Bering Sea Tanner Crab Fishery Set for Major Increase in Upcoming Season
The Bering Sea tanner crab fishery is poised for a substantial increase in its upcoming season, with state officials announcing a total allowable catch of 32.1 million pounds. This figure represents nearly a threefold increase from the previous season and…

Anchorage, AK, October 6, 2026 — The Bering Sea tanner crab fishery is anticipating a significant upturn in its upcoming season, with state officials recently announcing a total allowable catch (TAC) of 32.1 million pounds for bairdi tanner crab. This substantial quota marks a nearly threefold increase compared to the previous season’s figures.
The announced TAC of 32.1 million pounds is also reportedly the largest set for the fishery in more than three decades. Officials attribute this significant rebound in bairdi tanner crab populations to a recovery following a period affected by a marine heat wave.
The new fishing season is scheduled to commence on October 15. In addition to the notable increase in tanner crab quotas, the upcoming season will also feature an elevated harvest allowance for Bristol Bay red king crab. This provides a considerable boost to the local fishing fleet.
However, the outlook for snow crab harvests in the region indicates a reduction for the upcoming season. Specific details regarding the exact reduction in snow crab quotas were not immediately available in the announcement.
Story summarized from the original created by Hal Bernton on www.adn.com, see more information here.
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