The Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) has announced a strategic shift in its approach to the live bait fishery, opting for a more cautious schedule of one trip every other month. This decision, made during the April 2025 council meeting, aims to monitor the fishery's performance through the summer and into the fall, allowing for a better understanding of stock levels and sustainability.

Council members emphasized the importance of ongoing communication with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to ensure that any pressures on the annual catch limit (ACL) or acceptable catch target (ACT) are managed effectively. This proactive approach is intended to prevent exacerbating any potential issues related to fish stock levels.

During the public comment segment, Jeff Chester from Oceana highlighted concerns regarding the current state of fish stocks, noting that recent assessments indicate a lack of significant recruitment and a decline in biomass estimates. Chester reiterated the community's desire for a rebuilt fishery, stressing the importance of adhering to sustainable fishing practices to prevent overfishing.

The council's commitment to rebuilding fish stocks and managing fisheries responsibly reflects a broader goal of ensuring long-term sustainability for both marine ecosystems and fishing communities. As the PFMC moves forward with its revised fishing schedule, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the outcomes to assess the effectiveness of these measures.