Menhaden cap approved

[TRIGGERFISH]

Read this:www.cbf.org

[MDFisher]

I wonder if limiting the catch for each of the next 5 years to the average caught from 2000 - 2004 will help the fishery that much? If it took multiple years to notice a problem and address it wouldn't it seem that the average catch they're allowing is still high enough that it will continue to damage the Menhaden population? Just a thought while I'm sitting at school bored.

[Lipyourown]

The cap is a bad joke, it makes it appear like they are doing something responsible but they are gonna go about raping the bay as they have, just not more than they have.

[combatcatcher]

I understand that ASMFC is doing it's best to help in the fight but the fact is not enough is being done. From what Ive read and by no means am I an expert you cant manange a predatory species properly without managing it's prey. The massive catche's of menhaden definatly have something to do with the escalating prices in blue crabs. Maryland DNR reports show that contents of Rockfish bycatch contain 70% bluecrab. maybe thats why were paying 130 dollars a bushel in some areas. New England where Menhaden used to thrive havent seen one in over 10 years. this problem didnt start yesterday and I believe imediate action needs to be taken to save the menhaden the rockfish and the bluecrab. The majority of resident stripers in the bay are skinny and sick from a diesease callled mycobacteriosis which consumes internal organs and eats flesh. If this species was on land and this was happening there would be a uproar. Anyways the point of my babble is too get involved and help save our bay. Just because we had an awesome spring run dosent mean the stock is safe. There are numerous groups that you can donate to, give time to, or calll youre senetors and congressman about the issue. Its the facts folk's our Bay needs more protection and it needs it know.