Overview
This framework proposes a revised rebuilding plan and 2026-2027 specifications for the Atlantic mackerel fishery. Based on a 2025 assessment showing improved stock trends, the revised plan will allow higher catches while continuing to rebuild the stock by 2032. This action reflects the Council’s efforts to expand fishing opportunities where stock conditions allow, consistent with the Executive Order on Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness.
The Council took final action on the framework at the December 2025 Council Meeting. While the higher quota may be implemented relatively quickly, associated trip limit changes may take longer to clear various NOAA regulatory processes.
Contact: Jason Didden (jdidden@mafmc.org, 302-526-5254)
Framework Development Timeline
Current Action Plan (as of 10/14/25)
August 2025 Council Meeting: Action initiated.
October 2025 Council Meeting: The Council reviewed a draft range of alternatives and instructed staff to refine a range of approaches for 2026-2027 that would continue rebuilding based on the SSC’s recommendations.
October-December 2025 Advisory Body Meetings:
December 2025 Council Meeting: The Council selected preferred alternatives and approved the framework for submission to NOAA Fisheries. See the press release for additional details.
Modified Trip Limits
Once approved and implemented by NOAA Fisheries, the new commercial quotas will allow substantially higher initial Atlantic mackerel trip limits. The adopted trip limits, which may take months for NOAA to implement would be:
Phase 1 - Start of year
Tier 1: 200,000 pounds per trip; Tier 2: 135,000 pounds per trip; Tier 3: 100,000 pounds per trip
Open access: 20,000 pounds per trip
Phase 2 - triggers when 1,100 metric tons of quota remain
All limited access Tiers: 20,000 pounds per trip
Open access: 5,000 pounds per trip
Phase 3 - triggers when 220 metric tons of quota remain
All limited access Tiers: 10,000 pounds per trip
Open access: 2,500 pounds per trip