NMFS seeks nominees for about 10 Atlantic HMS Advisory Panel seats; deadline December 7
A November 6 Federal Register notice opens nominations for roughly one third of the panel that advises NMFS on Atlantic tunas, billfish, swordfish and sharks. Recreational and for-hire anglers are among the interests NMFS says it will consider.
The National Marine Fisheries Service published a notice in the Federal Register on November 6, 2026 (document 2026-22669, RTID 0648-XG147) soliciting nominations for the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Advisory Panel. Nominations are due on or before December 7, 2026.
NMFS says it is looking to fill approximately one third of the panel, about 10 seats, each for a 3-year appointment. The panel is consulted when NMFS prepares fishery management plans or amendments for Atlantic swordfish, sharks, tunas and billfish. HMS rules are at 50 CFR part 635.
The notice says NMFS will consider people with definable interests in recreational and commercial fishing and related industries, including the environmental community and non-governmental organizations. Qualifying experience listed includes HMS recreational fisheries, HMS commercial fisheries, fishery-related industries such as marinas and bait and tackle shops, and the scientific community working with HMS.
A nomination package should include the nominee’s contact information, a description of their interest in HMS fisheries, a statement of background or qualifications, a list of outreach resources, and a written commitment to take part in good faith in panel meetings and tasks. Members must follow applicable rules of conduct, including ethics requirements. Submission is by email, with the subject line “HMS AP Nominations.” The notice gives the address and a NMFS contact; use the Federal Register text rather than a copy.
This is a call for nominations, not a rule change. It does not alter any bag limit, season or permit requirement. The panel advises NMFS; the agency makes the decisions. The excerpt we reviewed was cut off partway through the membership criteria, so check the full notice for any requirements beyond those above.
On the water: Rules and conditions can change quickly. Confirm current regulations and official marine forecasts for your exact trip.