Administration restores commercial fishing access in three Pacific marine monuments

A proclamation scheduled for signing Thursday will reopen federally managed commercial fishing in designated portions of three marine national monuments in the Pacific Ocean. The affected areas include sections of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument near Hawaii, the Islands Unit of the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument east of the Philippines, and the Rose Atoll Marine National Monument in American Samoa.

Officials stated the move restores access across approximately 500,000 square miles.

Background on the monuments The three sites are among five marine national monuments established because scientists consider them effective for protecting ocean ecosystems and fish stocks, according to the National Parks Conservation Association. A White House summary reviewed by USA Today said prohibiting commercial fishing in these zones is not necessary for their management, noting that many species are highly migratory and already covered by other federal rules.

The summary also stated that the prior restrictions artificially limited domestic fish supply, increasing U.S. dependence on foreign sources and raising seafood costs for consumers.

Prior actions An administration official told USA Today the policy continues an earlier deregulatory approach. In April 2025 a similar proclamation reopened fishing in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, covering about 400,000 square miles.

During the previous term, fishing was opened in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument before a later reinstatement of the ban. A letter cited in the coverage said removal of U.S. fishing vessels eliminates their role as watchdogs against foreign fishing activity.