NOAA Closes Northern Atlantic Zone for Commercial Spanish Mackerel

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is closing the northern zone of the Atlantic exclusive economic zone to commercial fishing for Spanish mackerel. This action applies to the Atlantic migratory group of the fish.

Why it matters: This is a standard management trigger. It ensures the fishery does not exceed its scientific limit. For most people, this is a minor administrative update. For commercial operators in the northern zone, it means they can no longer land Spanish mackerel in that specific area for the remainder of the 2026-2027 season.

Who it affects

• Commercial Spanish mackerel fishermen operating in the northern Atlantic zone

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This rule is issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and published in the Federal Register; readers should consult the original document for specific zone boundaries and effective dates.

Agency: Commerce Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document