Commerce Department Announces 2026 Regional Fishery Management Council Appointments
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick finalized this year's appointments to the Regional Fishery Management Councils (RFMC). The recreational fishing community congratulates the newly appointed and returning council members and is encouraged by the appointment of several highly qualified leaders with strong recreational fisheries backgrounds. These include Paul Risi of New York, Warren Elliott of Pennsylvania, Dave Blazer of Maryland, Rob Southwick of Florida, Anthony Overton of Alabama, Ed Walker of Florida and Kesley Banks of Texas.
The RFMCs play a critical role in managing the nation's marine fisheries and helping ensure healthy fish populations, sustainable fishing opportunities and vibrant coastal communities. These appointments reflect the Administration's commitment to ensuring knowledgeable, experienced conservation-minded individuals help to shape federal fisheries policy. The councils oversee recreational saltwater fisheries that support more than 15 million American anglers and contribute over $145 billion in sales and nearly 700,000 jobs annually.
"Secretary Lutnick's appointments recognize several highly qualified individuals with the experience and expertise needed to help shape the future of our nation's marine fisheries," said Jeff Angers, president of the Center for Sportfishing Policy. "Effective fisheries management depends on experienced council members who understand the importance of conservation, sound science and public access. We congratulate the newly appointed and returning council members and look forward to working with them to advance practical, conservation-focused management that expands access and opportunity for America's anglers."
"Service on a Regional Fishery Management Council carries an enormous responsibility. Council members are entrusted with helping ensure that our nation's marine fisheries remain healthy and sustainable while providing meaningful access to our public trust fisheries resources," said Chris Horton, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy for the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation. "We congratulate the new and returning appointees and look forward to working alongside them to advance science-based policies that strengthen conservation and expand opportunities for current and future generations of anglers."
Mr. Risi was reappointed to represent New York on the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. A lifelong angler and charter captain, he brings more than four decades of experience in recreational fishing and fisheries management at both the state and federal levels.
Mr. Elliott was appointed to represent Pennsylvania on the Mid-Atlantic Council. He previously served on the Council and chaired its Ecosystem and Ocean Planning Committee, bringing valuable institutional knowledge and a long-standing commitment to fisheries conservation and outdoor recreation.
Mr. Blazer was appointed to represent Maryland on the Mid-Atlantic Council. A former director with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, he brings extensive experience in fisheries management, boating and natural resource conservation, along with a collaborative approach to balancing recreational and commercial fishing interests.
Mr. Southwick was appointed to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council. Founder and president of Southwick Associates, he is nationally recognized for his expertise in recreational fishing participation, economic research and the contributions of the outdoor recreation economy to local communities and businesses.
Dr. Overton was reappointed to the Gulf of America Fishery Management Council. A lifelong recreational angler and accomplished fisheries scientist, he has served on numerous state, federal and international fisheries bodies and brings decades of experience in marine fisheries management.
Mr. Walker was reappointed to represent Florida on the Gulf Council. A Gulf Coast charter captain for more than 35 years, he has extensive experience across recreational, for-hire and commercial fisheries and has served on numerous Gulf Council advisory panels.
Dr. Banks was reappointed to represent Texas on the Gulf Council. A marine scientist and active recreational angler, Banks brings expertise in fisheries conservation, habitat management and Gulf recreational fisheries through her work on multiple advisory committees.