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Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office Results

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Northeast Skate Complex Management Plan

New England

About

The Northeast skate complex fishery in the Greater Atlantic Region includes seven skate species and operates from Maine to Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, and from inshore to offshore waters on the edge of the continental shelf. Skate is mostly harvested incidentally in trawl and gillnet fisheries targeting groundfish, monkfish, and sometimes scallops. 

The Northeast skate complex fishery consists of seven species: Winter skate, barndoor skate, thorny skate, smooth skate, little skate, clearnose skate, and rosette skat).  

The primary target species in the skate fishery are winter and little skates.  Winter skates are harvested for their wings for human consumption, and little skates are harvested as bait for lobster fisheries. Thorny skate and barndoor skate are currently prohibited species.

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subpart O. Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

SAFE Reports

Stock Assessment and Fishery Evaluation (SAFE) reports are documents or sets of documents that summarize the best scientific information available for federally managed fish stocks. This includes information concerning the biological condition of stocks and marine ecosystems, essential fish habitat (EFH), and the socioeconomic condition of commercial and recreational fisheries. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requires that SAFE reports be made available on a publicly accessible website to facilitate use of the information. Mackerel, squid, and butterfish SAFE report documents are available on the New England Fishery Management Council's website.

Species Managed

  • Little Skate
  • Thorny Skate
  • Barndoor Skate
  • Rosette Skate
  • Smooth Skate
  • Clearnose Skate

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions

Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern

NOAA is requesting comment on Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
09/26/2023

Northeast Skate Complex: Framework Adjustment 6 Revisions to 2018-2019 Specifications

This rule proposes to approve and implement measures submitted by the New England Fishery Management Council in Framework Adjustment 6 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan and revise the 2018-2019 specifications. This action would reduce
Proposed Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Published
11/27/2018

2022-2023 Northeast Skate Fishery Specifications

Final Rule for 2022-2023 Specifications for the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery, as recommended by the New England Fishery Management Council.
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
05/01/2022

Final Rule to Implement Framework Adjustment 8 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan

Northeast Skate Framework Adjustment 8 Proposed Rule
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
05/01/2020

Northeast Skate Complex; Framework Adjustment 6; Revised 2018-2019 Specifications

NOAA Fisheries approves and implements measures submitted by the New England Fishery Management Council in Framework Adjustment 6 to the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan and revises the 2018-2019 skate fishery specifications.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
02/15/2019

Final Action to Close Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to Gillnet Gear

NOAA Fisheries closes Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to gillnet gear.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/17/2018

Northeast Skate Complex; Framework Adjustment 5 and 2018-2019 Specifications

NOAA approves regulations to implement Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan Framework Adjustment 5 management measures and 2018-2019 specifications for the skate fishery. The action is necessary to establish skate specifications to be consisten
Final Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
09/28/2018

Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2

This action implements approved regulations for the New England Fishery Management Council's Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2. This rule revises essential fish habitat and habitat area of particular concern designations, revises or creates habit
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/09/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Skate Complex; Inseason Adjustment to the Skate Wing Possession Limit

We announce the adjustment of the commercial per-trip possession limit in the skate wing fishery for the remainder of the 2017 fishing year, through April 30, 2018, based on a revised landings projection. This possession limit adjustment is necessary t
Temporary Rule
Effective
04/09/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Skate Complex; Framework Adjustment 4

The final rule approves regulations to implement the Northeast Skate Complex Fishery Management Plan Framework Adjustment 4 management measures. This rule implements several measures to reduce the risk of the skate bait fishery from effectively closing do
Final Rule
Published
02/13/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 10/30/2023

Northeast Multispecies Management Plan

New England

About

The Northeast multispecies fishery is managed by the New England Fishery Management Council using a variety of management tools, including days-at-sea, special management programs, and sectors. The fishery involves numerous species of groundfish found throughout the Greater Atlantic region. The fishery is executed using primarily trawl, gillnet, and hook gear. 

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR Part 648 Subpart F. Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

Species Managed

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions

Northeast Multispecies Common Pool Fishery and Other Measures for Fishing Year 2024

This action implements measures for the Northeast multispecies fishery for fishing year 2024, including common pool fishery possession and trip limits.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2024

Framework Adjustment 66 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan

We are proposing Framework Adjustment 66 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP). The action would set specifications for 8 stocks and modify some accountability measure triggers.
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
03/22/2024

Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern

NOAA is requesting comment on Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
09/26/2023

Approved Electronic Monitoring Providers for Groundfish Sectors

NOAA Fisheries is announcing additional approved electronic monitoring providers for fishing year 2022.
Notice
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
01/20/2022

Receipt of Petition for Rulemaking for Atlantic Cod

Receipt of Petition for Rulemaking for Atlantic Cod
Notice
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
08/18/2021

Approved At-Sea Monitoring and Electronic Monitoring Providers for Groundfish Sectors

Approved At-Sea Monitoring and Electronic Monitoring Providers for Groundfish Sectors
Notice
,
New England
Published
02/04/2021

Northeast Multispecies Fishery Approved Monitoring Service Providers

NOAA Fisheries has approved four companies to provide Northeast multispecies sector at-sea monitoring services in fishing years 2019 and 2020. Regulations implementing the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan require at-sea monitoring companies
Notice
,
New England
Published
02/01/2019

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; 2018-2020 Small-Mesh Multispecies Specifications

We propose small-mesh multispecies specifications for fishing years 2018-2020 and corrects a regulatory error from a previous rulemaking action. The specifications are intended to establish allowable catch limits for each stock within the fishery
Proposed Rule
Effective
04/27/2018

Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan: Control Date for Northeast Multispecies Charter/Party Fishery

This notice announces a new control date that may be used to determine future participation in the Northeast multispecies charter/party fishery. This notice is necessary to inform interested parties that the New England Fishery Management Council is consi
Notice
Effective
04/18/2018

Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery;

This action proposes approval of, and regulations to implement, Framework Adjustment 57 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan. This rule would set 2018-2020 catch limits for 20 multispecies (groundfish) stocks.
Proposed Rule
Effective
04/06/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Fishing Year 2018 Recreational Management Measures

We propose to set 2018 recreational management measures for Gulf of Maine cod and haddock and Georges Bank cod. This action is necessary to respond to updated catch and other scientific information.
Proposed Rule
Effective
04/06/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Adjustment of Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic Yellowtail Flounder Catch

This action transfers unused quota of Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic yellowtail flounder from the Atlantic sea scallop fishery to the Northeast multispecies fishery for the remainder of the 2017 fishing year. This transfer implements an inseason adjust
Notice
Effective
03/21/2018

Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Groundfish Fishery;

This rule extends the emergency action to remove the 2017 southern windowpane flounder accountability measures (AM) for non-groundfish trawl vessels. The rule is necessary because the emergency measures would otherwise expire before the end of the 2017 fi
Notice
Effective
03/01/2018

FY 2023: Gulf of Maine Cod Trimester 3 TAC Area Closure and Trip Limit Adjustment

This action prohibits possession of GOM cod by common pool vessels through the end of the fishing year and closes the GOM Cod Trimester TAC Area to common pool vessels fishing with trawl, sink gillnet, and longline/hook gear for Trimester 3 of FY 2023.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
12/15/2023

FY 2023 - White Hake Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area Closure for the Common Pool Fishery

This action closes the White Hake Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area to Northeast multispecies common pool vessels fishing with trawl gear, sink gillnet gear, and longline/hook gear, except Handgear A and Handgear B vessels, through December 31, 2023.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
11/13/2023

Gulf of Maine Cod Possession and Trip Limit Adjustment for the Common Pool Fishery

This action decreases the possession and trip limits for Gulf of Maine (GOM) cod for Northeast multispecies common pool vessels for the remainder of the 2023 fishing year, through April 30, 2024.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/12/2023

Framework Adjustment 65 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan & Emergency Measures for Gulf of Maine Haddock

NOAA Fisheries approved Framework Adjustment 65 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan and is announcing final quotas for fishing year 2023. This action also approves and implements emergency measures for Gulf of Maine (GOM) haddock.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
08/18/2023

Fishing Year 2023 Recreational Management Measures for Cod and Haddock

Final Fishing Year 2023 Recreational Management Measures for Gulf of Maine Cod, Gulf of Maine Haddock, and Georges Bank Cod
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
08/14/2023

Gulf of Maine Cod Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area Closure for the Common Pool Fishery

This action closes the Gulf of Maine Cod Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area to Northeast multispecies common pool vessels fishing with trawl gear, sink gillnet gear, and longline/hook gear, through August 31, 2023.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
07/27/2023

Northeast Multispecies Common Pool Fishery and Other Measures for Fishing Year 2023

This action implements measures for the Northeast multispecies fishery for the 2021 fishing year, including common pool fishery possession and trip limits.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2023

Approval of 2023 and 2024 Sector Operations Plans and Allocation of 2023 Northeast Multispecies Annual Catch Entitlements

Approval of 2023 and 2024 Sector Operations Plans and Allocation of 2023 Northeast Multispecies Annual Catch Entitlements
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2023

White Hake Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area Closure for the Common Pool Fishery

This action closes the White Hake Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area to common pool vessels on a groundfish trip fishing with trawl gear, sink gillnet gear, and longline/hook gear, except for Handgear A and B permitted vessels.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/18/2023

Northeast Multispecies Fishery: Amendment 23

NOAA Fisheries has approved and implemented measures in Amendment 23 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan, which the New England Fishery Management Council adopted. 
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
12/09/2022

Changes to Cod and Haddock Recreational Regulations in the Gulf of Maine for Fishing Year 2022

NOAA Fisheries Makes Changes to Cod and Haddock Recreational Regulations in the Gulf of Maine for Fishing Year 2022
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
08/30/2022

Framework Adjustment 63 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan

We approved Framework Adjustment 63 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan and are announcing final quotas for fishing year 2022, effective July 15, 2022. This action also approves and implements recreational measures for Georges Bank cod.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
07/15/2022

Northeast Multispecies Common Pool Fishery and Other Measures for Fishing Year 2022

This action implements measures for the Northeast Multispecies Common Pool Fishery for Fishing Year 2022, including possession and trip limits, zero trips to the Closed Area II Yellowtail Flounder/Haddock SAP, and closure of the Regular B DAS program.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2022

Annual Catch Entitlements to Sectors for Fishing Year 2022

NOAA Fisheries Allocates Annual Catch Entitlements to Sectors for Fishing Year 2022
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
05/01/2022

Fishing Year 2021 Possession and Trip Limit Increases for the Common Pool Groundfish Fishery

This action increases the possession and trip limits of Gulf of Maine cod, Cape Cod/Gulf of Maine yellowtail flounder, and witch flounder for Northeast multispecies common pool vessels for the remainder of the 2021 fishing year.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
02/24/2022

2021-2023 Small-Mesh Multispecies Specifications

2021-2023 Specifications for the Small-Mesh Multispecies (Whiting) Fishery, as recommended by the New England Fishery Management Council.
Final Rule
,
New England
Published
02/01/2022

Rebuilding Plan for the Southern Red Hake Fishery

NOAA Fisheries approves and implements a rebuilding plan for the southern red hake stock as proposed by the New England Fishery Management Council in Framework Adjustment 62 to the Small-Mesh Multispecies Fishery Management Plan.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/25/2022

Framework Adjustment 61 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan

Framework Adjustment 61 to the Northeast Multispecies (Groundfish) Fishery Management Plan (FMP)
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
07/27/2021

Approval of 2021 and 2022 Sector Operations Plans and Allocation of 2021 Northeast Multispecies Annual Catch Entitlements

Final Rule: Approval of 2021 and 2022 Sector Operations Plans and Allocation of 2021 Northeast Multispecies Annual Catch Entitlements
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
05/01/2021

Northeast Multispecies Common Pool Fishery and Other Measures for Fishing Year 2021

This action implements measures for the Northeast multispecies fishery for the 2021 fishing year, including common pool fishery possession and trip limits.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2021

Revisions to Framework Adjustment 59 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan and Sector Annual Catch Entitlements; Correction

This final rule distributes sector allocation carried over from fishing year 2019 into fishing year 2020 and corrects minor errors published in the final rule approving and implementing Framework Adjustment 59
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/25/2021

Fishing Year 2020 Possession and Trip Limit Increases for the Northeast Multispecies (New England Groundfish) Common Pool Fishery

Regulatory action increases possession and trip limits for certain Northeast multispecies (groundfish) common pool vessels for the remainder of the 2020 fishing year, through April 30, 2021.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/11/2021

Increase in Sector Carryover of 2019 Annual Catch Entitlements and Carryover of Unused Leased-in Days-at-Sea by Common Pool Vessels

This temporary rule implements emergency measures under the authority of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to revise portions of the fishing year 2019 carryover provisions in the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/31/2020

Interim Final Rule; Fishing Year 2020 Recreational Management Measures for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery

This rule sets fishing year 2020 recreational management measures for Gulf of Maine cod and haddock. The measures are intended to ensure the recreational fishery achieves, but does not exceed, fishing year 2020 catch limits.
Interim Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
08/13/2020

Framework Adjustment 59 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan

Framework Adjustment 59 to the Northeast Multispecies (Groundfish) Fishery Management Plan (FMP)
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
07/28/2020

Removal of Regulations Implementing the Closed Area I Hook Gear Haddock Special Access Program

This action removes regulations that implement the Closed Area I Hook Gear Haddock Special Access Program. Eliminating the Closed Area I Hook Gear Haddock Special Access Program reduces confusion and inconsistency with other regulations.
Final Rule
,
New England
Published
07/22/2020

