Reauthorizing the Young Fishermen’s Development Act: Investing in Alaska’s Future

Posted on September 15, 2025

Alaska’s fisheries are more than an economic engine; they are the heart of our communities, a vital source of food, and a living link to tradition and stewardship. But we face real challenges: an aging fleet of fishermen, boats, and infrastructure, high costs, and barriers that make it harder for young Alaskans to start fishing.

One powerful opportunity to help is on the horizon: the reauthorization of the Young Fishermen’s Development Act (YFDA), which is the first-ever federal workforce development program for fishermen in the U.S.

Why YFDA Matters

The “greying of the fleet” is real, but so is the energy of the next generation. Young Alaskans want to fish, care for our oceans, and strengthen their communities. YFDA is the only federal program designed specifically to help them do so, offering training, mentorship, and education.

Reauthorizing YFDA through 2031 means:

• Stronger planning and partnerships to expand proven training models

• Equity and opportunity, prioritizing the next generation

• Resilience, giving young fishermen the tools to succeed as business owners, cultural ambassadors, and environmental stewards

AMCC’s Role

AMCC helped lead the national push that created YFDA, working through the Fishing Communities Coalition to ensure young fishermen’s needs were heard in Washington, D.C. Since then, we’ve:

• Built the Young Fishermen’s Network to connect and mentor new entrants.

• Piloted Fishing Fellows, a community-based training program rooted in conservation and local knowledge.

• Supported young fishermen to share their stories and shape fisheries policy directly.

Now, with reauthorization on the table, these efforts can grow into a long-term, nationwide impact.

Your Story Matters

The most powerful voices for this work are the fishermen themselves. If you’re just starting out, working towards joining a fleet, or are a career fisherman, we want to hear from you.

• What inspired you to fish?

• What barriers have you faced?

• What future do you hope to see for Alaska’s fisheries?

  
  

Your experiences bring this policy to life and show why programs like YFDA are so critical. Reach out to us at fish@akmarine.org to share your story.

Alaska’s Leaders Are On Board

Alaska’s congressional delegation is championing YFDA’s reauthorization. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, along with Congressman Nick Begich, have all stepped forward as leaders in this effort. Their bipartisan support sends a clear message: Alaska’s future depends on empowering the next generation of fishermen.

Senator Sullivan, the bill’s Senate sponsor, called YFDA “a program focused on reversing the greying of the fleet, supporting our many coastal communities, and empowering our fishermen to continue sustainably harvesting our world-class seafood.” Senator Murkowski, a co-sponsor, has emphasized the urgency of reducing barriers for young entrants, and Congressman Begich has taken the lead in the House, sponsoring companion legislation.

Looking Ahead

Reauthorizing the Young Fishermen’s Development Act isn’t just about preserving tradition; it’s about investing in opportunity, resilience, and leadership. With the proper support, young Alaskans are ready to carry our fisheries forward while building something even stronger.

At AMCC, we believe this is a hopeful moment. By working together, uplifting young voices, and supporting YFDA’s reauthorization, we can ensure Alaska’s fisheries remain healthy, inclusive, and rooted in community values for generations to come.