On March 1, 2012, a new vessel permit program will go into effect for Atlantic mackerel.
This program was developed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council in Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan. The program is designed to reduce fishing capacity of the mackerel fleet while allowing qualified vessels to continue fishing for mackerel at their historic or recent level of participation in the fishery. You can access the permit holder letter that fully describes the limited access program (including the eligibility requirements).