The return of menhaden

[george]

 

[wader]

and they're getting wiped out in the Chesapaeake due to overharvesting for commercial purposes (fish oil, fertilizer, etc.)...

 

[OVERBORED]

I know it's early in the season but where are the bunker?

Jbay has them in just one spot but not thick like previous years. In fact, alot of guys are trolling Mojo's in the bay due to the lack of bait.

Bay water is still cold.......... let's hope it's only because of all the rain and east wind.

 

[george]

and they're getting wiped out in the Chesapaeake due to overharvesting for commercial purposes (fish oil, fertilizer, etc.)...

Actually this video was made to present to the asmfc in an effort to eliminate the reduction boats in the Chesapeake. This shows them what happens when you stop taking millions of metric tons of vital forage from the Maine environment.

 

[OVERBORED]

Same situation with the mid-water Herring trawlers. Remember when Herring could be caught with abundance off any dock on LI? Was once the main forage for the now extinct (or close to it) LI cod.

Once again, the companies that own these boats spent big $$$ to keep their permits.

 

[wader]

Actually this video was made to present to the asmfc in an effort to eliminate the reduction boats in the Chesapeake. This shows them what happens when you stop taking millions of metric tons of vital forage from the Maine environment.

Menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay Face an Uncertain Future

Fishermen, environmentalists, and residents say regulating Virginia’s menhaden fishery is key to the future of critical Chesapeake ecosystems—and economies.

civileats.com

 

[longcast]

I know it's early in the season but where are the bunker?

Jbay has them in just one spot but not thick like previous years. In fact, alot of guys are trolling Mojo's in the bay due to the lack of bait.

Bay water is still cold.......... let's hope it's only because of all the rain and east wind.

I have seen some in the bay further east. Just not up on the surface.

 

[Snapprhead27]

 

[OVERBORED]

 

[george]

I am collaborating with several highly organized groups in Virginia to address this critical issue. These groups have already initiated a lawsuit and are gaining significant momentum in their efforts to protect menhaden populations. It's surprising and concerning that the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) Menhaden Board has been notably absent and seemingly unwilling to address this matter.

While we're not yet at the stage of a full-scale call to action, we are in the planning phases of a broader initiative. In the near future, we aim to coordinate efforts along the entire East Coast to encourage the ASMFC to take decisive action regarding the operations of "reduction boats." These vessels, aptly named, significantly reduce the menhaden population, which is crucial for maintaining the health of our fisheries and the broader marine ecosystem.

The goal is to build awareness and support for the protection of menhaden, which play a vital role in the marine food web. They serve as a primary food source for many species, including striped bass, bluefish, and various seabirds. The health of these populations directly impacts the balance of our coastal ecosystems and the sustainability of our fisheries.

Our success in challenging these practices could set a precedent for other states, including Virginia, to follow. It's particularly concerning that a Canadian company is being allowed to exploit our national resources in this manner. As we continue to organize and build our strategy, we're focusing on creating a strong, unified voice to advocate for the responsible management of our marine resources.

We're not ready for widespread mobilization yet, but we're laying the groundwork for future action. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to develop our plans and strategies to address this important issue.