NOAA Finalizes Rule for Midwater Trawl Gear in Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery

Summary

The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has finalized a rule clarifying the regulations for vessels using midwater trawl gear in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Shorebased Individual Fishing Quota Program. The new rule aims to reduce confusion and inconsistencies in the current regulations, particularly for vessels targeting Pacific whiting, allowing for the retention of prohibited and protected species until landing.