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CCA insists Council take on Gulf shrimp trawl bycatch
 

HOUSTON, TX – Coastal Conservation Association is insisting that the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council take action at its meeting next week to rein in shrimp trawl bycatch to avoid needlessly penalizing recreational anglers with lower red snapper catch limits.(MORE)

FWC REVISES HUNTING AND FISHING RULES

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC’s) first meeting of 2006 convened under the new chairman, Rodney Barreto, and vice chairman, David K. Meehan, Wednesday in Gainesville. It adjourned Thursday after Commissioners approved numerous revisions to Florida’s hunting and fishing rules....(More)

TAGGED FISH MEAN CASH FOR LUCKY CRAPPIE ANGLERS

Anglers on lakes Dora and Beauclair in Lake County could win up to $50 if they catch a crappie, or speckled perch, that has a bright orange tag inserted near its top fin. The tagged fish are part of a joint research study of the two lakes’ crappie populations by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the University of Florida Fisheries Department....(More)

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION WINS AGAIN AS COURT REJECTS LAWSUIT FILED BY COMMERCIAL NETTING INTERESTS

 CIRCUIT JUDGE UPHOLDS FWC RULES IMPLEMENTING THE CONSTITUTIONAL GILLNET BAN

On February 3, Leon County Circuit Judge Janet E. Ferris ruled that the FWC regulations implementing the ban on gillnets “are a valid exercise of the Commission’s constitutionally delegated authority and that there is a rational basis for their provisions.” ...(MORE)

Judge Slams Door on Second Grouper Gambit

FORT MYERS, FL – Strike two.

On the heels of his decision to nullify an interim rule closing all grouper fishing in the Gulf of Mexico for November and December, a U.S. District Court judge has flatly denied a request by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to reconsider his decision.

 United States District Court Judge John E. Steele ruled earlier this month that NMFS had acted “arbitrarily [and] capriciously” in promulgating an interim rule that would have shut down fishing for 16 species of ...(More)

CCA Helps Florida Win With Grouper

In a huge win for the state of Florida and for saltwater anglers, United States District Court Judge John E. Steele has ruled that the National Marine Fisheries Service, in passing an interim rule closing all grouper fishing in the Gulf of Mexico for November and December, acted “arbitrarily, capriciously, [and] in an abuse of discretion...in promulgating the Interim Rule to Reduce the Recreational Harvest of Gulf of Mexico Red Grouper…”(More)

CCA BATTLES OVER FEDERAL GULF GROUPER REGULATIONS

A.  INTRODUCTION

The “interim” rule adopted by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on August 4, which prohibits the recreational take of all grouper species in the entire Gulf in November and December, has infuriated and alienated more recreational anglers than any previous federal action that we have seen in our twenty years of involvement in fisheries conservation...(More)

CCA Files Suit Over Grouper Closure

HOUSTON , TX – Coastal Conservation Association has filed a lawsuit in federal district court in Fort Myers , Florida , challenging the authority of the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to close the entire grouper fishery in the Gulf of Mexico .

“NMFS’ action to close the entire grouper fishery is illegal and unnecessary to conserve and maintain red grouper in the Gulf,” said David Howton, chairman of CCA Florida.....(More)

Blue catfish receives world record status from the IGFA

DANIA BEACH , Fla. --- The International Game Fish Association (IGFA), the organization which among its many duties maintains world records for both freshwater and saltwater game fishes, has approved a 124 pound blue catfish caught in mid May by Tim Pruitt of Alton , Ill.

            Pruitt and the catfish, which was caught in the...(More)

COUPLE ARRESTED ON CHARGES OF FEEDING ALLIGATORS

On Friday, July 22, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers arrested a Charlotte County couple for deliberately feeding an alligator; an offense that the agency’s alligator experts say is often associated with fatal attacks against humans...(More)

Monthly Fish Story Contest -- Where Everyone Wins

How To Keep Cool in Summers Sweltering Heat

America’s Anglers and Boaters Score Major Conservation Victory

July 29, 2005—ALEXANDRIA, VA. After nearly two years of Congressional action and three years of strategic planning and consensus building by leading angling and boating organizations, the most significant legislation for sportfishing and boating since 1984 is now waiting for President Bush’s signature. The centerpiece of the legislation is the successful capture of the federal fuel tax on motorboats and small engines which will now be dedicated to sportfish restoration, angler and boating access and boating safety. The Act will consolidate the receipts of the new Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and distribute them according to a simpler and more equitable formula supported by the American Sportfishing Association and a coalition of 33 other fishing and boating organizations....(More)

ICAST 2005 New Product Best of Show Competition Goes to Shimano

July 21, 2005—LAS VEGAS, NV—The Shimano Torsa Reels won the Overall Best of Show Award, and Best of Show for the Reel category, in the ICAST 2005 New Product Showcase awards competition. The company also took top honors for the new Trevala Jigging Rods in the Rod category...(More)

CCA FLORIDA BLASTS FEDERAL ACTION ON GROUPER REGULATIONS AS IRRESPONSIBLE AND ARROGANT

The Coastal Conservation Association of Florida blasted the new interim regulations imposed by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on recreational grouper fishermen in the Gulf.

“The feds just tossed the State of Florida ’s recommendation into the trash,” said Ted Forsgren, CCA Florida Executive Director. “Their action is irresponsible and arrogant.”

