Conference wahoo::fishing

746.0. "Bunker Info Wanted" by NYJMIS::HORWITZ (Beach Bagel) Wed Jun 01 1988 10:05

    Well, NJ has another problem/issue facing its saltwater anglers.
    After years of negotiations between the sport fishermen, the Menhaden
    (bunker, pogy) commercials, and the state Marine Fisheries Council,
    we thought we had an agreement calling for the elimination of purse
    seining for bunker within 1.2 miles of the beach- /jetty- fronts.
    At a meeting last week, the paid lobbyist for the (all) out of state
    Bunker boats had convinced several members of the fishery council
    to support a reduction of the limit from 1.2 miles, to 0.9 miles.
    
    We understand that currently several states to our south have 3
    mile limits. I am curious to find out what the regulations are in
    the New England states.
    
    I should point out that in our original agreement, there is a (mutually
    agreed upon) exception for the local bait fishery.
    
    Rich

    I guess there is none in mass. Last year the pogy boats (pures siene)
    were right in Boston harbor not 100ft from the jetties, shore etc.
    
    This killed the great bluefishing we had been having. No bait=No
    Bluefish!!!!! Sounds like we need some laws up here.
    
    
    Capt. Codfish

    Looks like this issue is just about settled. At the July 12 meeting
    of the NJ Marine Fisheries Commission, it was decided to maintain
    the present arrangement, keeping the bunker boats 1.2 miles off
    the Beach. These regulations now are subject to public hearings.
    Hopefully, these will be scheduled like the 7/12 meeting: at 3PM
    on a weekday (don't you just love politicians ;-) )
    
    ***It's amazing what can happen when sports anglers can get themselves
    organized to protect the sport and the environment!!!!!!!
    
    Bagel