2019 and 2020 Sector Operations Plans and 2019/2020 Allocation of Northeast Multispecies Annual Catch Entitlements

This rule approves Northeast multispecies sector operations plans and grants regulatory exemptions for fishing years 2019 and 2020, approves the formation of a new sector, and allocates annual catch entitlements to approved sectors for fishing year 2020.
Interim Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2020

Northeast Multispecies Measures for Fishing Year 2020

This action implements measures for the Northeast multispecies fishery for the 2020 fishing year. These include FY 2020 common pool possession and trip limits and measures enacted via Regional Administrator authority.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2020

Approval of New Gear Under Small-Mesh Fisheries Accountability Measures for Northeast Multispecies Fishery

NOAA Fisheries approves new selective trawl gear for use in several non-groundfish fisheries when subject to the Georges Bank yellowtail flounder accountability measure.
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
04/06/2020

Possession and Trip Limit Increases for the Northeast Multispecies (New England Groundfish) Common Pool Fishery

Regulatory action increases possession and trip limits for certain Northeast multispecies (groundfish) common pool vessels for the remainder of the 2019 fishing year, through April 30, 2020.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
03/23/2020

Expansion of the Scallop Dredge Exemption Areas Under the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries proposes to implement modifications to the regulations implementing the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan to allow vessels issued a limited access general category individual fishing quota sea scallop permit to fish
Final Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
02/14/2020

2019 Southern Red Hake Possession Limit Reduction

The possession limit for southern red hake has been reduced from 5,000 lb to the incidental limit of 400 lb.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
02/03/2020

Closure of the Regular B Days-at-Sea Program for the Remainder of Fishing Year 2019

This action closes the Regular B Days-at-Sea Program and prohibits the use of Regular B Days-at-Sea for all Northeast multispecies vessels for the remainder of fishing year 2019, through April 30, 2020.  
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/16/2019

2019 Northern Red Hake Possession Limit Reduction

This action reduces the commercial per-trip possession limit for northern red hake for the remainder of the 2019 fishing year. Regulations governing the small-mesh multispecies fishery require this action because the northern red hake fishery is projected
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
09/09/2019

Framework Adjustment 58 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan

This action proposes to approve and implement Framework Adjustment 58 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan. This rule would set 2019–2020 catch limits for 7 of the 20 multispecies (groundfish) stocks, implement new or revised rebuilding
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
07/18/2019

Northeast Multispecies Fishery: Fishing Year 2019 Recreational Management Measures

The 2019 Gulf of Maine cod and haddock recreational management measures have changed. We are opening a 2-week season (September 15-30) for Gulf of Maine cod, the possession limit will be 1 fish per person, and the minimum size will be 21 inches.
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
07/05/2019

Correction: Common Pool Gulf of Maine Winter Flounder Trip Limit

We are correcting a temporary rule that implemented measures for Northeast multispecies common pool vessels for the 2019 fishing year. These measures included possession and trip limits and the allocation of zero trips into the Closed Area II Yellowtail F
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/10/2019

Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Common Pool Measures for Fishing Year 2019

This action implements measures for Northeast multispecies common pool vessels for the 2019 fishing year. This action is necessary to ensure that the Northeast multispecies common pool fishery may achieve the optimum yield (OY) for the relevant stocks, wh
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/01/2019

Northeast Multispecies Fishery: Witch Flounder Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area Closure for the Common Pool Fishery

This action closes the Witch Flounder Trimester Total Allowable Catch Area to Northeast multispecies common pool vessels fishing with trawl gear through April 30, 2019. The closure is required because the common pool fishery is projected to have caught ov
Temporary Rule
Effective
04/12/2019

Adjustment of Georges Bank and Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic Yellowtail Flounder Annual Catch Limits

This action transfers unused quota of Georges Bank and Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic yellowtail flounder from the Atlantic scallop fishery to the Northeast multispecies fishery for the remainder of the 2018 fishing year. This quota transfer is authori
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/21/2019

Gulf of Maine Cod and Witch Flounder Trip Limit Increases for the Common Pool Fishery

This action increases the possession and trip limits of Gulf of Maine cod and witch flounder for Northeast multispecies common pool vessels for the remainder of the 2019 fishing year, in order to provide the common pool fishery greater opportunity to harv
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
03/13/2019

Small-Mesh Multispecies Fishery: Inseason Adjustment to the Northern Red Hake Possession Limit

This action reduces that the commercial per-trip possession limit for northern red hake for the remainder of the 2018 fishing year. Regulations governing the small-mesh multispecies fishery require this action because the northern red hake fishery is proj
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
02/27/2019

Updated Groundfish Annual Catch Limits for Sectors and the Common Pool for Fishing Year 2018

Under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), this final rule adjusts the 2018 fishing year allocations to sectors and the common pool specified in Framework Adjustment 57 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan;
Final Rule
,
New England
Published
02/05/2019

Small-Mesh Multispecies Fishery: Inseason Adjustment to the Southern Red Hake Possession Limit

NOAA Fisheries announces that the commercial per-trip possession limit for southern red hake has been reduced for the remainder of the 2018 fishing year. Regulations governing the small-mesh multispecies fishery require this action to prevent the southern
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
12/26/2018

Final Action to Close Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to Gillnet Gear

NOAA Fisheries closes Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to gillnet gear.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/17/2018

Georges Bank Cod Trip Limit Adjustment for the Common Pool Fishery

This action adjusts the possession and trip limits of Georges Bank cod for Northeast multispecies common pool vessels for the remainder of the 2018 fishing year, in order to ensure that the common pool fishery is able to harvest, but not exceed, its annua
Temporary Rule
Effective
11/29/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States: 2018-2020 Small-Mesh Multispecies Specifications

NOAA Fisheries issues final 2018 and projected 2019-2020 specifications for the small-mesh multispecies fishery, and corrects an error from a previous action. The specifications are necessary to establish allowable catch limits for each stock within the f
Final Rule
Effective
06/14/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Fishing Year 2018 Recreational Management Measures

This action adjusts recreational management measures for Georges Bank cod and maintains status quo measures for Gulf of Maine cod and haddock for the 2018 fishing year. This action is necessary to respond to updated scientific information and to achieve t
Final Rule
Effective
05/01/2018

Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2

This action implements approved regulations for the New England Fishery Management Council's Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2. This rule revises essential fish habitat and habitat area of particular concern designations, revises or creates habit
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/09/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 01/03/2023

Deep-Sea Red Crab Management Plan

New England

About

The Atlantic deep-sea red crab fishery in the United States operates along the edge of the continental shelf off southern New England and the Mid-Atlantic Bight. Deep-sea red crab inhabit mud, sand, and hard bottom at depths from 200 to 1800+ meters, at water temperatures between 5-8° C. The small, directed red crab fishery uses traps and targets male red crabs at a depth of approximately 400-600 meters. 