            “The major problem in Gulf red grouper management has been...(More)

Naples accountant wins fifth annual Rolex/IGFA Inshore Championship

First time any angler has double slammed in tournament

ISLAMORADA, Fla.  – Robert Collins, caught and released two tarpon, two permit and a single bonefish Wednesday, adding to earlier catches of reds and snook, to take grand champion honors with a record two slams at the three-day Rolex/International Game Fish Association Inshore Championship Tournament in the Florida Keys.
                 Collins, a Naples, Fla., accountant, was one of 34 anglers who participated in the fifth annual invitational event made up of tournament champions. Each entrant won...(More)

NEW MILITARY GOLD SPORTSMAN’S LICENSE AVAILABLE JULY 1

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is providing service men and women a new way to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities.

Beginning July 1, the FWC will offer a Military Gold Sportsman’s License to active duty and retired military that are stationed in Florida or have lived in the state for six months and claim Florida as their primary residence. The reduced-fee annual license ($20) offers the same privileges as the traditional Gold Sportsman’s License ($83.50). It includes hunting, saltwater fishing and ...(More)

CCA FLORIDA APPLAUDS ACTION BY FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION TO OPPOSE FEDERAL GROUPER PROPOSAL

            The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has voted  unanimously to oppose the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposal which would prohibit recreational fishing for all Gulf grouper for three months. Instead, the Commissioners at their June meeting recommended reducing the red grouper bag limit from two to one per day....(More)

ICAST 2005—The Largest Showcase of Sportfishing Products All Under One Roof

June 14, 2005—ALEXANDRIA, VA—Building on the success of three consecutive sell-out shows, ICAST 2005 once again has a sold-out show floor. The sportfishing industry’s tradeshow is shaping up to be the biggest sportfishing trade event in recent years, with more than 390 exhibitors filling over 1,180 booths to showcase their full product lines and the latest in sportfishing equipment and accessories for industry buyers...(More)

Tarpon Fishing and Catching The Elusive Silver King - Megalops atlanticus

IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame

to enshrine five men

Seventh annual Rolex sponsored event honors contributions

to the sport of fishing 

DANIA BEACH, Fla. --- Five men will be inducted into the International Game Fish Association Fishing Hall of Fame, this fall.  The class of 2005 includes Stuart “Stu” C. Apte, John L. Morris, George Parker, Donald J. Tyson and Edward vom Hofe

The star-studded enshrinement ceremony and dinner, sponsored by Rolex, will be held Tuesday, October 25, at 6 p.m. at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum in Dania Beach , Fla. The public is invited...(More)

RED TIDE TOXINS POSE LINGERING THREAT TO MARINE MAMMALS

LIVING WITH FLORIDA’S ALLIGATORS: A PRACTICAL GUIDE

By some estimates, alligators and people in Florida are 10 times more likely to come into contact now than 35 years ago. This figure is based on population estimates that indicate both the number of alligators and the number of humans have more than tripled since 1970. Staff at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) say these impressive statistics bare witness to a need for increased public awareness about alligator safety and behavior...(More)

Final Rule Authorizes Observer Program in the Red Snapper Fishery; Establishes Stock Rebuilding Plan - Gulf of Mexico

NOAA Fisheries Service has published a final rule to implement Amendment 22 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico. This final rule provides the regulatory authority to implement a mandatory observer program for selected commercial and for-hire (charter vessel/headboat) vessels in the Gulf of Mexico reef fish fishery...(More)

The FWC will also review and discuss a federal consistency rule for vermilion snapper.  This proposed rule would establish an 11-inch minimum size limit for vermilion snapper harvested statewide for all recreational fishermen, and for all commercially harvested vermilion snapper in the Gulf of Mexico.  The rule would also establish a 10-fish recreational bag limit for vermilion snapper in the Gulf, and close the Gulf to commercial harvest of vermilion snapper from April 22 through May 31...(More)

Tuna Trade Restrictions Lifted

NOAA Fisheries Service is amending the regulations governing the trade of tuna and tuna-like species in the North and South Atlantic Ocean to implement recommendations adopted at the 2004 meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). ...(More)

Central Florida anglers among teams from 31 countries in Sixth Annual Rolex/IGFA Offshore Championship Tournament

Los Cabos, Mexico, site of May 15-21 world championship 

DANIA BEACH, Fla.  – Over a dozen central Florida anglers are among a record 70 teams from 31 countries registered to compete in the Sixth Annual Rolex/International Game Fish Association (IGFA) Offshore Championship Tournament (OCT), May 15-21.  They’ll be fishing the waters around the tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula for marlin and other big game fish....(More)

Gulf of Mexico - Proposed Rule to Implement Limited Access in the Commercial Reef Fish Fishery

NOAA Fisheries Service has issued a proposed rule to implement Amendment 24 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico. This proposed rule would establish a limited access system for the commercial reef fish fishery in the Gulf of Mexico by capping participation at the current level. The rule is intended to provide economic and social stability for fishery participants....(More)

Little Tuna, Big Fun
By Capt. Bill White

Along the gulf coast of Florida there are eight species of tuna that frequent or make seasonal passes within reach of local anglers. There are bluefin, yellowfin, big eye, albacore, skipjack, blackfin, bonito, and little tunny. The latter two are the smallest varieties of tuna to be worth fishing for, and to most anglers, are strictly fun or just for bait....(More)

FEDS WANT TO PERMIT COMMERCIAL SWORDFISH LONGLINE BOATS TO FISH IN CLOSED AREAS!

GENERAL PUBLIC GIVEN ONLY SEVEN DAYS TO COMMENT!

