NOAAFinal Rule

International Fisheries: Pacific Tuna Fisheries; 2025-2026 Commercial Fishing Restrictions for Pacific Bluefin Tuna in the Eastern Pacific Ocean

AgricultureEnvironment

Summary

The federal government is setting new limits on how much Pacific bluefin tuna commercial fishermen can catch in the eastern Pacific Ocean during 2025 and 2026. These restrictions aim to protect bluefin tuna populations from overfishing so the species can recover and remain available for future generations.

Key Points

  • 1Commercial fishing boats operating in U.S. waters off the coasts of California and other western states will have reduced catch limits for Pacific bluefin tuna
  • 2These restrictions are part of international agreements to manage tuna fishing across the Pacific Ocean and prevent the species from being depleted
  • 3Fishing companies and commercial fishermen must follow these new rules or face penalties
  • 4The limits apply specifically to the 2025 and 2026 fishing seasons and may change after that period
  • 5These restrictions help ensure bluefin tuna remain healthy and sustainable for the fishing industry and ecosystem long-term

Impact Assessment

If you are a commercial bluefin tuna fisherman, this means your catch limits for 2025-2026 will be reduced, directly affecting your revenue and operational capacity in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope

International

Compliance Cost

Moderate

Who is Affected
Small BusinessesImporters/ExportersConsumers

Key Dates

Published

May 6, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
50 CFR Part 660

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.