Fishing News 20240304-20240310
Fishing News 20240304-20240310 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
EJF’s Call to Curtail Pair Trawling (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
March 4, 2024
(source: seafoodsource.com – by Chris Chase)
EJF’s Call to Curtail Pair Trawling
The Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) is calling for the Thai government to curtail the practice of pair trawling, which it called environmentally destructive. EJF’s recent “Scourge of the Seas” report attributed much of the country’s catch declines to trawling vessels, especially those using pair trawling – a type of bottom trawling involving two vessels pulling a net that can stretch as much as a kilometer wide. According to the report, a study of the country’s past catch volumes and declining catch per unit effort (CPUE) are signs that Thailand’s fisheries are declining, which EJF blamed on pair trawling and other bottom trawlers.
Impact of Pair Trawling on Fish Populations
“Thailand’s fish populations are being devastated by a small, unregulated portion of its commercial fleet. Destructive and uncontrolled pair trawling is wiping out the ocean ecosystems that support livelihoods and food security across Thailand, in a short-term grab for profit at far greater long-term costs for people and the environment,” EJF CEO and Co-Founder Steve Trent said. EJF said trawlers make up just 5 percent of the fishing fleet but accounted for 40 percent of landings by volume in 2021. A portion of their catch is so-called “trash fish” that has been bruised or crushed through the trawling action, with little commercial value, EJF said. Much of is composed up of the juveniles of valuable species that would have been worth more if not caught too young.
Evidence of Depletion and Juvenile Fish Catch (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
Analysis of the catch by Thailand’s Department of Fisheries 20 years ago and the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center in 2013 and 2014 found 64 to 78 percent of the trash fish caught were juveniles of economically valuable species. A 2017 follow-up study found the total could be as high as 81 percent. “Pair trawlers catching vast quantities of juvenile fish threaten to cause an inescapable downward spiral, undermining future healthy fisheries for trash fish today,” Trent said.
Thailand’s Fisheries Reforms and Criticism
Thailand instituted widespread fisheries reform in 2015, after becoming known as a “place where illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing was rampant” according to The Pew Charitable Trusts. The problem brought about heavy criticism from the European Commission, which issued a yellow card caution in April 2015 that called for Thailand’s government to take action or risk being barred from exporting seafood to the European Union. The European Commission lifted the yellow card in 2019, signaling it was satisfied with Thailand’s fisheries reforms that were designed to prevent IUU.
Challenges to Reforms (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
But Thailand’s reforms came under heavy criticism from the nation’s fishing industry, which began lobbying the government to relax its reforms soon after the yellow card was lifted.
UK and Faroe Islands Reach 2024 Fishing Agreement (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
March 4, 2024
(source: miragenews.com – by ???)
UK and Faroe Islands Reach 2024 Fishing Agreement
The UK government has announced that the UK fishing industry will gain access to more than 2,200 tonnes of fishing opportunities in 2024 as a result of annual negotiations with the Faroe Islands. This significant development, revealed on Monday 4th March, signifies a positive step forward for the industry.
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Under this new agreement, fishermen will reap the rewards of 920 tonnes of cod and haddock, 600 tonnes of saithe, as well as Redfish, blue ling and ling, flatfish, and other species. This allocation of fishing opportunities is set to bolster the UK fishing industry and contribute to its growth and sustainability.
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Furthermore, the agreement reaffirms the mutual commitment of the UK and Faroese governments to collaborate on monitoring, control, and surveillance measures, along with scientific cooperation. This collaboration is crucial for ensuring the responsible management of fisheries and the protection of marine resources.
The Impact of Brexit on Fishing Deals (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
In the wake of the UK’s departure from the EU, the nation has been able to capitalize on post-Brexit freedoms by pursuing negotiations that serve the best interests of the UK fishing industry. This has resulted in significant milestones, including the recent fishing agreement with the Faroe Islands, as well as previous deals with the EU and Norway.
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The conclusion of negotiations with the EU and Norway prior to Christmas granted the UK fishing industry access to a substantial 420,000 tonnes of fishing opportunities, with an estimated value of up to £700 million. These developments underscore the newfound flexibility and autonomy that the UK has embraced in shaping its fishing policies post-Brexit.
