The bill amends existing laws regarding commercial set gillnet fishing in Alaska by introducing provisions that allow multiple set gillnet entry permit holders to fish cooperatively. Specifically, it permits two or more permit holders to operate their authorized gear together, provided that each permit holder is present and actively engaged in the operation. The cooperative can consist of no more than ten permit holders, and fish harvested under this arrangement do not need to be stored or delivered separately based on individual permits. The Board of Fisheries is tasked with creating regulations to implement these cooperative fishing practices, which will include requirements for registration and reporting of harvested fish.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that members of a cooperative can sell all salmon harvested collectively, either by a single permit holder or through a transporter acting on behalf of the cooperative. This change aims to streamline the selling process for fish harvested in cooperation, enhancing the efficiency of commercial fishing operations. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment.

Statutes affected:
HB0117A, AM HB 117, introduced 02/26/2025: 16.05.251, 16.05.680