Protecting River Herring: Why Action Is Needed Now
River herring—once abundant throughout Southern New England and the Mid-Atlantic—are still struggling to recover. These fish play a critical role in coastal and river ecosystems, supporting wildlife, commercial fisheries, and local communities. Yet their populations remain severely depleted.
One of the biggest threats to river herring today is bycatch—the accidental capture of river herring in large, mixed-species fisheries. In particular, the Atlantic herring and Atlantic mackerel fisheries account for the majority of river herring bycatch. Scientific studies estimate that, together, these fisheries may be responsible for more than 70 percent of all river herring bycatch mortality along the coast. This level of unintended catch makes recovery extremely difficult.
Missed Opportunities for Protection
Recognizing this problem, the New England Fishery Management Council (NEFMC) held public hearings on proposed changes to Atlantic herring regulations. Community members from places like South Kingstown, Buzzards Bay, and Mystic spoke out strongly in support of better protections for river herring and shad. Many urged the Council to adopt commonsense measures such as seasonal closures and stronger bycatch limits.
In June 2024, NEFMC agreed that these ideas had merit—but chose to delay action. More than a year later, in December 2025, the Council announced it would finally move forward by addressing these protections through a separate regulatory process, with a decision expected in 2026.
Proof That Reducing Fishing Pressure Works
Recent history shows that reducing industrial fishing pressure can make a real difference. When Atlantic mackerel fishing was effectively shut down in late 2023 due to low quotas—and Atlantic herring fishing followed in early 2025—river herring runs responded.
In Connecticut, river herring returns increased by more than 35 percent in 2024 and 2025, a rebound widely attributed to reduced bycatch from these fisheries. Unfortunately, Rhode Island did not see the same level of improvement, highlighting how uneven and fragile recovery can be.
A Critical Moment in 2026
For 2026, catch limits for both Atlantic herring and Atlantic mackerel have been increased. This raises serious concerns that recent gains for river herring could be reversed unless strong safeguards are put in place.
This year’s river herring spawning runs will be an important test. They will help show whether existing protections are enough—or whether stronger, enforceable limits on bycatch are urgently needed.
Why Public Support Matters
River herring recovery is not just a scientific issue—it’s a public one. These fish connect ocean and river ecosystems, support wildlife, and are part of New England’s natural and cultural heritage. Without continued public pressure, meaningful protections can be delayed or weakened.
Your voice matters. Public engagement helps ensure that decision-makers prioritize healthy ecosystems, sustainable fisheries, and the long-term recovery of river herring.
https://www.thefisherman.com/article/a-surfcasters-quest-to-save-river-herring/#close-modal
https://www.trcp.org/2025/11/25/signs-of-a-river-herring-resurgence-in-connecticut-ignite-hope/
For more information, you can go to: River Herring Bycatch