WE HAVE SEEN THE ENEMY AND IT IS US

April 3, 2008 - Let me preface my remarks by welcoming you to the 2008 edition of The Saltwater Scene. While perusing the numerous articles in trade magazines, aquatic marine reports, and migratory fish demographics during this past winter, it looks like the Massachusetts fly angler can expect another stellar season.

Upon my research I came upon a very fascinating blurb in a recent edition on “Trade Tackle World” that I felt was worth sharing with the class. I have often taken the side of the commercial “highly regulated” fisherman when entering discussions regarding recs vs. coms only to be beaten down by fellow recreational fly anglers. While still on the cusp of season and nothing noteworthy to report, take a minute to read the following and draw your own conclusions.

“A benchmark striper study for the Atlantic State Marine Fisheries Commission concluded that striped bass are not overfished, and overfishing is not occurring. The assessment estimates that the striper population remains at a high level. The population of spawning female fish weighs an estimate 55 million pounds – well above the target of 38.6 million pounds.

Recreational fisherman took nearly three times more bass than commercial fisherman in 2006.

The total striped bass harvest (commercial and recreational) was estimated at 3.82 million fish, a 46 per cent increase from 2002 when new regulations were enacted.

The commercial harvest of 1.05 million fish was dominated by Maryland’s commercial fleet, which makes up 62% of the total commercial landings by number in 2006.

Coast-wide, recreational fisherman took 2.77 million bass.

Commercial discards in 2006 were estimated at 216,753 fish. Recreational discard deaths were estimated at 2.07 million fish.

Combined, the number of stripers killed intentionally and unintentionally by recreational fisherman accounted for 79 per cent of the bass killed in 2006.

Based on advise from scientists, regulators have recommended maintaining the status in fishing limits this season.”

RC AND MR. BONES
R.C. Carusi of Oxford, MA put in a stint on Long Island in the Bahamas this winter and was rewarded with some pretty decent bonefishing despite having to deal with 25-30 mph wind most of the time. R.C. was guided by local legend, Docky Smith who he strongly recommends if visiting this stunning island. Carusi also included this comment in his e-mail… “Thanks for helping me with my interest in the sport, I am addicted!”  

R.C. you’re quite welcome and thank you for your continued support.  

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB