One of the largest impacts on our local fisheries has been the closure of many species of offshore bottom fishing. The closure that’s impact was the greatest among recreational fishermen was the Black Sea Bass closure. The impact has been so huge due to the ability to catch this species in shallow waters, which allows a much large segment of local anglers to target them.
We’ve seen a decrease in the number of offshore reports on our site early in the season because people want a back up plan if the trolling is not working. Most are not willing to go out and take an early season trip without being able to have bottom fishing as a back up plan. The local tackle shops have also felt the impact of these closures. As the list of species that are off limits has closed, the more vocal anglers have become. Several people became involved years ago as the regulations were being discussed and thankfully many of them have kept the rest of us informed.
I realize this press release has been posted on the site in many places, but we wanted to make sure and get it in front of everyone one more time before the deadline for public input has passed. The following thread was started on the site by Captain Mark Brown. Please take a moment to read it and get informed. I would also like to thank Mark for his dedication and for sharing what he learns with all of us. http://old.charlestonfishing.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=134901
Increases to Black Sea Bass Annual Catch Limits Under Consideration
Council plans special meeting via webinar May 13, 2013 to address increase; public comment open
Fishermen eagerly waiting for the black sea bass season to open in offshore waters on June 1, 2013 have an opportunity to comment on management measures that may increase the length of this year?s fishing season. The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council is currently accepting public comment on measures to increase the Annual Catch Limit (ACL) for both commercial and recreational fishermen. A recent stock assess