Why was today the last day of the rockfish season?

[reds]

Originally Posted by 5th Tuition

This is not meant to be a smartass question. I really am trying to put all the pieces together and come up with an accurate answer. I'm not posting this on TF because it would cause 15 pages of turmoil. I'm optimistic that on CBA we can get a couple varying opinions and perhaps figure out what DNR and the Atlantic Fisheries Commision are thinking.

This is based TOTALLY on my perspective. I realize that it is biased, which is why I need other opinions.

First, lets start with pre season. DNR adopted restrictions which was suposed to reduce the stress and mortality on breeding cows. I believe the "effort" was dramaticly reduced because of the restrictions. I didn't see nearly the number of boats fishing that I have in other years. Additionally, the rockfish never showed up in large numbers during the "normal" fishing period. Some say the fish arrived early, and we just missed them.

Second, when DNR released the findings of the YOY, we were told that it was once again below average; but not to worry because the stock was healthy. In fact, it was so healthy that Md. had to spend a considerable amount of time contemplating on whether to vote IN FAVOR of increasing the coastal netting quota.

Lastly, I would say the late fall run never really materialized. In years past, I could count on six, seven, or eight rockfish on an average late fall trip. This year, I (and my friends) had a much more difficult time catching two or three large fish per trip. I believe the "take" was dramaticly reduced this fall.

So let's summerize, Less fish were caught in the spring season than in previous years. The stock is in a healthy shape. Less fish were caught in the late fall run.

So why wasn't the season extended for an additional two weeks? Is DNR telling us something by NOT extending the season? Are they saying that the stock IS in trouble?

Don't get me wrong. I'm glad the season wasn't extended. I think there is a problem with the stock. But why would DNR tell us one thing and act in an opposite way? I think the rockfish take by recreational anglers was down this year. This may be due to both restrictions and nature. But if the take was down and the stock is fine, why not extend the season?

How am I looking at this wrong? If we have another banner year like we had two years ago (and DNR extended the season), will DNR again keep the season open so we can continue to "harvest" more large cows?

What's your opinion; be respectfull.
5th (Marty)

p.s. I didn't include the comm. harvest because I don't know enough about it.

I believe the season was extended 2 years ago because the rec quota was not even close to being caught. Why? One reason was thought to be the down economy and high fuel prices kept rec fishermen from fishing.

[B-Faithful]

Originally Posted by reds

I believe the season was extended 2 years ago because the rec quota was not even close to being caught. Why? One reason was thought to be the down economy and high fuel prices kept rec fishermen from fishing.

Also "fishable" days weather-wise limited many weekend days.

I believe DNR is reluctant to extend the season given the low juvenile numbers recorded in recent years and the projected decline of the adult spawning biomass over the next few years. Add the stink over preseason C&R, the massive illegal commercial poaching busts, and some feedback dnr has been getting from anglers, I doubt they would even consider it.

[Skip]

Not sure why the season ends in December. I would love to see it remain open until March 1st. There is limited chances to fish in winter but often a few nice dinner size Rock can be caught. Would love to keep just one.

The gill netters are out there and catch many fish. I did hear the rec. season ends to avoid comm / rec trouble. Only snag there - recs. can still go out and C/R.

You think about it - very few anglers would be out and some years the ramps ice in. The take would be minor. 95% of recs. put their boats away.

Years ago - we could keep them in winter. Not sure how / why the December closure came about.

A lot of the DNR rules seem odd.

[MdCrappie]

Originally Posted by Skip

The gill netters are out there and catch many fish. I did hear the rec. season ends to avoid comm / rec trouble. Only snag there - recs. can still go out and C/R.

The 2010 Commercial Gill net season actually CLOSED 3 days ago. (12/13/10)