[skatemaster]

I don't think that any of this is past the discussion stage, but I understand that this is what the states will be contemplating this year.

Endorsed the 42 percent coastal commercial increase with no recreational increase, with only New Jersey and Maine dissenting.

The Chesapeake Bay states take a conservation equivalency reduction in quota in order to keep 18-inchers.

There could be a move to disallow the NJ slot bass.

Opening of the EEZ to striped bass fishing under state regulations was endorsed by a 6 to 5 vote.

(This post edited by skatemaster on 02/27/2003)

 

[skatemaster]

Opening the EEZ means that comms as well as recs get a shot.

 

[skatemaster]

I learned something interesting about the NJ slot limit (recs get 1 28"+ and 1 24-28" slot). Most other states have a 28" limit and then a 20" limit for the "producer" grounds, which are spawning areas. Since NJ doesn't have "producer" grounds, they got the extra slot fish. They are now trying to eliminate the difference in size limits between producer and coastal areas and go for a straight 24" limit. NY plans to eliminate the 20" limit in it's producer grounds (Hudson) and just have a straight 28" limit.

(This post edited by skatemaster on 02/27/2003)