Commitment to Sustainable Fisheries Management
The annual negotiations with the Faroese Government, conducted within the framework of a bilateral agreement, serve as a platform for exploring potential exchanges of quota and broader fisheries management measures. This ongoing dialogue reflects the shared commitment of both parties to managing fisheries sustainably and ensuring the long-term viability of fish stocks.
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Throughout the negotiation process, the UK Government collaborated closely with the devolved administrations to ensure that the benefits of the agreement extend to all fishing communities across the UK. This inclusive approach underscores the government’s dedication to fostering a thriving and equitable fishing industry nationwide.
March Fishing: Transitioning from Winter to Spring (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
March 6, 2024
(source: pineisland-eagle.com – by Capt. Bill Russell)
Southwest Florida has experienced a wet, windy, and cold winter, but as we transition from winter to spring, the fishing opportunities are expected to improve. The arrival of spring marks the beginning of some of the best fishing of the year, with a diverse range of species becoming more active and ready to take the bait. With the lengthening of days and the warming of the water, the return of schooling bait fish signals the start of a feeding frenzy among the fish along the coastal waters.
Inshore and Nearshore Fishing: A Bounty of Opportunities
As the winter sheepshead run draws to a close, anglers can still find opportunities to hook big ones around inshore structures and nearshore reefs. In addition, the possibility of targeting pompano with shrimp or small pompano jigs adds to the excitement of inshore fishing. Spanish mackerel, known for their ferocious feeding habits and thrilling fights, provide anglers with an exhilarating challenge. Moreover, the often overlooked culinary delight they offer adds to their appeal. The presence of mackerel also increases the likelihood of encountering sharks, as these predators are drawn to the abundant mackerel.
Coastal Waters: The Rise of Snook and Trout (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
The onset of March signals the beginning of good snook fishing along the coastal waters. As the water temperature rises to 70 degrees or above, snook become more active and voracious, preying on oily bait fish. Additionally, the invasion of bait fish and warming water heralds the arrival of big trout, making them common catches this month. With trout in their first and largest spawn cycle of the year, anglers can expect the larger fish to display increased aggression and hunger.
Tidal Opportunities and Offshore Adventures
Following months of daytime low tides, the arrival of the first spring high tides presents excellent opportunities to target redfish along mangrove shorelines and over oyster bars. Moreover, offshore fishing offers a variety of opportunities, including targeting reef dwellers such as snapper, grouper, grunts, and porgies. As the water warms, fast-moving Spanish and king mackerel, false albacore, bonito, and even blackfin tuna make their way up the coast, creating exciting fishing prospects.
Early Season Tarpon and Expecting the Unexpected
The early signs of tarpon begin to emerge a few miles off the beaches, slowly making their way up the coast. As the waters warm over the month, anglers can anticipate the possibility of tarpon hook-ups inshore. March is a month of limitless possibilities, where anglers should always be prepared for the unexpected. Despite the occasional cool and windy days, there are extended periods of great weather as we enter the spring season.
Regulations and Preparation (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
Staying up to date with fishing regulations and seasons is crucial, and anglers are encouraged to visit www.myfwc.com and download the Fish Rules app for current information and assistance in identifying fish species. With the arrival of spring, it’s an ideal time to introduce friends and family from the north to the joys of fishing in Florida, providing them with a memorable experience away from congested roads and crowds.
Empowering Chicago Youth Through Urban Fishing (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
March 7, 2024
(source: austinweeklynews.com – by Jessica Mordacq)
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is once again teaming up with local youth organizations in Chicago to offer a unique and exciting opportunity for children to learn the art of fishing at no cost. Since 1985, the urban fishing program has been collaborating with various organizations, such as CYC-Sidney Epstein Youth Center and the Union League Boys and Girls Club’s Barreto Club, to introduce upper elementary and middle school youth to the joys of fishing. The program aims to equip participants with essential skills, including baiting a hook, casting a line, and handling a caught fish, all while providing the necessary equipment free of charge.
