocks that are set by default.
The Northern Gulf of Maine (NGOM) Scallop Management Area is closed to all federally permitted Limited Access General Category (LAGC) vessels effective 0001 hr on April 13, 2026.