E-MAILS OPPOSING FEDERAL PROPOSAL ARE NEEDED IMMEDIATELY!
Click Here

Southeast – Proposed Rule Published for Vermilion Snapper Rebuilding Plan

This proposed rule would establish new management measures as part of a rebuilding plan for vermilion snapper. The allowable harvest for the first 4-year interval starting in 2005 is 1.475 million pounds, roughly a 25% reduction. Measures to accomplish this reduction include:
1) An increase in the minimum size limit from 10" to 11" total length;...(More)

Return of the Armada
By
Capt. Bill White © 2005

Ah, Spring! The flowers are blooming, trees are hazing your windshield with pollen, the snowbirds are flocking north, and spring-breakers are returning to gulf beaches. Spring is the time of year when serious anglers neglect cutting their lawns, cleaning the windows, downspouts, etc, in favor of tuning the outboard, testing the depth finder, re-lining reels, replacing rusted hooks on lures and cleaning filet knives in preparation of the calm weather to come.....(More)

NOAA Agents Seize 8,851 Pounds of Illegally Caught Fish

NOAA’s Office for Law Enforcement, working in conjunction with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department game wardens, seized 8,851 pounds of reef fish from a Texas-based commercial fishing vessel holding a federal fishing permit. Most of the fish were red snapper. On March 2, NOAA special agents and the Texas game wardens boarded the vessel while...(More)

Southeast – NOAA Fisheries Soliciting Comments on Amendment 15 to Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources of the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico

The Amendment will establish a limited access system and change the fishing year for Atlantic migratory groups of king and Spanish mackerel to March 1 through February 28-29. The intent of the proposed actions is to provide for social and economic stability in the mackerel fisheries...(More)

NOAA Fisheries Service Proposes Regulations in Response to Recommendations Adopted by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)

NOAA’s Fisheries Service proposes regulations to lift restrictive trade measures in response to recommendations adopted by the ICCAT during the 2004 meeting. This proposed rule would modify the following trade restrictions:...(More)

CCA FLORIDA
GRASSROOTS NETWORK ALERT!

LEGISLATION TO PUT 500 SQ. FT. GILL NETS IN FLORIDA WATERS WILL BE HEARD IN SENATE ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION COMMITTEE

WEDNESDAY – MARCH 16!

CCA MEMBERS, FISHING CLUBS AND OTHER CONSERVATION INTERESTS NEED TO CONTACT SENATORS TO OPPOSE SB 1178!

A.  WHAT TO DO:  All CCA Florida Chapters and other Grassroots Alert members should immediately contact their members and get them to call or e-mail the Senators listed and urge them to:...MORE

Hagaman and Goodwin win first-ever Wal-Mart FLW Redfish Series event in Sarasota

SARASOTA, Fla. – Captain Jeff Hagaman of Tampa and James Goodwin of Palm Harbor caught a two-day total of four redfish weighing 29 pounds, 3 ounces and won $25,000 plus the $12,500 Yamaha Bonus for a grand total of $37,500 in the Wal-Mart FLW Redfish Series Eastern Division event in Sarasota. Hagaman and Goodwin bested 125 teams to win the two-day event...(More)

TOP CATFISHING HOLES REVEALED

Few anglers will ever have an opportunity to try to reel in a freight train, but people who hook one of Florida’s monstrous catfish have a pretty good idea of what it would feel like. One of the reasons Florida owns the bragging rights to the “Fishing Capital of the World” title is this state’s lakes and rivers are crammed with catfish -- and some top the scales at 60 pounds or more...(More)

Tampa, Florida - February 18, 2005 (corrected 2/24/05) - The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) will meet March 7 - 10, 2005 at The Wynfrey Hotel, 1000 Riverchase Galleria, Birmingham, Alabama. The Council’s Committees will meet Monday and Tuesday. The Council session will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday with public testimony on Final Shrimp Amendment 13/EA and Exempted Fishing Permits (if any). Persons who wish to testify before the Council must register before the start of the testimony period. Shrimp Amendment 13/EA proposes to: (1) Establish a separate vessel permit for the royal red shrimp fishery or ...(More)

Gulf of Mexico – Rebuilding Plan for Vermilion Snapper Now Available for Public Review and Comment

NOAA Fisheries Service has announced the availability of Amendment 23 to the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan, which was prepared by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council. Amendment 23 would establish a 10-year rebuilding plan for vermilion snapper in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Gulf of Mexico. The rebuilding plan seeks to achieve a 25.5-percent reduction in harvest. Measures to accomplish this reduction include increases in minimum size, a decreased recreational bag limit, and a closed commercial season. These measures are intended to end overfishing and rebuild the vermilion snapper resource consistent with the requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Act.  Copies of Amendment 23 and supporting documents can be downloaded from the Council's Web site at http://www.gulfcouncil.org. You may submit comments on Amendment 23 via e-mail to: 0648-AS19NOA@noaa.gov. Include in the subject line the following document identifier: 0648-AS19.  Written comments must be received no later than 5 p.m., eastern time, April 25, 2005.

National - NOAA Issues Research Plan; Vision to Guide Future Studies

NOAA has issued two documents to guide the long and short-term direction of its research. The five year plan and 20 year vision were developed by the NOAA Research Council, a committee of senior scientists from across NOAA. The five year plan focuses on short-term outcomes, such as creating an Earth system model, developing the Global Earth Observing System of Systems (GEOSS), studying ocean phenomena, and improving climate predictions and projections. The 20 year research vision is defined as Understanding Global Ecosystems to Support Informed Decision-Making. Both documents address the need to better integrate NOAA's research across the agency.

China Gives 'Drink Like A Fish' New Meaning

January 31, 2005 (Release from: Independent Online (South Africa))
Beijing - The French used grapes, Russians fermented potatoes, Koreans put ginseng in their drink and Mexicans distilled cactus plants to make fiery tequila. Now China is introducing fish wine.
 Sun Keman, an entrepreneur in the north-east port city of Dalian, has formed the Dalian Fisherman's Song Maritime Biological Brewery, with a plan to use his background in the fishing industry to make fish into wine. "Different from China's thousands of years of brewing, the brewery will clean, boil, and ferment fish for making wine," the official Xinhua news agency reported. The company already had orders from Japan, Russia and other parts of China, it said. Tipplers might also take heart in knowing the brew is purported to be good for them. "Experts said the wine is nutritious and contains low alcohol," Xinhua said.

