IFQ April 2024

HALIBUT

Acitvity for halibut QS has increased in anticipation of the 2024 season. Interest has been highest in 3A, with additional sales negotiations for 2C and 3B. Area 4 continues to lag. Availability in most areas remains high There is some optimism regarding early season ex-vessel price. If price strengthens, we expect the market for halibut QS to remain steady.

SABLEFISH

As of this writing, the 2024 QSU:IFQ ratios and permits are expected to be released at any time. However, a dark cloud remains over the sablefish IFQ fishery, and there has been very little market activity as a result. With increased harvesting costs and historically low prices, the margins leave little room for purchasing quota, and we expect sales to remain limited until that changes.