NPFMC Requests December Review of Crab Fisheries Emergency Rule Request Analysis
Federal fisheries managers have requested a December review of National Marine Fisheries Service’s analysis of an emergency rule request to prohibit pelagic trawl, pot and hook-and-line fisheries in the Red King Crab Savings Area and Subarea from Jan. 1 through June 30, 2023.
Council members said they would review the information in the analysis so that they can make an informed recommendation on the emergency rule request.
During its October meeting in Anchorage, the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC) declined to impose any restrictions on trawl fisheries, as requested by the Alaska Bering Sea Crabbers (ABSC) and others concerned that trawling is having an adverse impact on crab abundance.
The Bristol Bay red king crab fishery subsequently was closed for a secon...