NOAA Fisheries is holding the first public hearing today on proposed changes to commercial gear rules for Atlantic highly migratory species. The webinar runs from 1 to 3 p.m. Atlantic time, with a second hearing scheduled for October 1 and written comments due October 13.
The proposal would allow spearguns to be used to retain and sell bigeye, albacore, yellowfin and skipjack tuna under certain commercial permits. It would also authorize power-assisted deployment and retrieval of buoy gear, expand some species that may be retained with that gear and clarify when small nets may be carried for collecting bait.
NOAA says the rule would affect commercial fishermen across the northwestern Atlantic, including the U.S. Caribbean, as well as dealers who buy or sell highly migratory species. The agency is still gathering comments; none of the proposed changes is final.
Virgin Islands fishermen and seafood businesses can review the federal proposal, register for a hearing or submit comments through NOAA's official action page. Comments may address costs, safety, access, conservation and how the proposed gear rules would work in local waters.
Source published Issued August 13, 2026; hearing August 31, 2026. Read the original reporting or release for the complete record.
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