Press Release: Alaska Board of Fisheries Implements Stricter Limits on Pelagic Rockfish Harvest
In a recent meeting in Ketchikan, the Alaska Board of Fisheries unanimously approved significant regulation changes aimed at managing the pelagic rockfish population in Southeast Alaska. The updated daily bag limit for anglers will drop from five to three fish, and the possession limit will decrease from ten to six fish. These limits apply to several species, including black, blue, and yellowtail rockfish, effective from March 1.
The move comes as the Alaska Department of Fish and Game noted a dramatic increase in pelagic rockfish harvests, soaring from 59,000 fish in 2009 to 261,000 fish in 2023. The majority of this increase has been attributed to nonresident anglers, who have turned to rockfish due to reduced opportunities for halibut, salmon, and lingcod. Sportfish biologist Jake Wieliczkiewicz estimated that the new regulations will decrease harvest levels by approximately 20%.
Recognizing the long-lived and late-maturing nature of rockfish, regulators expressed concern over potential overharvesting and localized depletion, especially given the limited stock assessment data currently available. The board has granted the Fish and Game authority to implement different bag limits for residents and nonresidents via emergency orders if needed.
In addition to the new limitations on pelagic rockfish, the board approved a reopening of the yelloweye rockfish fishery, allowing both residents and nonresidents to harvest this species with specific limits. The sport fishery, closed since 2020 due to stock concerns, will feature a resident bag limit of one fish and a nonresident season from July through September.
Despite some reservations, the board’s actions reflect a commitment to sustainable fishing practices, balancing conservation efforts with the desire to provide fishing opportunities for the community.
Source
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