IB 25-56: NMFS Revises the 2026 Pacific Cod Total Allowable Catch Amounts in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is revising the 2026 total allowable catch (TAC) amounts for the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Pacific cod fisheries, effective 0001 hours, Alaska local time, January 1, 2026, according to Jonathan M. Kurland, Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS.

NMFS is increasing the 2026 Aleutian Islands Pacific cod TAC from 8,432 mt to 8,951 mt to account for a reduction in the guideline harvest level set for the State of Alaska waters Pacific cod fishery in the Aleutian Islands. NMFS is also adjusting the 2026 sector allocations and seasonal allowances of the BSAI Pacific cod TACs. These adjustments are necessary because NMFS has determined the Aleutian Islands Pacific cod TAC is incorrectly specified and these adjustments will address the underharvest of BSAI Pacific cod TACs that would result if the TACs were not adjusted and are taken in accordance with 50 CFR 679.25. These adjustments are also necessary to ensure that the BSAI Pacific cod TACs are seasonally apportioned among sectors consistent with the Steller sea lion protection measures and that the Area 543 Pacific cod harvest limit is correctly specified.

This information bulletin only provides notice of a fishery management action. For the purposes of complying with any requirements of this action, you are advised to see the actual text of the action in the Federal Register.