• Find fish stock resources on conservation websites.fish image by arthur luhnev from Fotolia.com
  
  Resources for coastal fisheries include state websites, fishermen's associations, conservation organizations, private and public business organizations, and federal fisheries programs. Local information is necessary for fishermen, both for fishing grounds and business and legal requirements. Each state has individual regulations that fishermen must abide by. Coastal fisheries are sometimes subject to temporary closures such as in the 2010 Gulf Oil spill case. Membership in a fishermen's association can mean getting firsthand information specific to the locality.
  
  

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

• The aim of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is to act as stewards for fish and wildlife resources in the U.S. The FWS coordinates a Coastal Program, part of which is aimed at maintaining and improving long-term fisheries resources by conserving stocks and researching and evaluating the impact of fisheries on fish species.
  
  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  
  1849 C St. NW
  
  Washington, DC 20240
  
  800-344-WILD
  
  fws.gov/coastal
  
  

Commercial Fishermen of America

• The Commercial Fishermen of America is a nonprofit organization that helps fishermen and promotes sustainable stock management and environmental concerns. It also aims to strengthen community infrastructure and improve communication between fishermen and related parties. It also runs seminars on topics such as aquaculture and commercial fishing. Membership is by subscription.
  
  Commercial Fishermen of America
  
  c/o The Institute for Fisheries Resources
  
  P.O. Box 29196
  
  San Francisco, CA 94129-0196
  
  415-561-FISH ext. 222
  
  cfafish.org
  
  

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Service

• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Fisheries Service offers research and advice on coastal fishery management. Find information on its website about the Gulf Oil spill of 2010 and resultant impact on resources and temporary closure of fisheries in the area.
  
  NOAA Fisheries Service
  
  Partnerships & Communications
  
  1315 East West Highway
  
  Silver Spring, MD 20910
  
  nmfs.noaa.gov
  
  

Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen's Associations

• The Pacific Coast Federation covers the entire west coast of the U.S. and is made up of smaller organizations. The Federation acts as a political force and provides resources for aiding fishermen in their job. Membership subscriptions are required.
  
  Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen's Associations
  
  P.O. Box 29370
  
  San Francisco, CA 94129-0370
  
  415-561-5080
  
  pcffa.org
  
  

Marine Stewardship Council

• An international organization, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) runs a leading certification and labeling program for sustainable seafood. They consult with governments on fisheries methods and certification. Certification with the MSC may improve seafood sales and profits as customers are assured of ecologically sound practices.
  
  Marine Stewardship Council North America Office
  
  2110 N. Pacific St., Suite 102
  
  Seattle, WA 98103
  
  206-691-0188
  
  msc.org