The states affected are North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. Most recreational anglers in these states don’t bottom fish in these waters because of the depth and special tackle normally required. However, commercial boats make their living in these waters. Snowy grouper, red hind, and golden tilefish are being over fished and need to be protected, according to the council. These fish are almost exclusively caught by the commercial industry.
My first reaction to this news was disdain. I am not a big fan of MPAs anywhere. However, after reading the press release and doing some homework, my reaction changed to one of curiosity and possibly even support. I don’t know many recreational anglers who regularly fish in waters over 200 feet deep.
It will be interesting to see the outcome here. If we close these areas to bottom fishing, the commercial boats will have to fish in other waters. Would that mean they move closer in to shore to make their living? If so, they will be in contact and conflict with the numerous recreational anglers who regularly fish up to forty miles offshore in water less than 150 feet deep.
While these areas are being protected, is there any discussion to limit or eliminate the commercial catches on these species? If not, other areas of deep bottom will most certainly become over fished. Until we recognize that reducing the harvest has to play a roll in conservation, we, the human race, will never win at this.
Perfect example: Commercial fishing for redfish has been outlawed in Florida for a number of years. However, “by-catch” (those fish accidental caught while fishing for other species) has been allowed. By-catch for redfish is allowed, and that by-catch amounts to several hundred thousand pounds of fish each year. Many commercial people make their living strictly on the by-catch!
My thinking is that scientific, properly thought out areas to protect certain species may be the correct way to manage the resource. But random allocations of “no fish” zones without curtailment of commercial limits is political and does more harm than good.
Just my two cents – write your congress people and express your concerns. Better yet, show up for the hearings. The dates are listed here. One more thought - watch how fast PETA jumps on the band wagon!
