Looks like we should have taken 3 @ 19"

[Ttmako]

Originally Posted by togzilla

This is not about managing the species but managing the anglers who target them out of existence. They know exactly what they are doing. How many party boats and charter boats will call it quits after this season under the proposed 3 fish at 18 inches? What are they going to fish for after Sept. 4th? Once the boats, marina, tackle stores call it quits they are not coming back. I'd love to be a fly on the wall at one of these ASMFC meetings when it is just those pricks talking amongst themselves and patting themselves on the back for slowly and systematically destroying the recreational fishery.

This is an excellent point and one that I hadn't really thought about. I think you may be onto something here.
That being said, there are some ASMFC members who are truly recreational fisherman. Yes, some of them are either Environmental zealots or commercial oriented. I think we should take a look at the committees underneath the council, specifically, the SSC and TC. These are more than likely environmental lunatics with an agenda closely matched to what you said. If you dig deep enough, I'm sure Pew and the EDF are providing some sort of funding to them.

[dales529]

Originally Posted by Flukemeister1

What are the consequences of being out of compliance?

July 1 start date, 2 fish at 20" and I believe a 59 day season

[Ry609]

Originally Posted by dales529

July 1 start date, 2 fish at 20" and I believe a 59 day season

I'd be curious to see who would be sent here to enforce that given the NJDEP's position on the matter. Both of these options suck, but I think I would've rather had the longer season than the 1" less size if the bag limit was going to stay at 3.

[henro]

Originally Posted by dales529

July 1 start date, 2 fish at 20" and I believe a 59 day season

[Ttmako]

Given the hard work and effort The NJ DEP put into this debacle and the confusion this is causing to recreational anglers, I would venture many DEP officers maybe somewhat more lenient with this years rules.
Just my guess.

[Ttmako]

For the record,
I don't think we should have stuck with 3@19".
This was certainly worth a fight and the effort many put forth.
This still isn't over.
There is a rather lengthy protocol that needs to be followed when out of compliance.

[frugalfisherman]

Either way i,m not throwing back a fluke alive!!

[Flygaff]

What planet do these people come from. There is so much data to support an increase in recreational fishing and they just don't get it. It has to be the commercial lobbies that fuel these issues. I am so fed up. For me. I pay taxes , I served my country in the military. If I want to keep fish. I WILL. I encourage everyone else to follow suit. How much damage to the environment could I possibly cause if I bring home 8 fluke, or 18 Sea Bass? This is just crazy. I have seen the commercials several times dump their nets. Dead fish as far as you can see. How about limit them to pounds caught and no throw backs. If all the come up with are mullet, than that is what they get. They throw back fish because they can continue fishing and catch a more valuable species. I am beginning to hate my own country due to the corruption that is so rampant.

Just my 2 cents. of course it is now only worth 0.002 cents.

Good luck out there everyone and be safe

[Abrasion]

If you operate a charter boat, 3@18" and a shorter season just killed you. 3@19 with a longer season made more sense. Let's be honest, this outcome is a failure all around.

[captmark]

Gentleman, look at this way, Fluke 3 @ 19 or 18" and the Sea Bass being cut to 5 fish. Take a look at the docks in your area, more and more head boats are being sold, more charter boats are leaving (us included) if you need proof just in Point Pleasant alone, Cock Robin sold, Bogans fleet reduced, the Islander sold many other 6 packs have either folded or sold yeah some new ones have started but it is a fact they dont care about this industry that helps support other local businesses. Many of us filled out the survey that they wanted to see if the cut backs would hurt us and local businesses, I guess that went in the trash.
Just my 1 cent oh they took the other cent