The governors of California, Oregon, and Washington have asked the U.S. federal government to provide financial aid for the states’ struggling commercial West Coast Pacific albacore troll/hook-and-line fishery.

Last year was the fishery’s worst performing season in 30 years, California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a recent statement. The fishery generated USD 9.5 million (EUR 9.3 million) in ex-vessel value in 2024, notably lower than the five-year average of USD 24.6 million (EUR 24 million).

Now, Newsom, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, and Washington Governor Jay Inslee have written a joint letter to U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo requesting a fishery disaster determination for the albacore fishery, which would open the door for federal financial aid for fishers and affiliated businesses.

Read more on Seafood Source.