Alaska board of fisheries process

The State Board of Fisheries (BOF) was established under Alaska Statute to conserve and develop Alaska’s fishery resources. The board creates and amends policy decisions for Alaska commercial, subsistence, sport, and personal use fishing regulations for management.

The participation process for BOF presents as overwhelming, but is surprisingly easy to engage. CDFU participates at all BOF meetings and works directly with regional fishermen to empower Area E public comments and proposals. 

The next Prince William Sound Finfish and Shellfish (except shrimp) meeting is December 10-16, 2024.

The Board of Fisheries

The Board of Fisheries is comprised of seven members who serve three year terms. These members are appointed by the Governor, then approved through committees in the State Legislature before being seated to the board. Members are required to be non-political and unbiased in their decision-making. Many proposals to the BOF affect fishing area, time, method and allocation.

Proposals & live meetings

If you can’t attend BOF meetings, you can listen live from the comfort of your boat, home, or office.

CDFU supports a coordinated regional approach to the Board of Fisheries proposals process, for in-cycle and off cycle meetings. Reach out to CDFU with your questions or concerns about fishing issues. If you are drafting proposals, let us know.

Emergency Petitions

Emergency petitions may be submitted by any participant in fisheries of Alaska to the BOF outside the cycle of scheduled meetings. Emergency petitions can be submitted by the public to the Board of Fisheries throughout the year. CDFU participates in meetings and addresses petitions through the public comment process. Sign up for BOF meeting and proposal announcements to stay up to date.