At the 2026 summer meeting, the ASMFC approved Draft Addendum II to the Menhaden Management Plan for public comment. Draft Addendum II includes options to reduce the Chesapeake Bay Reduction Fishery Cap, distribute harvest across the fishing season, and regularly revisit the cap as new science becomes available.

Maintaining abundant menhaden is both a conservation and economic priority. Menhaden provide critical forage for striped bass, bluefish, red drum, cobia and other sportfish, while also serving as one of the Atlantic Coast’s most important recreational baits. Recreational anglers also spend more than $804 million fishing with menhaden each year, encompassing more than 13.9 million fishing days and supporting 7,200 jobs.

The public comment period is open through Oct. 9. Tell ASMFC to support science-based Chesapeake Bay menhaden management that recognizes this resource's importance to healthy fisheries and the recreational fishing economy.