AK SB161

Prohibits the use of trawl or dredge fishing gear that makes substantial bottom contact with the seafloor in Alaska state waters, effective January 1, 2028

Requires the Department of Fish and Game to conduct a comprehensive study on the health of seafloor ecosystems and fish habitat in state waters

Department must submit a report to the legislature by January 1, 2027, analyzing how bottom trawling has affected and may continue to affect fishery resources and marine ecosystems

Report must include 10-year bycatch data showing quantities of fish by species taken by bottom trawl and dredge gear

Report must provide recommendations on whether bottom trawling should be prohibited or limited for maximum public benefit and sustained fishery yield