Striped Bass Management: Not Even Close to Over

We had about a week to enjoy the conservation victory for striped bass recovery at ASMFC.  On May 11, the New Jersey Marine Fisheries Council met.  One of the topics was complying with the Emergency Action initiated by the Striped Bass Management board on May 2^nd.  It should be noted that the Emergency Action did nothing to address the bonus tag system.  The impacts on New Jersey would simply be adjusting the slot for the non-bonus tag fishery, just like the rest of the coast.  

After listening to the entire meeting, we are certain of a few things.  First, New Jersey is kicking the can down the road.  The Fisheries Council passed a motion for a striped bass advisory group to review the data and bring it back to them in a “few weeks”.  Note that the deadline for compliance is July 2nd.  Second, New Jersey is going to try and gin up support from other states in their campaign to consider non-compliance.  

This action puts New Jersey on a trajectory to go out of compliance on striped bass.  That would mean a vote to find New Jersey out of Compliance at the August meeting of ASMFC.  If found out of compliance, the Secretary of Commerce would then get a letter from ASMFC which would trigger action from that agency.  The Commerce Department could shut the fishery down in the state.  

So, what can you do to help turn this around?  ASMFC has scheduled four meetings to discuss the Emergency Action.  Attending those meetings and commenting that you support this action is critical.  Here is the link to register for the hearing.  If you signed our letter, take a minute, and attend these virtual hearings.  Be polite and let the commissioners know what state you are from.  

New Jersey is creating a false narrative that the entire community is up in arms over this.  As we know through the thousands and thousands of anglers, guides and business owners who supported our campaign for Addendum II, this is not the case.  

An overwhelming show of support will give the rest of the states a look at the truth.  It isn’t that conservation-minded anglers don’t exist in New Jersey.  Instead, their voices are silenced by a very loud and entrenched minority.  

Public Hearing Webinar Dates:

Wednesday, May 17
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Monday, May 22
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 23
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, May 31
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Click here to register for the opportunity to make your voice heard.