Current fisheries regulations don't work. Here is my framework

[Ttmako]

I spent some time on the MAMFC website and came across a guide to navigating the council process.
According to the guide there are a set of 10 national standards that all fisheries management plans must comply.
We have already proven I'm not an English major. I'm also not a lawyer. But in reading the 10 commandments, its very easy to see, the current regulations violate the national standards.
Here are 2 prime examples.
Conservation and management measures shall:
#4 Not discriminate between residents of different states; any allocation of privileges must be fair and equitable.
Is fishing a privilege or a right as a US citizen? That's pretty tough language.
Moreover, current regulations do discriminate between NY and NJ and the allocation process is not fair and equitable.
#8 Take into account the importance of fishery resources to fishing communities to provide for sustained participation of, and minimize advsere impacts, to such communities.
Having restrictions so tight that charter and headboats can't fish for certain species due to arbitrary seasons and making bag limits so small (winter flounder) anglers no longer use for hire boats. Increasing regulations are on the verge of destroying this community.
The guide to navigating the process is actually pretty good. I encourage folks to go to MAMFC.com and have a look.

[Ttmako]

Just read a little more and gleamed the following:
Since 2003, the recreational harvest limit for fluke was reduced 24.4. % to 7.38m pounds.
In 2003 anglers were allowed to catch 8 fluke at 16.5".
Commercial fishermen landings were also reduced 25% to 11.07m pounds.
However, they never had a minimum size increase. The commercial size remains at 14".

The seabass limits went from 25 fish at 12" in 2003 to 15 fish @ 12.5" in 2015.
Although the MAMFC admits overfishing is not happening and the fishery is not overfished, they increased size limits, reduced bag limits and severely restricted the open season.
Why? Can anybody answer that question? I'm confused, frustrated and disappointed in these people.

[Ttmako]

I just dropped a note to the MAMFC to voice my concerns and feel good for trying to make some effort.
I hope others will follow suit.

[AndyS]

I want my offshore sea bass back. All winter with a 25 fish per man bag limit.
BUT NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, that is way too much to ask for.