FWC ANNOUNCES TOP STRIPER AND HYBRID BASS HONEYHOLES

Bass anglers don’t have to hang up their fishing rods for the winter just because Florida’s legendary largemouths pretty much come down with lockjaw when the weather gets too cool.  Fall and winter months offer the best striped bass and hybrid bass fishing here in the state that bills itself as the Fishing Capital of the World....(More)

PUBLIC HEARINGS SCHEDULED TO RECEIVE COMMENTS ON SHRIMP AMENDMENT 13

Tampa, Florida - January 24, 2005 - The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold a series of public hearings to receive public comments on "Amendment Number 13 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico, U.S. Waters with Environmental Assessment, Regulatory Impact Review, and Regulatory Flexibility Act Analysis." Amendment 13 contains alternatives to: (1) Establish a separate vessel permit for the royal red shrimp fishery or an endorsement to the existing federal shrimp vessel permit (Action 1); (2) Define ...(More)

Common Sense Prevails in White Marlin Management

HOUSTON, TX – The parties involved in a lawsuit seeking to have white marlin listed as an endangered species in U.S. waters have reached a settlement agreement that recognizes the necessity of an international solution for the recovery of the species.

The Center for Biological Diversity, based in Denver, and the Turtle Island Restoration Network, based in San Francisco, sued the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in an attempt to force the agency to list Atlantic white marlin as “threatened” or “endangered” as defined by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). CCA and the American Sportfishing Association intervened on the side of NMFS in the lawsuit, arguing that an ESA listing would misdirect an overwhelming amount of regulatory effort at domestic recreational fishermen who land fewer than 50 white marlin annually...(More)

Area of Grammanik Bank Closed off St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands to Protect Spawning Sites of Yellowfin Grouper 

From February 1, 2005, through April 30, 2005, no person may fish for or possess any species of fish, except highly migratory species, within the Grammanik Bank closed area. This closure is designed to protect a yellowfin grouper spawning aggregation and to reduce overfishing. Researchers at the University of the Virgin Islands have documented a severe decline in abundance during recent aggregations, attributed to increased fishing effort on this stock....(More)

RED TIDE ALLIANCE UNVEILS 
NEW MONITORING SYSTEM
Two Opportunities to Get a Firsthand Look at this New Technology

St. Petersburg and Boca Grande, FL—A new system designed to automatically detect red tide around the clock will be unveiled Monday and Tuesday by the Red Tide Alliance, a collaborative effort of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI), Mote Marine Laboratory, and the grassroots citizens group, Solutions To Avoid Red Tide (START). The new system is part of a larger effort by the groups to examine the nutrient sources that help feed red tide blooms throughout Southwest Florida...(More)

FWC ANNOUNCES TOP STRIPER AND HYBRID BASS HONEYHOLES

December 29, 2004
Contact:  Rick Long (850) 487-1645

Bass anglers don’t have to hang up their fishing rods for the winter just because Florida’s legendary largemouths pretty much come down with lockjaw when the weather gets too cool.  Fall and winter months offer the best striped bass and hybrid bass fishing here in the state that bills itself as the Fishing Capital of the World....(More)

New "Bass Fishing School Opens In Delaware"

A new "Bass Fishing School", has opened in Delaware this year. It is run by the 1998, 99, and 2001 Big Bass World Champs/De, and "Hall Of Fame" angler Steve vonBrandt and his brother Kurt.

(PRWEB) December 22, 2004 -- S&K Guide Service, a "Trophy Bass" guide service, located in Delaware, has opened a bass fishing school in addition to its already popular trophy bass guide service, which caters to the tournament angler...(More)

A Resurgence in Classic Split Bamboo Fly Fishing Rods

The art and craft of split bamboo fly rods is making a comeback. Since the demise of traditional manufacturers starting in the 1940s, there has not been a practical modern alternative for split bamboo fly rods until now. The Headwaters Bamboo Rod Co. makes these rods available to the contemporary fly fisherman.

Hillsboro, OR (PRWEB) December 29, 2004 -- The art and craft of split bamboo fly rods, thought lost to fly fishermen, is experiencing a strong resurgence. The bamboo rod, standard fly fishing gear in the first half of the 20th century, dwindled in use starting in the 1940s with the introduction of new materials—first fiberglass and then carbon fiber graphite and boron...(More)

New Products Make for Cool Adventures

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama-December 9, 2004—Silver Eagle Outfitters, the leading manufacturer of cooling apparel made of a specially-designed, evaporative cooling fabric, is offering a line of clothing and blankets that can increase both comfort and physical performance in outdoor activities—all while decreasing the risk of heat stress...(More)

Fisherman dies fighting tuna

A fisherman discovered an empty boat cruising off the North Carolina coast Tuesday morning with its harpoon line in the water. When he reeled in the line, he found a live bluefin tuna speared on the end -- and the captain's entangled body. The captain, Bruce Bartlett of South Plainfield, N.J., apparently harpooned the fish, then got his left leg caught in the 200-foot line, Coast Guard officials said. When the tuna swam away, Bartlett...(More)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Provides Emergency Protection for Manatees in Five Areas of Lee County, Florida

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 6, 2004

Mercury Contamination Poisoning Louisiana Anglers

Louisiana Sportsman Magazine investigates the presence of Mercury found in some Louisiana bodies of water and the effects this will have on Louisiana anglers. This story may be printed for FREE in any print publication. The tagline must be printed along with the story.

