Next Step for Albie Conservation: Join the Discussion on October 30th

The state of North Carolina is making a significant move toward conserving our beloved false albacore. Known to recreational anglers as “little tunny,” this lightning-fast, often-picky fish plays a key role in marine ecosystems and offers unforgettable experiences for anglers of all skill levels. However, despite its popularity, the false albacore has been largely unmanaged on both state and federal levels. That may soon change, thanks to a bold initiative by the North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission (NCMFC), which seeks to implement state regulations to better manage this species.

The last step in this process was a major win. This past August, the albie community spoke up, and thanks to their efforts, we are one step closer to management. On August 23rd, the NC Marine Fisheries Commission made a decision on rule making for false albacore management. As a reminder, albie supporters made noise about this rule making proposal. Out of nearly 230 comments submitted, almost 75% of those were directed at albie management. Of the nearly 170 albie comments, 99.5% were positive comments in support of management. There was only 1 single comment in opposition. The turnout of support by advocates in the digital comment window was undeniable. And that comment tsunami translated into a unanimous vote (9-0-0) to pass step 2 of this process. We told you that the next step in this process would take place later this fall. That time has arrived.

The NCMFC is now accepting public comments on a proposed rule, 15A NCAC 03M .0523, that would empower the Fisheries Director to issue management actions, or “proclamations,” if false albacore landings exceed a specific threshold. This is a critical step, as North Carolina currently lacks the procedural means to safeguard this fishery, even as its popularity continues to rise along the East Coast. By regulating the fishery proactively, the state aims to ensure sustainable populations of false albacore for future generations.

A public hearing on this issue will be held via webinar on October 30, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. This virtual meeting allows participants from all along the coast, and even beyond, to engage and share their thoughts on the proposed regulation. Now is the time for all albie fans from Massachusetts to Florida to unite. If these regulations make it through the process in North Carolina, other states will follow.

If you wish to comment during the hearing, you must register to speak by noon on the day of the hearing. You can also submit written comments through an online form or by mail, with a deadline for submission by 5 p.m. on December 2, 2024.

This is your chance to make a difference in the future of the false albacore fishery not matter where you live. North Carolina deserves our gratitude for recognizing the importance of protecting this species and for taking proactive measures to manage it before it faces more significant threats. The proposed rule sets a foundation for sustainable fishing, ensuring that recreational can continue to enjoy the benefits of healthy false albacore populations for years to come.

How to Participate:

• Attend the public hearing on October 30 by registering for the webinar here.
• Submit written comments by using the online form available on the NCMFC website, or mail your comments to: N.C. Marine Fisheries Commission Rules Comments
  P.O. Box 769,
  Morehead City, N.C. 28557

For more information about the proposed rules, including how to sign up for the hearing and submit comments, visit the N.C. Marine Fisheries Commission website.

Let’s take this opportunity to speak up for false albacore and thank North Carolina for prioritizing their management and conservation. By coming together, we can ensure this magnificent species thrives for future generations of anglers.