Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act; General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Applications for Exempted Fishing Permits

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NMFS received an exempted fishing permit (EFP) application for U.S. West Coast highly migratory species (HMS) fisheries that warrants further consideration at this time. The EFP applicant requests exemptions from regulatory provisions pertaining to the use of authorized gear types under the Fishery Management Plan for U.S. West Coast Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species (HMS FMP). The applicant proposes to test the effects and efficacy of using monofilament rings as an alternative form of terminal tackle (herein referred to as "ring tackle") used to harvest swordfish and other HMS off of the U.S. West Coast. During the March 2026 Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) meeting, the Council reviewed and endorsed the EFP application and recommended that NMFS approve it. NMFS has determined that this application warrants further consideration and is requesting public comment on it.