(PRWEB) December 2, 2004 -- Mercury contamination has become a major battle cry nationwide for environmental groups. With some of the highest mercury emissions in the U.S., Louisiana is at the forefront of this controversy....(More)

Beverage Companies & Governments Ignore Bottle-Cap Lure Inventor

Canadian vows to continue recycling salvage caps creating employment.

(PRWEB) December 7, 2004 -- Canadian inventor Norm Price, is on a crusade to keep recycling bottle caps from bars, pubs, retaurants, trade shows and so on. His mission to create a cleaner environment and create employment for college students. Hoping to create over 100,000 jobs within the next twelve months...(More)

Tampa, Florida - December 6, 2004 - The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council is seeking members of the industry to serve on its Advisory Panels and individuals with knowledge of fisheries to serve on its Scientific and Statistical Committees, Socioeconomic Panel, and Stock Assessment Panels. These individuals will have the opportunity to advise the Council on matters pertaining to management of these resources in the federal waters of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ)...(More)

Gulf – Comments Requested on Proposed Rebuilding Plan for Red Snapper

NOAA Fisheries has proposed new regulations to implement Amendment 22 to the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico. Amendment 22 establishes a stock rebuilding plan, biological reference points, and stock status determination criteria for red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico...(More)

NOAA Announces Ocean Observing Milestone

NOAA and its partners announced that 1,500 free-floating, data collecting devices are now in operation in the world's oceans, reaching the half-way point of an eventual fleet of 3,000 floats. The devices, named Argo, are now in all parts of the world's ice-free oceans and are the backbone of many nations' climate and weather programs...(More)

Gulf of Mexico - Red Snapper Commercial Fishery in Federal Waters Open December 1-15

The commercial fishery for red snapper in Gulf of Mexico federal waters will open at noon, local time, on December 1, 2004, and close at noon, local time, on December 15, 2004. The commercial red snapper fishing season will then remain closed until noon, local time, on February 1, 2005. The 2004 Gulf of Mexico commercial red snapper quota is 4.65-million pounds. 703,778 pounds are available for the December 2004 commercial opening....(More)

NOAA Fisheries Announces a Final Rule for North and South Atlantic Swordfish Fisheries

NOAA Fisheries has published a final rule to implement North and South Atlantic swordfish quota recommendations from the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). This rule includes the following actions:

• Increases the United States North Atlantic swordfish quota to 2,937 mt dressed weight (dw) in 2004 and 2005;

• Allows 150.4 mt dw of the North Atlantic swordfish catch limit to be harvested

(More)

Bluefin Tuna General and Angling Category Fisheries Closed

NOAA Fisheries closed the Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) General and Angling category fisheries on November 19, 2004. The intent of these closures was to ensure that the U.S. BFT harvest is consistent with the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas recommendations. Vessel owner/operators may continue to tag and release BFT of all sizes under a tag-and-release program provided that all ...(More)

NOAA Fisheries Establishes HMS International Trade Permit and Reporting Requirements for Monitoring of Tuna and Swordfish Trade

NOAA Fisheries has modified its international trade tracking programs to implement recommendations of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) and the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC), and to establish a new international trade permit for import, export, or re-export of bluefin tuna, Pacific bluefin tuna, southern bluefin tuna, frozen bigeye tuna, and swordfish....(More)

International Commission Adopts U.S. Proposal for Shark Finning Ban

Sixty-three countries unanimously adopted historic and unprecedented protective measures for Atlantic sharks during the annual meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). Led by NOAA Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, Bill Hogarth, the United States delegation pushed for and won a consensus agreement. The meeting concluded Sunday in New Orleans....(More)

Closure of Shallow-Water Grouper Commercial Fishery in Gulf of Mexico Federal Waters

NOAA Fisheries announces that the commercial fishery for shallow-water grouper (red, black, gag, yellowfin, scamp, yellowmouth, rock hind, and red hind) in Gulf of Mexico federal waters will close at 12:01 a.m., local time, on November 15, 2004, when the 2004 red grouper quota of 5.31 million pounds, gutted weight, is projected to be reached. The existing regulations require closure of the entire shallow-water grouper fishery when either the red grouper quota or shallow-water grouper quota is reached. ...(More)

Atlantic - U.S. Delegation Poised to Propose International Management of Sharks to the ICCAT

As the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) convenes on Monday November 15, Vice Adm. Conrad Lautenbacher will hold a press conference to announce a historic U.S. proposal calling for the international management of Atlantic sharks....(More)

National - International Commission Sees Large Drop in Illegal Fishing for Chilean Sea Bass

Scientists have released new data showing a dramatic decrease in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing for Patagonian and Antarctic toothfish, species commonly marketed in the United States as Chilean sea bass. The new data was presented last week at the annual meeting of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources in Hobart, Australia, attended by a delegation from the U.S. Departments of Commerce and State and the National Science Foundation....(More)

Grants Available For Phys Ed Fishing Programs

The Future Fisherman Foundation has $200,000 available to physical education teachers throughout the United States who incorporate fishing and boating education into their curricula, offering up to $5,000 grants to help foster active leisure lifestyles and ethical attitudes about the outdoors...(More)

THE NEWLY-DESIGNED CRESTLINER 2285 LSi ANGLER IS A PREMIER FISHING PONTOON

Little Falls, MN… The LSi Angler is Crestliner’s most feature-packed fishing pontoon. At the stern, anglers will find dual Concept DX fishing chairs, a 19-gallon aerated livewell, roomy rod locker and plenty of storage. This pontoon also has a freshly-designed helm station with an elegant dash, storage, cooler, wet bar and new tilt stainless sport steering wheel...(More)

