NOAAFinal Rule
Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries: 2026 Fishing Quotas for Atlantic Surfclams and Ocean Quahogs and Suspension of Atlantic Surfclam Minimum Size Limit
AgricultureEnvironment
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Summary
This federal rule sets fishing limits for two types of shellfish (surfclams and ocean quahogs) found off the Atlantic coast for the year 2026, and temporarily removes the requirement that Atlantic surfclams meet a minimum size. These changes affect commercial fishermen and the seafood industry, and help manage ocean resources to prevent overfishing.
Key Points
- 1The government has set specific quotas (catch limits) for Atlantic surfclams and ocean quahogs that fishermen can harvest in 2026
- 2Atlantic surfclam fishing no longer requires the clams to be a certain minimum size, which changes what fishermen can sell
- 3These rules are managed by NOAA, the federal agency responsible for protecting ocean resources and fisheries
- 4Commercial fishing companies and seafood suppliers are the main businesses affected by these new limits
- 5The rules are designed to balance letting fishermen make a living while preventing these shellfish populations from being overharvested
Impact Assessment
If you are a commercial shellfish fisher, this means your 2026 catch limits for surfclams and ocean quahogs are set by this rule, and you can now harvest smaller surfclams than previously allowed.
Impact Level
Moderate
Geographic Scope
Regional
Compliance Cost
Minimal
Who is Affected
Small BusinessesImporters/ExportersWorkers/LaborersConsumers
Key Dates
Published
January 13, 2026
Regulatory Connections
Amends CFR Sections
50 CFR Part 648
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (NOAA_FRDOC_0001)
NOAAAgriculture
Fisheries of the Northeastern United States: 2026 and Projected 2027 Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Fisheries
NOAAAgriculture
Fraser River Panel Salmon Fisheries: Inseason Orders
NOAAEnvironment
Eliminating Redundant Regulatory Part Related to Public Information and Disclosure
NOAAEnvironment
Regulations Governing the Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; CFR Correction
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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