You still have time to weigh in on 2 important Fishery issues that are on the agenda of the FWC and Gulf Council Meetings in April. When they ask for Stakeholder comments, remember that means you if you fish in the Gulf. 1) This week the Gulf Council will hold a webinar to discuss and take comments on Amendment 28. Right now the annual quote is split 51% Commercial and 49% recreational. The Decision of whether or not to shift the increases in Red Snapper Quote as it grows to the Recreational sector is scheduled to be made in April. The most recent economic study shows that the economic impact of recreational fishing significantly over the last few years. This would dictate, according to Gulf Council rule, that they shift a percentage of the quote to the recreational anglers. To be certain, the Council`s and our preferred Alternative 5 will not take away any quote from the commercial sector from what they were originally granted when given their individual fishing quotas or catch shares before 2005, which was 51% of 9.12 million pounds. Some angler groups and individuals are requesting Alternative 6 which shifts 10% to the recreational sector whether it is higher or lower than the 9.12 million pounds. You can see all the alternatives at gulfcouncil. Also, the https:/www4.gotomeeting/register/670076495 2) In April`s FWC meeting Commissiners will be deciding on the Gulf Offshore recreational Permit. This permit will provide much-needed reef fish angler data to researchers who provide stock assessments that determine our fishing seasons and bag limits. NOAA has not been willing to do this which has caused regulators to hold back quota, reducing the amount we can catch. We applaud the FWC for taking this big step toward better data and more fair fishing regulations. We encourage you to weigh in on this issue at MyFWC and go to contct to send them your comments. Your Vote Counts Thanks
Posted on: Sat, 15 Mar 2014 16:57:13 +0000
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