Though the Magnuson Act of 1976 looked good on paper, its vague phrasing and numerous loopholes have allowed overfishing to continue unabated in coastal waters. Specifically, it has failed to emphasize the long-term ecological health of fisheries and allowed short-term economic forces to drive the decision-making process. If the Magnuson Act is to fulfill its broken promise of conserving and managing fisheries, it must be reformed.