The market for deep-sea red crab is for human consumption and is sold either as fresh picked meat or as frozen legs. The red crab fishery was certified by the Marine Stewardship Council as sustainable in the fall of 2009.

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subpart M. Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

Species Managed

  • Red Crab

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions
There are no under development actions associated with this management plan.

Final Rule for 2022 Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Quota

2022 atlantic deep-sea red crab quota
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/01/2022

Final Rule to Implement 2021 Red Crab Quotas

2021 Red crab quotas
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
04/26/2021

Final Rule for Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab 2020 Specifications

Red Crab Specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Published
04/14/2020

2019 Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Specifications

We are finalizing specifications for the 2019 Atlantic deep-sea red crab fishery, including an annual catch limit and total allowable landings limit. This action is necessary to fully implement previously projected allowable red crab harvest levels that w
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
03/01/2019

Final Action to Close Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to Gillnet Gear

NOAA Fisheries closes Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to gillnet gear.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/17/2018

Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2

This action implements approved regulations for the New England Fishery Management Council's Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2. This rule revises essential fish habitat and habitat area of particular concern designations, revises or creates habit
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/09/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Fishery; 2018 Atlantic Deep-Sea Red Crab Specifications

We are implementing specifications for the 2018 Atlantic deep-sea red crab fishery, including an annual catch limit and total allowable landings limit. This action is necessary to implement allowable red crab harvest levels that will prevent overfishing a
Final Rule
Published
02/02/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 01/03/2023

Atlantic Sea Scallop Management Plan

New England

About

The Atlantic sea scallop is one of the most valuable fisheries in the United States. The primary range for the Atlantic sea scallop fishery is along the Atlantic coast from the Mid-Atlantic to the United States/Canada border. The scallop fishery uses predominantly paired or single scallop dredges throughout the entire range of the fishery. To a lesser extent, and mainly in the Mid-Atlantic region, the scallop fishery uses trawl gear. Most vessels land Atlantic sea scallops as shucked meats (the adductor muscle) but some vessels also land whole (in-shell) scallops.

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR Part 648 Subpart D.

Get more information on New England/Mid-Atlantic fisheries.

Species Managed

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions

Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern

NOAA is requesting comment on Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
09/26/2023

Proposed Rule; Request for Comments; Northern Gulf of Maine Measures in Framework Adjustment 29 to Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

We propose some of the measures included in Framework Adjustment 29 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan that establish scallop specifications and other measures for the Northern Gulf of Maine scallop management area
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/07/2018

2024 Closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Fishery

This temporary rule closes the Northern Gulf of Maine scallop fishery 00:01 on April 20, 2024 until March 31, 2025.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/20/2024

Framework Adjustment 38 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

Framework 38 establishes scallop specifications and other measures for fishing years 2024 and 2025, including changes to the catch, effort, and quota allocations and adjustments to the rotational area management program.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
03/22/2024

Framework Adjustment 36 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

Framework 36 would set scallop fishery specifications and other management measures for fishing years 2023 and 2024. Framework 36 would implement measures to protect small scallops and revise regulatory text.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/01/2023

Closure of the 2022 Closed Area I Scallop Access Area for the Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota Fleet

The Closed Area I Scallop Access Area is closed to Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota scallop vessels effective 0001 hours, on January 14, 2023, and will remain closed for the remainder of the fishing year.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/14/2023

2022 Closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Management Area for Limited Access General Category Vessels

2022 Closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Management Area for Limited Access General Category Vessels
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/26/2022

Amendment 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries approves and implements through regulations measures included in Amendment 21 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/01/2022

Framework Adjustment 34 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

Framework 34 set scallop fishery specifications for fishing year 2022, including days-at-sea, individual fishing quota, sea scallop access area trips, and Northern Gulf of Maine allocations.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
03/30/2022

2021 Closure of the Closed Area I Scallop Access Area for the Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota Fleet

The Closed Area I Scallop Access Area is closed to Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota scallop vessels effective 0001 hours, on September 17, 2021, and will remain closed for the remainder of the fishing year.
Temporary Rule
Effective
09/17/2021

Framework Adjustment 33 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

Framework 33 sets management measures for the scallop fishery for 2021, including the annual catch limits for the limited access and limited access general category fleets, as well as days-at-sea allocations and sea scallop access area trip allocations.
Interim Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Issued
05/19/2021

Closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Management Area for Limited Access General Category Vessels

NOAA Fisheries announces the closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Management Area for the remainder of the 2021 fishing year for Limited Access General Category vessels.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/06/2021

2020 Closure of the Closed Area I Access Area to the Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota Fishery

The Closed Area I Access Area is closed to all Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota scallop vessels effective 0001 hours on September 13, 2020, and will remain closed for the remainder of the fishing year.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
09/13/2020

2020 Closure of the Mid-Atlantic Access Area to the Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota Fishery

The Mid-Atlantic Access Area is closed to all Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota scallop vessels effective 0001 hours on July 19, 2020, and will remain closed for the remainder of the fishing year.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
07/19/2020

Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery; Emergency Action to Extend Portions of the Fishing Year 2019 Scallop Carryover Provisions

NOAA Fisheries approves and implements and emergency rule to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan that extends portions of the fishing y ear 2019 carryover provisions.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
06/01/2020

2020 Closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Management Area to the Limited Access General Category Fishery

The Northern Gulf of Maine Management Area is closed to all Limited Access General Category scallop vessels effective 0001 hours on May 23, 2020, and will remain closed for the remainder of the fishing year.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
05/23/2020

Framework Adjustment 32 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

Approves and implements Framework Adjustment 32 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan that establishes scallop specifications and other measures for fishing years 2020 and 2021.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/01/2020

Closure of the Mid-Atlantic Scallop Access Area to General Category Individual Fishing Quota Scallop Vessels

NOAA Fisheries announces that the Mid-Atlantic Scallop Access Area is closed to Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota scallop vessels for the remainder of the 2019 fishing year. No vessel issued a Limited Access General Category Individ
Temporary Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/02/2019

Closure of the Closed Area I Scallop Access Area to General Category Individual Fishing Quota Scallop Vessels

The Closed Area I Scallop Access Area is closed to Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota scallop vessels effective 0001 hours on June 23, 2019, and will remain closed to Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
06/23/2019

Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery; 2019 Closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Management Area to the Limited Access General Category Fishery

NOAA Fisheries announces the closure of the Northern Gulf of Maine Scallop Management Area for the remainder of the 2019 fishing year for Limited Access General Category vessels.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/25/2019

Framework Adjustment 30 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries approves and implements the measures of Framework Adjustment 30 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan that establish scallop specifications and other measures for fishing years 2019 and 2020.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/01/2019

Adjustment of Georges Bank and Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic Yellowtail Flounder Annual Catch Limits

