December 2009 American Sportfishing Association Member Update





South Atlantic Red Snapper Fishery Closed
On December 3, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced an interim rule that will prohibit commercial and recreational anglers from fishing for red snapper in federal waters off North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and the Atlantic coast of Florida. The six-month closure became effective on January 4, 2010, and can be extended an additional six months if NMFS deems it necessary. The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council requested the fisheries service implement this interim rule while the council explores long-term measures to address the critical condition of red snapper.

Prior to the final announcement, ASA provided comments on the proposed rule expressing its concerns with the proposal, especially given the potential economic impact it would have on the recreational fishing sector and the important role that recreational anglers play in fisheries conservation, and urging NMFS to find a balance between fishing restrictions necessary for the conservation of the fishery and economic impact. ASA continues to address this problem and will soon announce a multi-step campaign that seeks to protect both the fishery resource and recreational fishing opportunity.

ASA Testifies in Support of National Fish Habitat Conservation Act
On December 3, ASA Vice President Gordon Robertson testified before the United States Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works’ Subcommittee on Water and Wildlife in support of S. 1214, the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act (NFHCA). The next week, the Committee reported out the bill with a substitute amendment that included minor technical changes. The bill will next be voted on by the full Senate at a date to be determined. ASA continues to work with other members of the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act (NFHCA) legislative team to encourage House of Representatives members to support the companion bill in the House, H.R. 2565, and to seek additional sponsorship. In December, two additional House members signed on to the bill, including the first Republican – Rep. Bill Cassidy (R-LA). To ensure this bill is passed, please send a letter to your House of Representatives member today asking for him or her to support the NFHCA. Additional co-sponsors are needed for this bill to succeed. For more information, visit ASAfishing.org. The foundation for the NFHCA is the National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP). ASA Vice President Gordon Robertson sits on the NFHAP Board.