The Gulf Council took final action to require commercial and recreational fishermen to possess a venting tool or descending device that is rigged and ready for use when fishing for reef fish in the federal waters of the Gulf of America. These requirements will replace regulations required by the DESCEND Act which is scheduled to expire in January of 2026. The use of descending devices or venting tools reduces release mortality of many reef fish, resulting in increased conservation and sustainability of reef fish stocks.

This Amendment will be transmitted to the secretary of Commerce for consideration and implementation as soon as practicable.

About The Gulf Council

The Gulf Council is one of eight regional Fishery Management Councils established by the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976. The Council prepares fishery management plans, which are designed to manage fishery resources within the 200-mile limit of the Gulf of America.