POLLUTERS TO FACE EVEN LESS RESISTANCE FROM EPA IN SECOND BUSH TERM; ENFORCEMENT WILL SHIFT TO STATES, CITIZEN LAWSUITS, SAYS NRDC AND EIP

2004 EPA Penalties Were Lowest in 15 Years; Groups Expect Downward Trend to Continue

WASHINGTON (November 9, 2004) -- The reelection of President George Bush means that polluters will enjoy four more years of lax enforcement of the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, according to experts from the Environmental Integrity Project (EIP) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NDRC). The good news, the groups say, is that at least some state attorneys general and citizen enforcers will step in to tackle the worst cases when the EPA fails to act...(More)

ALLIGATOR POACHING CASE SOLVED

Veteran Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Investigators Mike Frantz and Larry Jernstedt used solid investigative techniques and an anonymous tip to solve the case of who killed a five-foot alligator in a Sarasota pond...(More)

SHALLOW-WATER GROUPER QUOTA CLOSURE AT 12:01 A.M. NOVEMBER 15, 2004

(posted November 11, 2004) - The commercial shallow-water grouper fishery in the Gulf of Mexico will close at 12:01 a.m., local time, on November 15, 2004, when the red grouper quota of 5.31 million pounds is projected to be reached. (Under the rebuilding plan for red grouper, which is classified as overfished, the shallow-water grouper fishery closes when either the red grouper quota or shallow-water grouper quota is reached, whichever occurs first.)  The commercial fishery will remain closed until 12:01 a.m., local time, January 1, 2005.   The operator of a vessel with a valid reef fish permit having...(More)

Chicken Teaches Kids How to Fish!

MIAMI, /PRNewswire/ -- Pollo Tropical(R) Restaurants, South
Florida icon of fresh and homemade Caribbean fast food, joins the 45th Annual
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show(R) next weekend by offering a special
treat for young anglers....(More)

The E-Commerce Leader Adds Popular TV Fishing Show's Web Site to its Steadily Growing Network

IRVINE, Calif., /PRNewswire/ -- Ritz Interactive, the e-commerce
network that includes RitzCamera.com, BoatersWorld.com,
OuterBanksOutfitters.com, ShopAtShark.com and other leading online shopping
destinations, has acquired InsideSportfishing.com -- the official Web site of
the popular "Inside Sportfishing" TV Series aired weekly on Fox Sports and the
Sportsman Channel....(More)

Southeast - Operator Permits for the South Atlantic Rock Shrimp and Atlantic Dolphin and Wahoo Fisheries

Beginning November 23, 2004, operator permit cards (operator cards) will be required for an operator of a vessel that has, or is required to have, a charter vessel/headboat or commercial vessel permit for Atlantic dolphin-wahoo. Operator cards have been required in the South Atlantic rock shrimp fishery since May 16, 2003....(More)

Cold Weather, HOT Sails!
By
Capt. Bill White

   As the "Beast", the 26 ft World Cat owned by my good friend Capt. Jim Barlett ran smoothly across Biscayne Bay, my friends and I expected a rough and bitterly cold outing into the January Atlantic. Winds were blasting from the north at 20 knots, waves chopped at 6 feet with 10 seconds frequency. My companions on this trip, Dave Parry of Ft. Myers, and Dr. Jim McCreary (Doc) of Sarasota, had never fished blue water before. Neither of them had ever had the experience of fighting a big sail, but both were seaworthy and ready ...(More)

FishInSight  Version 2.0 – Fishing Log Software

The most innovative advance in fishing log product is here!

FishInSight takes the common place fishing log to the next level by incorporating GPS communications and geographic mapping. This creates not only a record of what you caught, where you caught it and with whom, but also automatically overlays your personal waypoints on your computer charts for the next time you want to return....(More)

Hill's Landing To Host 2nd Annual Summerville Marine Big Cat Fishing Tournament, 
November 12-14, 2004

The Santee Cooper Lakes, South Carolina, USA offer the finest catfishing in the country! This incredible lake system, Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, are home to 3-world record and 4 state records catches with over 122 miles of shoreline.

(PRWEB) October 24, 2004 -- Hill's Landing will be hosting their 2nd Annual Summerville Marine BIG CAT Fishing Tournament November 12- 14th. November has proven to be great catfishing action on the Santee Cooper Lakes, Lake Marion & Moultrie, South Carolina, USA. Last year's winners,Ed, Jimmy, and O'Neil, Brown, three brothers from Georgia, hooked a 67.59 pound winning cat at Hill's Landing, 1st Annual Summerville Marine Big Cat Tournament 2003....(More)

DESIGNED BY PROS, THE 202 TOURNAMENT SERIES IS CRESTLINER'S BIGGEST, MOST FEATURE-PACKED FISHING BOAT

Little Falls, MN…Serious anglers like professional champions Rick Olson, Bruce Samson and Dan Plautz choose Crestliner’s 20-foot Tournament Series to stay competitive on tour. It’s only natural, since they helped design it. Among the many top features on board is the huge bow rod locker, which now features auto-on lighting to improve visibility during low-light conditions. Also at the bow, anglers will appreciate a quick-access baitwell, accessory bin and generous storage. All compartments are lined with tough vinyl for fast drying, and lids are...(More)

SERVICE ISSUES INTERIM RULE FOR THREATENED BELUGA STURGEON

Tampa, Florida - October 18, 2004 - The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold its November 7 - 10, 2004 meeting at the Sheraton Hotel, 310 Padre Boulevard, South Padre Island, Texas. The Council meeting will begin on Sunday, November 7, 2004 at 9:00 a.m. with the Mackerel Management Committee. This committee will review public hearing and Advisory Panel (AP)/Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) comments on Draft Coastal Migratory Pelagics (CMP) Amendment 15 which proposes a permanent limited access system on commercial mackerel vessel permits....(More)

