New Fishing Regulations for Alaska Residents in Federal Waters
SITKA, AK — The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) will host a public meeting on Wednesday at Centennial Hall to discuss new regulations impacting resident sport fishermen in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), maritime waters that extend from three to 200 nautical miles off the coast.
For the first time, residents fishing in the EEZ must adhere to the same seasons, bag and possession limits, and size limits that nonresidents follow—a significant shift prompted by a recent ruling from the Alaska Board of Fisheries. The proposal, initiated by California lawmaker Marc Gorelnik, aimed to standardize regulations for resident and nonresident anglers in federal waters, aligning with the Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries Conservation Act.
Historically, ADF&G managed to apply different regulations for residents fishing in the EEZ, where resident harvests have constituted a minimal portion of overall catches. However, an increase in offshore fishing efforts prompted reconsideration.
This change will notably impact anglers from Southeast communities, especially Sitka, as these areas see more engagement with the EEZ. Under the new rules, residents must familiarize themselves with nonresident regulations, even when transitioning from state to federal waters. Specific examples, such as the limits on king salmon, lingcod, and rockfish, highlight the nuances of compliance for residents.
Troy Tydingco, ADF&G Sitka Area Manager, emphasized the importance of understanding these changes and the complexities they present. The public meeting will offer a platform for residents to learn more about the regulations and ask questions, with representatives from ADF&G, NOAA, and the U.S. Coast Guard in attendance.
The meeting is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, providing a crucial opportunity for resident anglers to navigate the forthcoming regulations and ensure compliance in the EEZ.
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Photo credit sitkasentinel.com