Cultivating Ethical Anglers and Environmental Stewards
Jonathan Schlesinger, the urban fishing program coordinator for Chicago, emphasizes the program’s commitment to instilling ethical values and environmental consciousness in the young anglers. The program seeks to enlighten participants about their role in the environment and the significance of nurturing and protecting nature within their communities. By fostering an understanding of ethical angling practices, the program aims to cultivate a generation of responsible and environmentally aware individuals.
Expanding Access and Education Across Chicago Parks (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
While the official schedule for this year’s program is still being finalized, the IDNR is actively recruiting nine conservation education representatives to conduct fishing sessions on weekdays at various parks across the city, including Columbus Park, Douglass Park, Garfield Park, and Humboldt Park on the West Side. Recognizing that not all youth organizations have convenient access to parks with lagoons, the instructors are prepared to provide fishing and conservation education at Chicago parks without lagoons, ensuring that the program remains accessible to all interested participants.
Diversifying Fishing Opportunities and Resources
In an effort to enrich the fishing experience, the IDNR stocks fish in the lagoons of 13 designated parks throughout Chicago, introducing a variety of species to enhance the fishing environment. This season, the organization is introducing hybrid sunfish, expanding the diversity of fish available for the participants to catch. Beyond the urban fishing program, anglers can also access fishing combos from Chicago’s public libraries, each equipped with a fishing rod, reel, tackle, and artificial bait, free of charge with a library card.
Nurturing a New Generation of Anglers
The urban fishing program not only provides children with their first exposure to fishing but also serves as a source of inspiration and mentorship. For many, including Jonathan Schlesinger himself, the program represents a valuable opportunity to ignite a passion for fishing in children who may not have had access to such experiences in the past. By offering guidance and support, the program aims to foster a new generation of enthusiastic and knowledgeable anglers, ensuring that the joy of fishing continues to be passed down to future generations.
Argentina’s Operation Against Chinese IUU Fishing (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
March 8, 2024
(source: dialogo-americas.com – by JUAN DELGADO)
Argentina’s Response to Chinese IUU Fishing
The Argentine Armed Forces have initiated Operation Griffon XVII in South Atlantic waters to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, particularly by Chinese-flagged vessels. This operation aims to strengthen Argentina’s fight against the exploitation of the region’s fish stocks by unauthorized fishing activities. The Argentine Navy, in collaboration with the Argentine Naval Prefecture (PNA), is actively monitoring maritime traffic in the southern Atlantic under the authority of the Joint Maritime Command (COCM).
Challenges Posed by Chinese Expansionist Activities
According to Argentine defense and international relations expert Luis Somoza, the expansionist activities of China have prompted the need for military naval assets to control maritime jurisdictions in defense of sovereignty. This underscores the significance of Argentina’s efforts to address the threat posed by IUU fishing, particularly in the context of Chinese expansionism.
Strategic Approach and Focus on Squid Season (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
The Argentine government has strategically concentrated its efforts during the squid season, which spans from December to March, targeting the main product sought by Chinese companies. This focus reflects the recognition of the specific periods when IUU fishing activities are most prevalent, particularly by Chinese fishing trawlers specializing in squid fishing. These vessels have been known to disable their Automatic Identification System (AIS) devices to avoid detection in areas where IUU fishing takes place.
International Collaboration and Congressional Approval
In a bid to enhance its capabilities in combating IUU fishing, the Argentine government is seeking Congressional approval for the visit of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter JAMES to Argentina in April 2024. If approved, the PNA and the U.S. Coast Guard cutter USCG James will conduct combined training for the defense of fishing resources in the South Atlantic. This collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by IUU fishing, particularly in the context of Chinese fishing activities.
The Need for Coordinated Action
Luis Somoza emphasized the necessity for coordinated action among nations to demand measures from Chinese authorities to halt illegal activities of their vessels in Latin American waters. Additionally, he stressed the importance of increasing fines and sanctions against companies operating illegally. This highlights the broader regional implications of IUU fishing and the imperative for collective action to address this issue.