TRIMSPA® Congratulates Winners at ESPN Redfish Cup Championship

Captain Sam Arcure, Sr. and Captain Sam Arcure, Jr. of TRIMSPA’s Team Arcure, once again participated in the Oh Boy! Oberto® ESPN Redfish Cup tournament, held September 30 through October 4, 2004 in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The Lake Charles Championship was the final contest of the 2004 season....(More)

TRIMSPA’s® IFA Redfish Tour Championship Raises Hope in Hopedale

The excitement continues as the Inshore Fishing Association (IFA) Redfish Tour and TRIMSPA sponsored Team Arcure looks forward to the final “big catch” at the Hopedale, Louisiana Championship, Thursday November 4th - Saturday November 6th. The $750 TRIMSPA Weigh-in Challenge also rolls into town for a weight loss contest as well....(More)

Tracker-Outdoors.com Offers Hunting Lease Classifieds

Post your hunting lease, day hunting lease or guide and outfitter service for whitetail deer, hogs, quail, dove, ducks, turkey, pheasant or other North American wild game! If you have hunting land to lease, day hunts, guided hunts or provide other hunting opportunities, take advantage of our high traffic to get your lease or services noticed....(More)

Tampa, Florida - The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) will convene its Standing and Special Mackerel and Reef Fish Scientific and Statistical Committees (SSC) to review public hearing drafts of Amendment 15 to the Coastal Migratory Pelagics Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and Amendment 24 to the Reef Fish..(More)

Hurricane Jeanne Damages U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Refuges and Facilities in Florida and Georgia

FishAmerica Foundation and The Redfish Nation Partner to Enhance Redfish Conservation Efforts

Lake Charles, LA—On October 2, 2004, during the 2004 Oh Boy! Oberto Redfish Cup Championshipheld at Bord du Lac Park in Lake Charles, LA, the FishAmerica Foundation (FAF) and The Redfish Nation announced an $8,900 grant to the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) of Florida, for redfish habitat restoration in the Indian River Lagoon, Florida. CCA is an angler conservation organization with 15 chapters located across the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic seaboard...(More)

ADVISORY PANEL TO REVIEW PUBLIC COMMENTS ON RED SNAPPER IFQ PROFILE

Tampa, Florida - The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council’s (Council) Ad Hoc Red Snapper Advisory Panel (AP) will be convened to review public comment on an individual fishing quota (IFQ) scoping document, and to develop their recommendations to the Council on the alternatives that should become rules regulating the...(More)

Headline Charley, Frances, Ivan and the dying fisherman.

42 year old Blais Ruelle has terminal ALS (Lou Gehrigs Disease) The boat he rented from neighbor for fishing sank in Hurricane Charley. Blais insured boat (neighbor didn't have nor want insurance) and put thousands into it, but neighbor kept all of $10,500 insurance payment. No boat, no money to enjoy the one thing he had left...(More)

2004 TAMPA BOAT SHOW POSTPONED
Show to be held December 2-5, 2004

Chicago, IL - Due to the growing threat of severe weather and Hurricane Ivan, NMMA has postponed the 2004 Tampa Boat Show scheduled for September 16 through September 19 at the Tampa Convention Center...(More)

WITHLACOOCHEE RIVER FISH KILL RESULT OF LOW OXYGEN LEVELS

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY MEN FACE FELONY NET CHARGES

Four Indian River County men are facing felony and misdemeanor charges for suspected illegal net use in the Indian River in Vero Beach.  The arrests came as a result of an Aug. 12 surveillance detail that Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) law enforcement officers set up to target illegal entangling net activity on the Indian River in Vero Beach...(More)

HABITUAL FISHERIES VIOLATOR PLEADS GUILTY TO STATE FELONY FRAUD CHARGES

According to an investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), two Matlacha residents were part of a group who schemed to bilk the state out of more than $100,000 worth of saltwater fisheries products.  On Monday...(More)

HURRICANE AFTERMATH CAUSES HAZARDOUS BOATING CONDITIONS

Boaters operating on near-shore or inshore waters, local lakes and rivers should precede with extreme caution in the aftermath of Hurricane Charley, warn the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG).

“Channels have silted in, sandbars have shifted and floating and submerged debris from...(More)

Croaker Fish Kills Explanation Soon

SHRIMP BOAT CAPTAIN CHARGED FOR NET VIOLATIONS IN FLAGLER

An Alabama shrimp boat captain trawling off Flagler County is facing criminal charges after Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers discovered he was dragging too close to shore and using too many nets.  Clifford Lemme Johnson III, 49, (DOB 11-15-54), of Coden, Ala., is charged with trawling inside one mile with an excess of allowable number of nets (a second-degree misdemeanor). He was using three nets (two otter trawls and one tri net), but by law is only allowed to..(More)

Malaysian Killed By Swordfish

A man has died in Malaysia after being attacked by a swordfish. Azlieman Mantinpan succumbed to his wounds after the incident near the northern tip of Malaysian Borneo.  Mr Azlieman, a 30-year-old mechanic, was on a fishing trip off Kampung Limau Limauan, near the town of Kudat, when he was fatally wounded. Police sources said he was swimming...(More)

The newly-designed Crestliner 2285 LSi Angler is a premier fishing pontoon

Little Falls, MN… The LSi Angler is Crestliner’s most feature-packed fishing pontoon. At the stern, anglers will find dual Concept DX fishing chairs, a 19-gallon aerated livewell, roomy rod locker and plenty of storage. This pontoon also has a freshly-designed helm station with an elegant dash, storage, cooler, wet bar and new tilt stainless sport steering wheel...(More)

New Web Site Provides Fly Fishing Enthusiasts With Unique Competition Opportunities and Prizes.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) August 15, 2004 -- FantasyFlyFish.com, a web site providing fly fishing enthusiasts with unique, online fishing contests from anywhere in the U.S., launches this week.   The brainchild of two recent graduates of Texas Tech University...(More)

New Permit Conservation Requirements for Atlantic Dolphin-Wahoo Fishermen

AGENCY, PARTNERS WILL POOL $4.8 MILLION TO REMOVE 91 FISH PASSAGE BARRIERS IN 26 STATES

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the agency=s partners will pool $4.8 million in 2004 to remove 91 barriers to fish passage in 26 states.

