NMFS issues this final rule to provide a regulatory framework for implementing Area 2A Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan (CSP) allocations to the Pacific Coast, limited entry primary sablefish fishery. This final rule allows halibut taken incidentally in the primary longline sablefish fishery to be retained and landed, and provides a framework for the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) to recommend halibut catch limits for the sablefish fishery when a halibut quota is available to that fishery. The CSP provides for an incidental halibut retention in the limited entry, primary fixed gear sablefish fishery north of Pt. Chehalis, WA in years when the Area 2A total allocable catch (TAC) of Pacific halibut exceeds 900,000 lb (408.2 metric tons (mt)). The Pacific halibut TAC exceeded that amount for the first time in 2001. This action provides the regulatory framework that carries out the intent of the Council that the limited entry primary sablefish fishery be provided an incidental halibut retention allowance under this condition.