This action transfers unused quota of Georges Bank and Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic yellowtail flounder from the Atlantic scallop fishery to the Northeast multispecies fishery for the remainder of the 2018 fishing year. This quota transfer is authori
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/21/2019

Closure of the Mid-Atlantic Scallop Access Area to General Category Individual Fishing Quota Scallop Vessels

NOAA Fisheries announces that the Mid-Atlantic Scallop Access Area is closed to Limited Access General Category Individual Fishing Quota scallop vessels for the remainder of the 2018 fishing year (though March 31,2019). No vessel issued a Limited Access
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
12/24/2018

Final Action to Close Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to Gillnet Gear

NOAA Fisheries closes Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to gillnet gear.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/17/2018

Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2

This action implements approved regulations for the New England Fishery Management Council's Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2. This rule revises essential fish habitat and habitat area of particular concern designations, revises or creates habit
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/09/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northern Gulf of Maine Measures in Framework Adjustment 29 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management

We approve and implement those measures included in Framework Adjustment 29 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan that establish fishing year 2018 and 2019 scallop specifications and other measures for the Northern Gulf of Maine sca
Final Rule
Effective
04/01/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 01/03/2023

Atlantic Salmon Management Plan

New England

About

Wild Atlantic salmon population levels are very low due to a variety of factors, including acid rain, habitat destruction, dams, and historic overfishing. Atlantic salmon once returned by the hundreds of thousands to most major rivers along the northeastern United States, but now only return in small number to rivers in Maine. 

Commercial fishing for Atlantic salmon is currently prohibited by law and the Gulf of Maine population is protected under the Endangered Species Act. Substantial efforts are ongoing to restore wild Atlantic salmon and their habitat. These include improving fish passage by removing or modifying dams so salmon can reach freshwater spawning and rearing areas critical to their survival, understanding and improving historically low salmon survival in the ocean, and supplementing wild populations with hatchery-raised Atlantic salmon. See Atlantic Salmon Recovery Program for more information.

With the decline of wild Atlantic salmon populations in the early 1800s, Atlantic salmon have been raised in hatcheries since 1864 in an effort to enhance the wild populations and sustain the fisheries that depend on them. In the late 1970s, commercial aquaculture ventures started rearing Atlantic salmon in Maine. See Atlantic Salmon – Farmed for more information. 

All Atlantic salmon caught incidental to a directed fishery for other species in the Exclusive Economic Zone must be released in such a manner as to insure maximum probability of survival. Possession of Atlantic salmon is prima facie evidence that such Atlantic salmon were taken in violation of the regulations. Evidence that such fish were harvested from state or foreign waters, or from an aquaculture facility, will be sufficient to rebut this presumption. This presumption does not apply to fish that are being sorted on deck.

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subpart C

Species Managed

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions
There are no under development actions associated with this management plan.
There are no implemented actions associated with this management plan.

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 01/03/2023

Atlantic Herring Management Plan

New England
Mid-Atlantic

About

The Atlantic herring fishery in the Northeastern United States operates from Maine to Cape Hatteras, North Carolina and from inshore to offshore waters on the edge of the continental shelf. The herring fishery uses predominantly single and paired mid-water trawl, bottom trawl, purse seine, and to a lesser extent, gillnet gear throughout the entire range. Herring is used primarily in the United States as bait for the American lobster and tuna fisheries, but is also frozen whole and canned for human consumption. Herring is jointly managed in state and federal waters by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and NOAA Fisheries in conjunction with the New England Fishery Management Council respectively. 

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subpart K. Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

SAFE Reports

Stock Assessment and Fishery Evaluation (SAFE) reports are documents or sets of documents that summarize the best scientific information available for federally managed fish stocks. This includes information concerning the biological condition of stocks and marine ecosystems, essential fish habitat (EFH), and the socioeconomic condition of commercial and recreational fisheries. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requires that SAFE reports be made available on a publicly accessible website to facilitate use of the information. Atlantic herring SAFE report documents are available on the New England Fishery Management Council's website.

Species Managed

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions

Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern

NOAA is requesting comment on Proposed Rule for Southern New England Habitat Area of Particular Concern
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
09/26/2023

Approval of Industry-Funded Monitoring Service Providers for the Atlantic Herring Fishery for 2022-2023

NOAA Fisheries approves herring IFM service providers for 2022-2023.
Notice
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
02/17/2022

Proposed Adjustment to Atlantic Herring Specifications and Sub-Annual Catch Limits for 2019

This action proposes an in-season adjustment to the Atlantic herring specifications and sub-annual catch limits for 2019. These adjustments are necessary to reduce 2018 herring catch limits that would otherwise remain in effect for 2019. This action is in
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Published
11/30/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States: Atlantic Herring Fishery; 2018 River Herring and Shad Catch Cap Reached for Midwater Trawl Vessels in Mid

We are reducing the Atlantic herring possession limit for federally permitted vessels fishing with midwater trawl gear in the Mid-Atlantic/Southern New England Catch Cap Closure Area, based on a projection that the threshold catch for the corresponding c
Notice
Published
03/15/2018

Cape Cod Catch Cap Closure Area Possession Limit Adjustment for Atlantic Herring

Cape Cod Catch Cap Closure Area Possession Limit Adjustment for Atlantic Herring
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/23/2024

2023 Atlantic Herring Management Area 1A Possession Limit Adjustment

Herring catch in Area 1A limited to 2,000 lb per trip/day. Effective 00:01 hr local time on November 8, 2023
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
11/08/2023

2023-2025 Atlantic Herring Fishery Specifications

2023-2025 Atlantic Herring Fishery Specifications Interim Final Rule
Interim Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/23/2023

Framework Adjustment 9 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan

Framework Adjustment 9 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan (FMP)
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
08/18/2022

Atlantic Herring Management Area 3 Sub-ACL Harvested

Atlantic Herring Management Area 3 Sub-ACL Harvested. Effective 00:01 April 1, 2021.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/01/2021

Framework Adjustment 8 and the 2021-2023 Atlantic Herring Fishery Specifications

This action sets the 2021-2023 fishing year specifications and adjustments to herring measures.
Interim Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/29/2021

Amendment 8 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries proposes regulations to implement Amendment 8 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan. The New England Fishery Management Council developed Amendment 8 to specify a long-term acceptable biological catch control rule for At
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
02/10/2021

Adjustment 6 and 2019-2021 Atlantic Herring Fishery Specifications

2019-2021 specifications for the Atlantic herring fishery, update the herring overfished and overfishing definitions, and suspend the carryover of unharvested catch for 2020 and 2021.
Final Rule
,
New England
Published
05/06/2020

Industry-Funded Monitoring Omnibus Amendment for New England Fisheries

This action proposes regulations to implement the New England Fishery Management Council's Industry-Funded Monitoring Omnibus Amendment. The New England Council is considering ways to increase monitoring in certain fisheries to assess the amount and
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/09/2020

