The Forage Fish Conservation Act of 2025 strengthens federal management of forage fish—small species like herring and anchovies that form the foundation of marine food webs by feeding larger commercial fish, marine mammals, and birds. The bill requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish a formal definition of forage fish within 12 months and directs regional fishery councils to develop management plans before allowing any new commercial forage fish fisheries to begin. It also mandates that when setting catch limits for forage fish, managers must consider the dietary needs of species that depend on them, and establishes new research priorities focused on forage fish populations and distribution. Additionally, the bill specifically requires the Atlantic herring and mackerel fisheries to include river herring and shad in their management plans within six months and mandates increased observer coverage on vessels using mid-water trawl fishing gear to monitor bycatch. The legislation takes effect gradually, with most provisions becoming effective 2 to 5 years after enactment, giving councils and regulators time to implement the new requirements.
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