The FMP adopts existing state registration areas within the BSAI fishery management unit. Registration areas may be further divided into fishing districts, subdistricts, and sections for purposes of management and reporting. State regulations require vessels to register for fishing in these areas, and may require vessels to register for specific districts within a registration area. Registration areas may be designated as either exclusive or nonexclusive. Vessels can register for any one exclusive area but cannot fish in any other exclusive area during the registration year.
Vessels can fish any or all nonexclusive areas.
The FMP recognizes the current state regulations that prohibit commercial fishing for king crab in waters within 10 miles of mean lower low water around St. Lawrence, King, and Little Diomede Islands. The FMP also recognizes the state closure to protect the Norton Sound subsistence king crab fishery. The state may designate new closed water areas or expand or reduce existing state closed water areas in order to meet state subsistence requirements. Gear Placement and Removal - Placement of unbaited gear, with doors secured open on the fishing grounds before and after a season, has been allowed within certain limits. Gear Storage - Crab pots are generally stored on land or in designated storage areas at sea.