Subsistence Halibut Fishing in Alaska
Subsistence halibut is halibut caught by a rural resident or a member of an Alaska Native tribe for direct personal or family consumption as food, sharing, or customary trade.
History
In October 2000, North Pacific Fishery Management Council adopted a subsistence halibut program that recognizes the Alaska subsistence halibut fishery. This program was approved by the Secretary of Commerce and regulations that carry out this program have been in effect since May 15, 2003. Amendments to the subsistence program were made through changes to the initial regulations in May 2005 and October 2008. The regulations that govern the subsistence halibut fishery can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) at 50 CFR Part 300.
- Overview (Small Entity Compliance Guide)
How to Fish for Subsistence Halibut
Before fishing under the subsistence halibut regulations, eligible fishermen must obtain a Subsistence Halibut Registration Certificate (SHARC). Special permits for community harvest, ceremonial, and educational purposes also are available to qualified Alaska communities and Alaska Native Tribes. Permit holders must comply with SHARC registration and reporting processes.
- How to Replace or Renew a SHARC
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Permit applications and Reporting Forms
- Online SHARC renewal (eFISH)
- Permits and Licenses Issued
Regulations
Regulations to implement subsistence halibut fishing were published in the Federal Register on April 15, 2003, and became effective May 15, 2003.
- To fish for subsistence halibut you must meet the requirements in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3) of 50 CFR 300.65: Catch sharing plan and domestic management measures in waters in and off Alaska.
- Eligible Communities: 300.65(g)(1)
- Eligible Tribes: 300.65(g)(2)
- Rural Resident: 300.65(g)(3)
- Maps: Rural and non-rural areas (Figures 2-7)
- Federal Register Rules and Notices
- Halibut subsistence and non-subsistence areas interactive map
- IPHC Halibut Regulatory Areas