Three Tons of Striped Bass Seized

What do you get if you are caught twice during the same week for illegal commercial fishing for striped bass in Maryland? A $500 fine ($250 if you plead guilty before trial). When you can get even $2 to $3 per pound on a haul of three tons or more, it doesn't take long to see why some folks are willing to take the chance. The catch was seized as well, but the damage to the fishery was already done. Check out this article via the Baltimore Sun. Heads up courtesy of Stripers Forever - Fighting for Game fish Status for Rockfish everywhere. Join up - it's free!

**Of course, all parties are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Stripers Forever: 2008 Survey Results

The annual Stripers Forever fishing survey is tabulated and the results show some disturbing facts:

1. In 2008 59% of the anglers indicated that the quality of fishing for stripers was worse or much worse – down from 43% in 2007. Only 21% felt that it was improved, compared to 34% in 2007.
2. (58%) reported the average size of the stripers they caught was declining, compared to a statistically similar 57% in 2007.
3. Support for a slot limit to take the pressure off large breeders crept up two percentage points to 76%, a new high. Members in every state widely favored a slot limit in our survey. Many respondents cited the success of Texas and Florida, which employ both slot limits and game fish status to manage red drum and snook.
4. An increasing number of professional fishing guides are reporting that their businesses are being adversely affected by the smaller number of striped bass generally available.

As for Stripers Forever's mission of game fish status for the striped bass, 87% of those surveyed want at least 50% of the commercial catch reserved for conservation – same as in 2007 - and not assigned to increased recreational bag limits. More facts and figures reside on the Stripers Forever Website. While you are visiting with them take a moment to take action.