2019 Sub-Annual Catch Limit Management Area Closure Threshold Harvested for Atlantic Herring Management Area 1A

Effective on November 27, 2019, we are closing the directed fishery for Herring Management Area 1A, based on a projection that a threshold catch amount for that management area has been reached. Beginning November 27, 2019, through December 31, 2019,
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
11/27/2019

Atlantic Herring Fishery; Adjustment to the 2019 Specifications

We are increasing the 2019 Atlantic herring annual catch limit and Area 1A sub-annual catch limit by 1,000 mt. This action is required by the herring regulations when, based on data through October 1, the New Brunswick weir fishery lands less th
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/28/2019

Atlantic Herring Fishery: 2019 Management Area 2 Sub-Annual Catch Limit Harvested

Effective on March 9, 2019, we are closing the directed fishery for Herring Management Area 2, based on a projection that a threshold catch amount for that management area has been reached. Beginning March 9, 2019, through December 31, 2019, no person may
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/09/2019

Adjustment to Atlantic Herring Specifications and Sub-Annual Catch Limits for 2019

This action implements an in-season adjustment to the Atlantic herring specifications and sub-annual catch limits for 2019. These adjustments are necessary to reduce 2018 herring catch limits that would otherwise remain in effect for 2019. This action is
Final Rule
,
New England
Effective
02/08/2019

2018 River Herring and Shad Catch Cap Reached for Atlantic Herring Midwater Trawl Vessels in the Cape Cod Catch Cap Area

NOAA Fisheries is reducing the Atlantic herring possession limit for vessels fishing with midwater trawl gear in the Cape Cod Catch Cap Closure Area, based on a projection that the prescribed catch cap for that area has been reached. This action is n
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
12/21/2018

Atlantic Herring Fishery: 2018 Management Area 1B Directed Fishery Closure

Effective October 24, 2018, NOAA Fisheries is closing the directed herring fishery in management Area 1B, based on a projection that a prescribed trigger for that area has been reached. Federally permitted vessels may not fish for, possess, transfer, rece
Temporary Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/24/2018

Adjustment to 2018 Atlantic Herring Management Area Sub-Annual Catch Limits

This interim final rule reduces the sub-annual catch limits for the four Atlantic Herring Management Areas (including Area 1A, 1B, 2, and 3). This action is necessary to address Atlantic herring population decline due to poor recruitment into the populati
Interim Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Southeast
Effective
08/22/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Herring Fishery; Adjustments to 2018 Management Area Annual Catch Limits

In accordance with the regulations implementing the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan, this action adjusts the 2018 catch limits in the four herring management areas (Areas 1A, 1B, 2, and 3) to account for underages and overages in those areas duri
Final Rule
Effective
02/15/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 10/19/2023

Tilefish Fishery Management Plan

Mid-Atlantic

About

We manage the tilefish fishery from Virginia through Maine, with the majority of fishing activity occurring in Southern New England and Mid-Atlantic waters. The majority of tilefish are caught with bottom longline gear, with only a small amount of tilefish being caught incidentally in otter trawl gear. There is also a small recreational component to the tilefish fishery.      

The Tilefish Fishery Management Plan was initially developed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council  in 2001 for golden tilefish, and has operated under an individual fishing quota program since the implementation of Amendment 1 in 2009. Blueline tilefish were added to the Tilefish Fishery Management Plan by Amendment 6 in 2017.

Golden and blueline tilefish are not overfished, nor is overfishing occurring in the tilefish fishery. 

Please note that golden and blueline tilefish south of the NC/VA border are managed by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council. 

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subpart N. Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

Species Managed

  • Tilefish (Blueline Tilefish)

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions

Proposed 2024 Golden and Blueline Tilefish Fishery Specifications

2024 tilefish specifications
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
11/14/2023

2024 Specifications for the Golden Tilefish and Blueline Tilefish Fisheries

NOAA Fisheries Announces 2024 Golden and Blueline Tilefish Fishery Specifications
Final Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/19/2024

Final Rule for 2022, 2023, and Projected 2024 Blueline Tilefish Fishery Specifications

2022-2024 blueline tilefish specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/05/2022

Final Rule for Framework 7 to the Tilefish Fishery Management Plan

Framework 7 for Tilefish
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
11/09/2022

Final Rule for 2021 Mid-Atlantic Blueline Tilefish Specifications

2021 blueline tilefish specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
05/26/2021

Final Rule for 2021-22 Golden Tilefish Specifications and Emergency Action

Tilefish Specifications, tilefish emergency action
Final Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/21/2020

2020 Commercial Blueline Tilefish Fishery Closure

Commercial blueline tilefish fishery, closure, 2020
Temporary Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
11/21/2020

Final Rule to Implement Permitting and Reporting Requirements for Private Recreational Tilefish Vessels in the Mid-Atlantic

Private recreational tilefish permitting and reporting final rule
Final Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
08/17/2020

Final 2020 Blueline Tilefish Specifications

NOAA Fisheries announces 2020 commercial and recreational specifications for the blueline tilefish fishery.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
02/18/2020

Final 2020 Golden Tilefish Commercial Fishery Specifications

NOAA Fisheries is implementing golden tilefish quotas for the 2020 fishing year that were previously announced as projected on November 7, 2017. There have been no overages in 2019, and there is no new biological information, so we are now finalizing the
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
11/01/2019

Mid-Atlantic Blueline Tilefish Fishery; 2019 and Projected 2020-2021 Specifications

NOAA Fisheries finalizes specifications for the 2019 Mid-Atlantic blueline tilefish fishery north of the North Carolina/Virginia border and projects specifications for 2020 and 2021. This action is necessary to establish allowable harvest levels and other
Final Rule
Effective
02/12/2019

Golden Tilefish 2019 Specifications

We have finalized specifications for the 2019 commercial golden tilefish fishery, including the annual catch and total allowable landings limits. This action establishes allowable harvest levels and other management measures to prevent overfishing while a
Final Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
11/01/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Framework 2 to the Tilefish Fishery Management Plan

This final rule implements the management measures contained in Framework Adjustment 2 to the Tilefish Fishery Management Plan and adjusts the 2018 specifications for this fishery. The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council developed Framework Adjustment
Final Rule
Published
03/13/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 02/06/2023

Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Management Plan

Mid-Atlantic

About

The summer flounder fishery operates from Maine to the North Carolina/South Carolina border. Summer flounder is one of the most sought after commercial and recreational fish along the Atlantic coast. Summer flounder is found in inshore and offshore waters from Nova Scotia, Canada, to the east coast of Florida. Summer flounder are mainly caught in bottom otter trawls, but are also taken by pound nets and gillnets in estuarine waters. The market for summer flounder is for human consumption and is primarily sold fresh.

The scup fishery operates from Maine to Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Scup are a migratory, schooling species found on the continental shelf of the Northwest Atlantic. Scup are mainly caught using otter trawls, but also taken by floating trap and hand lines, paired trawl, pound nets, and pots and traps.  Scup is an important recreational and commercial species along the Atlantic coast of the U.S. The market for scup is for human consumption.

