Your fisheries management and policy update

by American Sportfishing Association 11 Apr 16:14 UTC

ASA Participates in Recreational Salmon Season Setting Process.
Last week, ASA's Larry Phillips attended the Pacific Fishery Management Council's spring 2023 meeting, providing input on this year's west coast salmon season. In 2023, the west coast salmon seasons range from longer coho and pink salmon seasons to a full season closure in California. Larry highlighted the PFMC's final decision on our blog! Read here

ASA to U.S. Government: Support Everglades Restoration!
ASA was proud to join conservation partners, including the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, in voicing the importance of protecting and restoring America's Everglades. ASA co-signed two letters, one of which went to congressional appropriators, calling for a $97 million increase in the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Program budget, which manages Everglades restoration projects. The second letter was sent to USACE, reiterating the importance of Lake Okeechobee for Everglades restoration. Learn more

83%

What It Is: The percentage of California rockfish that survive barotrauma injuries when returned within 2 minutes of being caught.
Why It Matters: Opportunities to recreationally harvest rockfish on the west coast have been reduced for the conservation needs of several rockfish species. Anglers can use descending devices to return rockfish in a timely manner, increasing their survival chances!

West Coast States Limit 2023 Rockfish Harvests.
Last week, California, Oregon and Washington announced a reduction of bottom fishing for the 2023 season to improve the conservation of rockfish that experience barotrauma when caught. While we are disappointed, ASA believes that recreational anglers should take the lead in curbing barotrauma by using descending devices. Learn more

Urge Your Senators to Support Outdoor Recreation!
As you know, the America's Outdoor Recreation Act was recently reintroduced in the U.S. Senate. We urge you to use the Keep America Fishing Action Alert portal to urge your Senators to support this important legislation that expands and enhances outdoor recreation opportunities on federal lands. Send a message here!

The Washington Post: Snot otters and other wildlife are not rock stars. Should they be saved?

Spectrum News: Florida voters could decide to add fishing and hunting to state constitution in 2024

Associated Press: California seeks federal help for salmon fishers facing ban

On the latest episode, ASA's Connor Bevan highlights aquatic invasive species (AIS) management and a recent report ASA and several other organizations released on how to prevent, control and mitigate AIS. AIS alter natural ecosystems and degrade waterways. We are committed to reducing their impact.

>>LISTEN HERE<<