Federal Register #2026-10096

NOAA Final Rule: Prohibition on Retention of Mobulid Rays in Atlantic HMS Fisheries

NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has issued a regulatory final rule affecting Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS) fisheries: - Government buyer: - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) - No OEMs or commercial vendors are involved, as this is not a procurement action - Products/services requested: - No products or services are being procured; this is a regulatory rule - Key requirements: - Prohibits retention of mobulid rays (e.g., manta and devil rays) in Atlantic HMS fisheries - All vessels with HMS permits must release mobulid rays unharmed - Vessels using pelagic longline gear must disentangle and release mobulid rays with less than 3 feet of line remaining attached to the hook - Implements ICCAT Recommendation 2412 - Applies to all HMS permit holders (tuna, billfish, swordfish, shark fisheries) - No contract value, products, or services are associated with this action

Description

This final rule by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) prohibits the retention of mobulid rays in fisheries for Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS). It requires vessels to release mobulid rays unharmed and implements specific handling practices for vessels fishing with pelagic longline gear, including disentangling and releasing rays safely. The rule aligns with the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Recommendation 2412 and is effective June 22, 2026. It applies to various HMS permit holders and aims to promote the survival of mobulid rays after fishery interactions.

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