Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone off Alaska; Amendment 125 to the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Fishery Management Plan; Pacific Cod Small Boat Access

This action would implement amendment 125 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area. This action would add a small vessel provision to the current BSAI Pacific cod jig sector in the A season. Under this provision, catch from catcher vessels using hook-and-line or pot gear that are less than or equal to 55 feet (16.8 meters) length overall harvesting Pacific cod during the jig gear A season would accrue to the jig sector allocation. This action would provide stability and additional opportunities for some fishery participants and potential new entrants.