Rep. Sarah Vance

GOOD NEWS FOR COOK INLET DRIFT FISHERMEN!

After discussions with Arctic District staff, the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment in Homer, and leadership at U.S. Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska, the Coast Guard is proposing a period of non-enforcement for the 2026 season regarding state-registration and tonnage compliance requirements for the Cook Inlet salmon drift fleet.

This means that fishermen and women receiving a U.S. Coast Guard Dockside Safety Examination will not be prevented from receiving a Fishing Vessel Safety Decal solely because they do not have a tonnage certificate, as long as all other safety and required equipment standards are met.

The Coast Guard has also expressed interest in working with the United Cook Inlet Drift Association to establish a practical path toward future compliance.

I appreciate the willingness of our Coast Guard partners to prioritize both maritime safety and the realities facing Alaska's fishing families. Thank you to Captain Joel Carse, Lieutenant Juston Lee, and the entire team for their collaboration and commitment to supporting Cook Inlet fishermen and women.

Please help spread the word so our drift fleet is aware of this important update for the 2026 season. United Cook Inlet Drift Association (UCIDA)