The black sea bass fishery operates from Maine to Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Black sea bass migrate seasonally and spawn off of New England in the late summer. The black sea bass fishery uses predominantly black sea bass pots, otter trawls, and hook and line. Black sea bass is an important recreational and commercial species along the Atlantic coast. The market for black sea bass is for human consumption and is primarily sold fresh or frozen.

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subparts G, H and I.

Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

SAFE Reports

Stock Assessment and Fishery Evaluation (SAFE) reports are documents or sets of documents that summarize the best scientific information available for federally managed fish stocks. This includes information concerning the biological condition of stocks and marine ecosystems, essential fish habitat (EFH), and the socioeconomic condition of commercial and recreational fisheries. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requires that SAFE reports be made available on a publicly accessible website to facilitate use of the information. Summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass SAFE report documents are available on the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's website. 

Species Managed

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions

Amendment 23 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries published a proposed rule for Amendment 23 to the Fluke, Scup, and Black Sea Bass FMP that proposes changing the formula for state allocations, adding state allocations to the Federal FMP, and changing Federal in-season closure regulations.
Proposed Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Published
05/15/2023

Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Atlantic Bluefish Fisheries; 2020-2021 Specifications

We are proposing 2020 specifications for the summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, and bluefish fisheries and projects 2021 summer flounder specifications. The implementing regulations for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
07/26/2019

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Recreational Management Measures for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries; Fishing

We propose management measures for the 2018 summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass recreational fisheries. The implementing regulations for these fisheries requires us to publish recreational measures for the fishing year
Proposed Rule
,
New England
Effective
04/26/2018

Scup Fishery, Framework Adjustment 10

We propose modifications to the commercial scup quota periods, as recommended by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. The proposed change would move the month of October from the Summer Period to the Winter II Period. This rule is intended to i
Proposed Rule
Effective
03/13/2018

Final Rule to Implement 2024 and 2025 Summer Flounder and Scup and 2024 Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures

Final Rule to Implement 2024 and 2025 Summer Flounder and Scup and 2024 Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
04/26/2024

Final Rule for the 2024 and Projected 2025 Specifications for the Summer Flounder and Scup Fisheries, and 2024 Specifications for the Black Sea Bass

2024 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
01/01/2024

Final Rule: 2023 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures

Final Rule: 2023 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Recreational Management Measures
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
08/15/2023

Recreational Harvest Control Rule Framework Adjustment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Fishery Management Plans

Recreational harvest control rule
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/09/2023

Final Rule for 2023 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Specifications

2023 summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2023

Final Rule: Amendment 22 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan

Amendment 22 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2023

2022 Scup Winter II Period Quota and Possession Limit Increase

The commercial scup quota and the possession limit per trip for the 2022 Winter II Period (October 1-December 31) have been increased due to the rollover of unused quota from the Winter I period.
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/01/2022

Final Rule to Implement 2022 Recreational Management Measures for Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass

2022 recreational black sea bass, scup, summer flounder regulations
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
06/09/2022

Final Rule for 2022 and Projected 2023 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Specifications

2022-2023 Summer flounder, scup, and black seabass specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2022

Scup Winter II Period Quota and Possession Limit Adjustment

Scup possession limit winter II
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/01/2021

Final Rule for 2021 Recreational Measures for Summer Flounder

2021 recreation summer flounder rules
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
05/06/2021

Final Rule for 2021 Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Specifications

summer flounder, scup, black sea bass specifications, 2021
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2021

Amendment 21 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries is finalizing Amendment 21 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan. Amendment 21 revises the summer flounder commercial state quota allocation percentages.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
12/14/2020

Temporary Rule to Increase in the Commercial Scup Quota and Possession Limit for the 2020 Winter II Period (October 1-December 31)

Commercial Scup 2020 Winter II Season Quota
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/01/2020

Recreational Management Measures for the Summer Flounder Fishery: Fishing Year 2020

2020 Summer Flounder Recreational Measures
Final Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
06/18/2020

Revised 2020 and Projected 2021 Black Sea Bass and Scup Specifications

This action approves revised 2020 and projected 2021 specifications for the scup and black sea bass fisheries.
Final Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/15/2020

2020-2021 Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Atlantic Bluefish Fisheries

NOAA Fisheries Announces 2020-2021 Summer Flounder Specifications and Interim 2020 Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Specifications We are implementing the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s recommended 2020-2021 summer flounder specifica
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2020

Framework Adjustment 14 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries is implementing changes to aspects of the commercial and recreational summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass management program, as recommended by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. This action incorporates new management measu
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/30/2019

Scup Winter II Period Quota and Possession Limit Increase

We are adjusting the 2019 Winter II commercial scup quota and per-trip federal landing limit. This action is intended to comply with Framework Adjustment 3 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan that established
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/01/2019

Recreational Management Measures for the Summer Flounder Fishery for Fishing Year 2019

We have finalized management measures for the 2019 summer flounder recreational fishery consistent with the recommendations of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. We waive federal summ
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
07/02/2019

Revised 2019 Summer Flounder Specifications

Due to recently available information from a benchmark stock assessment, changes to the specifications are necessary to better achieve optimum yield within the fishery while controlling overfishing, consistent with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservatio
Interim Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
05/17/2019

2019 Specifications for Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass

Through this action, NOAA Fisheries implements 2019 specifications for the summer flounder and black sea bass fisheries and maintains previously-established 2019 specifications for the scup fishery.
Interim Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2019

2018 Summer Flounder Commercial Quota Harvested for the State of Rhode Island

NOAA Fisheries announces that the 2018 summer flounder commercial quota allocated to the state of Rhode Island has been harvested. Vessels issued a commercial federal permit for the summer flounder fishery may not land summer flounder in Rhode Island
Temporary Rule
,
New England
Effective
12/29/2018

Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries; Commercial Accountability Measures Framework Adjustment

NOAA Fisheries is implementing a commercial framework adjustment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan that modifies the accountability measures required for overages not caused by directed landings (i.e., discards) in t
Final Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
11/26/2018

Scup Fishery; Adjustment to the 2018 Winter II Quota

NOAA Fisheries adjusts the 2018 Winter II commercial scup quota and per-trip federal landing limit. This action is intended to comply with Framework Adjustment 3 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan that established the
Temporary Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
10/01/2018

2018 Commercial Quota Harvested for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

NOAA Fisheries announces that the 2018 summer flounder commercial quota allocated to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has been harvested. Vessels issued a commercial federal fisheries permit for the summer flounder fishery may not land summer flounder in
Temporary Rule
Effective
08/14/2018

Special Management Zones for 13 New Jersey Artificial Reefs

NOAA Fisheries approves and implements management measures to designate 13 New Jersey artificial reefs as special management zones under the black sea bass provisions of the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan. The intent of
Final Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
08/08/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Black Sea Bass Fishery; 2018 February Recreational Season Modification

