Monday, February 16, 2026

Trump opens up commercial fishing in Atlantic marine national monument

President Trump has once again made a bold move in his efforts to boost the American economy and support the fishing industry. On Friday afternoon, he issued a proclamation allowing for commercial fishing in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument, a nearly 5,000 square mile area located southeast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

This decision has been met with praise from fishermen and industry leaders who have long been advocating for access to this rich fishing ground. The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument was established by President Obama in 2016, under the Antiquities Act, with the intention of protecting the diverse marine life and ecosystems in the area. However, this designation also meant that commercial fishing was prohibited in the monument, causing frustration and economic strain for many fishermen.

President Trump’s proclamation to open up the monument to commercial fishing is a welcome relief for these fishermen, who have been struggling to make ends meet due to the restrictions. The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts area is known for its abundance of species such as dolphin, whale, tuna, and swordfish, making it a prime location for commercial fishing. With this new opportunity, fishermen can once again access these waters and provide for their families and communities.

This decision also aligns with President Trump’s vision of promoting American industries and creating jobs. The fishing industry is a vital part of our economy, providing employment for thousands of Americans and contributing billions of dollars to our GDP. By opening up the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument to commercial fishing, President Trump is not only supporting the livelihoods of fishermen but also boosting the economy as a whole.

Furthermore, this proclamation does not compromise the protection of the marine life and ecosystems in the area. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will continue to monitor and regulate fishing activities in the monument to ensure sustainable practices are followed. This means that the monument will still serve its purpose of preserving the diverse marine life and habitats, while also allowing for responsible commercial fishing.

President Trump’s decision has also been met with support from local and state officials, who understand the importance of the fishing industry to their communities. Senator Susan Collins of Maine, a state heavily reliant on the fishing industry, stated, “This is a victory for Maine’s fishermen and coastal communities who have been struggling under the restrictions of the monument designation.” She also emphasized the importance of balancing conservation efforts with the needs of the fishing industry.

In addition to supporting the fishing industry, this proclamation also highlights President Trump’s commitment to listening to the concerns of local communities and addressing their needs. The decision to open up the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument to commercial fishing was made after extensive consultation with fishermen, industry leaders, and local officials. This shows that the Trump administration values the input of those directly affected by their policies and is willing to take action to support their livelihoods.

In conclusion, President Trump’s proclamation to allow for commercial fishing in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument is a positive and necessary step towards supporting the fishing industry and boosting the economy. This decision strikes a balance between conservation efforts and the needs of the fishing industry, while also demonstrating the administration’s commitment to listening to and addressing the concerns of local communities. With this new opportunity, fishermen can once again thrive and contribute to the prosperity of our nation.

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