King and Spanish Mackerel Port Meetings

How do you envision the future of the king and Spanish mackerel fisheries?

draft meetings report

Council

Background

The South Atlantic Council manages important recreational and commercial fisheries, including king and Spanish mackerel. Members of the Council’s Mackerel Cobia Advisory Panel (AP) requested the Council hold a series of port meetings to gather more information on the Atlantic king and Spanish mackerel fisheries. AP members felt that a focused look into these fisheries was needed, especially as changing environmental conditions alter fishery dynamics.

At the urging of the AP, the Council hosted a series of port meetings along the Atlantic coast throughout 2024. Port meetings were more than a public comment opportunity. Attendees had the chance to actively discuss their perspectives with other fishery participants and local Council members. The South Atlantic Council recognizes that stakeholder input is essential in achieving effective management. These port meetings provided a unique opportunity for stakeholders in the king and Spanish mackerel fisheries to share their insights and ultimately define the future for these changing fisheries.

Resources

• King Mackerel Species Page
• Spanish Mackerel Species Page
• Gulf Council
• ASMFC

Goals and Objectives of Mackerel Port Meetings

• Evaluate current goals and objectives of the Coastal Migratory Pelagics Fishery Management Plan.
• Achieve the maximum economic and social yield from the fishery.
• Maintain the long-term sustainability of stocks.
• Maintain the integrity of fishing communities under climate change.
• Achieve the most equitable management structure under climate change.
• Identify underserved communities and equity and environmental justice concerns.
• Consider inter-jurisdictional management and cooperation with other councils and commissions.

Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Efforts

King and Spanish mackerel are jointly managed by the Gulf Council. The Gulf Council will be undertaking a complementary effort to the South Atlantic Council’s Port Meeting endeavor. Their plan is tailored to the Gulf of Mexico region and aims to gather specific feedback on the movement and health of the fisheries, dynamics of fishing behavior, and their role within the ecosystem. For more information on the Gulf Council’s efforts, visit their website.

Thanks to the Mackerel Cobia Port Meetings Planning Team!