NOAA Fisheries is implementing regulations to open a 2018 February recreational season in the Federal black sea bass fishery. This action provides additional recreational fishing opportunities in winter, while maintaining management measures to prevent ov
Final Rule
Published
02/01/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass Fisheries; 2018 and Projected 2019 Scup Specifications and

On December 22, 2017, we issued final specifications for scup, summer flounder, and black sea bass for 2018. That document inadvertently failed to apply a pound-for-pound overage deduction to the 2018 scup summer period quota due to overages incurred in
Final Rule
Published
01/30/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 11/02/2023

Bluefish Management Plan

Mid-Atlantic

About

The Atlantic bluefish fishery in the United States operates from Maine to Florida. Bluefish are highly migratory along the United States Atlantic coast and seasonally move. The bluefish fishery uses predominantly gillnets, but other gear also includes hook and line, pound nets, seines, and trawls. The recreational fishery accounts for the majority of the bluefish total catch each year. The market for bluefish is for human consumption and is primarily sold fresh or smoked. 

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subpart J. Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

SAFE Reports

Stock Assessment and Fishery Evaluation (SAFE) reports are documents or sets of documents that summarize the best scientific information available for federally managed fish stocks. This includes information concerning the biological condition of stocks and marine ecosystems, essential fish habitat (EFH), and the socioeconomic condition of commercial and recreational fisheries. The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requires that SAFE reports be made available on a publicly accessible website to facilitate use of the information. Atlantic Bluefish SAFE report documents are available on the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's website.

Species Managed

  • Atlantic Bluefish

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions
There are no under development actions associated with this management plan.

Final 2024 and Projected 2025 Atlantic Bluefish Specifications

final 2024 and 2025 bluefish specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2024

Recreational Harvest Control Rule Framework Adjustment to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Fishery Management Plans

Recreational harvest control rule
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
03/09/2023

Final Rule for the 2023 Atlantic Bluefish Fishery Specifications

Final 2023 Atlantic Bluefish Fishery Specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
South Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2023

2022-23 Atlantic Bluefish Fishery Specifications

NOAA Fisheries announces 2022-23 Specifications for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
02/02/2022

Amendment 7 to the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery Management Plan

NOAA Fisheries is implementing Amendment 7 to the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery Management Plan, as submitted by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2022

2021 Atlantic Bluefish Specifications

NOAA Fisheries announces 2021 Specifications for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
South Atlantic
Published
12/16/2020

Final Rule to Implement 2020-2021 Specifications and Recreational Management Measures for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery

NOAA Fisheries announces regulations implementing 2020-2021 Specifications and Recreational Management Measures for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Published
06/29/2020

2020 Atlantic Bluefish Interim Recreational Management Measures

This temporary rule implements interim recreational management measures for the 2020 Atlantic bluefish fishery to prevent overfishing.
Emergency Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
02/28/2020

2020-2021 Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Atlantic Bluefish Fisheries

NOAA Fisheries Announces 2020-2021 Summer Flounder Specifications and Interim 2020 Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Specifications We are implementing the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s recommended 2020-2021 summer flounder specifica
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2020

2019 Atlantic Bluefish Specifications

We have issued final specifications for the 2019 Atlantic bluefish fishery. This action establishes allowable harvest levels for the bluefish stock, to prevent overfishing while allowing optimum yield.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
South Atlantic
Published
03/12/2019

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 10/31/2023

Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Management Plan

New England
Mid-Atlantic

About

The surfclam and ocean quahog fishery is managed under a fishery management plan (FMP) developed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. With the exception of the Maine mahogany quahog fishery, the fishery has operated under an individual transferable quota (ITQ) management system since 1990. 

The principal gear used in the fishery is the hydraulic clam dredge, which uses jets of water to dislodge ocean quahogs and surfclams from sediments.

A smaller "dry" dredge (without hydraulic jets) is used in Maine waters to harvest Maine mahogany quahogs.

The mahogany quahog fishery off Maine is managed under a relatively small quota that is separate from the quota used to manage the ITQ fishery. Ocean quahogs off Maine are managed separately because of differences in biological, fishery, and market characteristics.

Implementing regulations are found at 50 CFR part 648 subpart E. Find out more about Managing Sustainable Fisheries in the Greater Atlantic Region.

Species Managed

More Information

Actions

Under Development Implemented Actions
There are no under development actions associated with this management plan.

Final Rule for 2024 Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Specifications and Minimum Size Suspension for Surfclams

2024 Surfclam and Ocean Quahog specifications and minimum size
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2024

Improvement and Modernization of Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Vessel Reporting Regulations

Improvement and Modernization of Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Vessel Reporting Regulations
Final Rule
,
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
09/27/2023

Final Rule for 2023 Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Specifications

2023 surfclam and ocean quahog specifications and minimum size suspension
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2023

Final Rule for the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Excessive Shares Amendment

surfclam and ocean quahog excessive shares amendment
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/23/2022

Final Rule for 2022 Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Specifications and Minimum Size Suspension for Surfclams

surfclam and ocean quahog quotas 2022, minimum size suspension 2022
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2022

Final 2021 and Projected 2022-2026 Specifications for the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries

2021 surfclam and ocean quahog specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
06/14/2021

Habitat Clam Dredge Exemption Framework

NOAA Fisheries is implementing the New England Fishery Management Council's; Habitat Clam Dredge Exemption Framework Adjustment to its Fishery Management Plans. The action will establish areas within the Great South Channel Habitat Management Area
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
06/18/2020

Final 2020 Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Commercial Fishery Specifications and Minimum Size Suspension for Atlantic Surfclams

Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog 2020 specifications
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2020

Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries: 2019 Fishing Quotas and Suspension of Minimum Atlantic Surfclam Size Limit

NOAA Fisheries suspends the minimum size limit for Atlantic surfclams for the 2019 fishing year. NOAA Fisheries also announces that the quotas for the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries for 2019 will remain status quo. Regulations governing thes
Final Rule
,
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Effective
01/01/2019

Final Action to Close Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to Gillnet Gear

NOAA Fisheries closes Nantucket Lightship and Closed Area I Closure Areas to gillnet gear.
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
12/17/2018

Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2

This action implements approved regulations for the New England Fishery Management Council's Omnibus Essential Fish Habitat Amendment 2. This rule revises essential fish habitat and habitat area of particular concern designations, revises or creates habit
Final Rule
,
New England
Mid-Atlantic
Effective
04/09/2018

Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery; 2018-2020 Fishing Quotas

This final rule implements status quo commercial quotas for the Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries for 2018 and projected status quo quotas for 2019 and 2020. This action is necessary to establish allowable harvest levels of Atlantic surfclams a
Final Rule
Published
02/06/2018

Last updated by Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office on 07/25/2022