Final rule · 2026-19681

Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fisheries; Closure of the General Category September Fishery for 2026

NMFS closes the General category fishery for Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) for the remainder of the September time period. The General category may only retain, possess, or land large medium and giant (i.e., measuring 73 inches (185 centimeters (cm) curved fork length (CFL) or greater) BFT when the fishery is open. This action also waives the previously scheduled restricted-fishing days (RFDs) for the remainder of the September time period. With the RFDs waived during the closure, fishermen aboard General category permitted vessels and HMS Charter/Headboat permitted vessels may tag and release BFT of all sizes, subject to the requirements of the catch-and- release and tag-and-release programs. On October 1, 2026, the fishery will reopen automatically and previously scheduled RFDs for the October through November time period will resume.