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Pacific Council adopts halibut catch‑sharing plan changes and asks for public review of California April starts
Summary
After reviewing state reports, the council adopted for public review status‑quo commercial season structure and ODFW/WDFW proposed recreational alternatives, and approved a proposal to consider moving California subarea sport start dates to April 1.
The council adopted proposed changes to the Area 2A Pacific halibut catch‑sharing plan and annual regulations for 2026 for public review, following state briefings and advisory‑body recommendations.
NIMS reported area attainment is preliminarily 79% and described improvements to in‑season notice procedures and permit deadlines. Oregon and Washington staff presented alternative recreational season structures and adjustments to nearshore allocations. After discussion, the council voted to advance for public review the status‑quo directed commercial season structure and the ODFW/WDFW proposals; the council also approved a California proposal to set subarea sport start dates to April 1 for public review. The council noted staff will return in November with finalized draft regulatory language and analysis.
What to expect next: Proposed changes will go out for public review and the council will consider final action in November. NIMS said the permit deadline will remain March 15 to improve fishermen planning.
