Direct fishing for Pacific cod by catcher processors using hook and line gear in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands has been restricted by NMFS. According to NMFS the law becomes effective from 12 noon February 8 in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area (BSAI).
James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS, said that the measure was taken to prevent exceeding the A season allowance of the 2008 Pacific cod. He added that the total allowable catch allocated to catcher processors using hook and line gear in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area (BSAI) and is issued pursuant to 50 CFR 679.20(d)(1)(iii).
He further informed that after the effective date of this closure the maximum retainable amounts at 50 CFR 679.20(e) and (f) apply at any time during a trip. This would help to restore the depleting stocks of Pacific cod which is highly in demand al over Europe and America.
The Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management area has overwhelming response to its fishing stocks and fishermen from all over the place use to come there to catch renowned Pacific cod by using hook and line gear and that not only harms the other species but also create trouble for the cod fish.