Walt Disney World Resort Announces New BASS Fishing Excursions

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., July 28 /PRNewswire/ -- World-class theme parks and attractions are not the only reasons for visiting Walt Disney World Resort. There's fishing, too, with trophy-sized largemouth bass in the 14- pound range lurking in lakes and canals almost within casting distance of Cinderella Castle. Popular "catch and release" experiences around the Vacation Kingdom promise to "lure" even more guests to the Disney lakes, as Walt Disney World announced a new line-up of BASS fishing excursions with the nation's preeminent authority on the sport of fishing...(More)

Today's Catch: Red Snapper Fakes

Groups Call For Action On Handfish

FISHERMEN CHARGED UNDER NEW FLORIDA LAW

Three Big Bend fishermen are facing a combination of felony and misdemeanor charges after their arrest late Monday afternoon, July 19, at the mouth of the Aucilla River for possession of two gill nets totaling more than 4,500 square feet and three smaller nets...(More)

FishAmerica Foundation Hooks Up With The Redfish Nation

Redfish conservation will get a boost from a new partnership between the FishAmerica Foundation and The Redfish Nation, an angler organization launched this month by outdoor television producers J.M. Associates of Little Rock, Arkansas. The partnership will help raise funds to support redfish conservation and spotlight the growing popularity of redfish fishing...(More)

CCA FLORIDA ANNOUNCES 2004 LEGISLATIVE CONSERVATION AWARDS

            The Coastal Conservation Association of Florida has selected six state legislators to receive Legislative Conservation Awards in recognition of their support for marine and fisheries conservation issues during the 2004 Legislative session...(More)

Gulf – Red Snapper Commercial Fishery in GOM Federal Waters Open at Noon, August 1

NOAA Fisheries announces that the commercial fishery for red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico federal waters will open at noon, local time, on August 1, 2004, and close at noon, local time, on August 10, 2004. The fishery will re-open at...(More)

CCA Intervenes to Protect Conservation Victory

HOUSTON, TX – Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) has taken action to prevent a lawsuit filed by the Ocean Conservancy from unraveling a compromise agreement governing two areas in the Gulf of Mexico.

The compromise, hammered out among CCA, the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in 2003, allows recreational anglers to troll for highly migratory species on the surface while restricting bottom fishing for stressed gag grouper stocks in the Madison Swanson and Steamboat Lumps areas off the Florida  coast. CCA has intervened in the lawsuit on the side of NMFS....(More)

White Marlin Need International Solution

HOUSTON, TX – Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) has intervened in a misguided lawsuit filed in Federal District Court seeking to have white marlin listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

The Center for Biological Diversity, based in Denver, and the Turtle Island Restoration Network, based in San Francisco, sued the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in an attempt to force Atlantic white marlin to be listed as “threatened” or “endangered” as defined by the ESA. This action would effectively close all fishing effort for this and other Highly Migratory Species while providing no conservation benefit to white marlin....(More)

SCOPING HEARINGS ON THE RED SNAPPER INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA (IFQ) DOCUMENT SCHEDULED

The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) will hold 10 hearings on a scoping document to solicit public input on the alternative that should be used for an amendment that will create an individual fishing quota (IFQ) program for the commercial red snapper fishery. The scoping document presented at the hearings will consist of two parts. First...(More)

The Bush Administration Plans to Add 10 New Hunting and Fishing Programs on National Wildlife Refuges and Wetland Management Districts

The Bush Administration plans to open new hunting and fishing programs on 10 national wildlife refuges and wetland management districts in Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, North Dakota, South Carolina and South Dakota as part of its annual Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. With the changes in this proposed rule, there will be 325 public hunting programs and 283 public fishing programs on national wildlife refuges....(More)

Busch Series Press Release

The long-standing relationship between the Earnhardt Family and Bass Pro Shops began with Dale Earnhardt, the seven-time NASCAR champion, in The Winston 1998 at Lowe's Motor Speedway when Dale ran a special paint scheme on his No. 3 Chevrolet. Bass Pro Shops continued as a secondary sponsor of Earnhardt's, through the remainder of his career. Bass Pro Shops joined Chance 2 last year with Hank Parker Jr. in the No. 8 Chevrolet at Atlanta Motor Speedway....(More)

NOAA Divers To Explore For Venomous Fish

Scientists Describe The World's Smallest, Lightest Fish

Outdoor Enthusiasts Have a 
New Toy Store

BackCountry Toys has opened its virtual doors to outdoor enthusiasts. Providing premium gear and valuable information for enjoying and respecting the American outdoors.

(PRWEB) July 22, 2004 -- The American backcountry is known for its great diversity and natural beauty. Exploring it with the right gear can make the adventure safe as well as enjoyable. BackCountry Toys opened last month to fill...(More)

LOBSTER SPORT SEASON IS JULY 28-29 THIS YEAR

July 20, 2004

July 28-29 is this year’s crawfish (spiny lobster) sport season – also known as the “mini-season.”  For two days, recreational lobster hunters will have the state’s waters all to themselves before the commercial season opens...(More)

The 1^st Annual Florida <