China’s Dominance in Seafood Consumption
China’s status as the world’s largest consumer of seafood, with a population exceeding 1,380 million, underscores the significant impact of its global catches, which have grown by more than 20 percent in the last five years. The sheer scale of China’s distant water fishing fleet, which is three times larger than the fleets of Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Spain combined, further emphasizes the magnitude of China’s influence in the fishing industry.
Conclusion (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
The ongoing efforts by Argentina to combat Chinese IUU fishing reflect the broader challenges posed by the expansion of Chinese fishing activities and the imperative for international collaboration to address this issue effectively. The strategic focus on specific fishing seasons and the pursuit of partnerships with entities such as the U.S. Coast Guard underscore the multifaceted approach required to tackle the complex problem of IUU fishing.
28th Annual East Idaho Fly Tying/Fly Fishing Expo: An Overview (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
March 9, 2024
(source: eastidahonews.com – by EastIdahoNews.com staff)
Returning to Mountain America Center
The 28th Annual East Idaho Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Expo is set to return to the Mountain America Center in Idaho Falls on Friday and Saturday, March 22 and 23. Organized and hosted by the Snake River Cutthroats, Idaho Falls Chapter for both Trout Unlimited and Fly Fishers International, the expo is the Cutthroats’ primary fundraiser to support habitat conservation and education.
Exciting Features and Workshops
This year’s expo promises an impressive lineup of over 100 fly tiers, including national award winners, showcasing their tying techniques. A fly tying video theatre will provide an up-close view of notable tiers and their skills. Workshops on casting, tying, and fishing, including women’s and youth-specific sessions, will be available. Additionally, destination and technique presentations will be featured throughout the weekend.
Interactive Activities and Vendor Displays (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
One of the highlights of this year’s expo is the return of a large casting pond within Hero Arena, where casting experts will share their knowledge, and attendees can test new rods. The event will also host numerous vendors representing various aspects of the fly tying and fly-fishing community. Throughout the day, attendees can participate in a variety of raffles and silent auctions to support the cause.
Evening Events and Banquet
The evening activities inside the Blue Cross of Idaho Conference Center will include an exclusive screening of the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T), an original cinema exhibition of international fly fishing, on March 22. Furthermore, on March 23, the expo will feature a lively banquet with raffles, silent auction, and live auction. Both events are ticketed and will charge admission.
Admission and Event Schedule
Admission to the 28th Annual East Idaho Fly Tying/Fly Fishing Expo is free to the public. The expo will be open on Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the Expo or the Snake River Cutthroats, or to register for workshops or purchase tickets to the evening events, visit the expo’s website for further details.
The Legacy of Cedar Corks (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
March 10, 2024
(source: richmond-news.com – by Vikki Hui)
The Legacy of Cedar Corks
Did you know about the unique history of Sea Island as the sole commercial supplier of cedar corks on the West Coast? A 1960 photo recently surfaced on Facebook, depicting a fisherman using a gillnet equipped with wooden floats, also known as cedar corks. These corks were once a common sight in West Coast fisheries until the rise of plastic foam floats in the late 1950s. Interestingly, Thomas Goulding operated a cork mill at the Acme Cannery on Sea Island, producing these cedar corks.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
According to a blog post by Friends of Richmond Archives, Goulding established the mill in a small building on the west side of the cannery. Although the cannery ceased operations in 1918, its structures, net racks, and moorage continued to serve the local community, primarily comprising Japanese fishermen. Collaborating with his Japanese neighbors, Goulding constructed the building and equipment, including saws, lathes, and a reamer, entirely by hand.
Crafting Cedar Corks (Fishing News 20240304-20240310)
The cedar corks were made from Western red cedar logs supplied by coastal fishermen. These logs were cut into “cork bolts” measuring about four feet long before being fashioned into six or eight-inch blocks. Subsequently, a hole was bored through the center of the cork, smoothed to protect the fishing net ropes, and shaped into an oval using a lathe.
A Family Affair
Goulding’s granddaughter, Doreen Montgomery Braverman, occasionally assisted with the mill’s operations after school. She would thread the corks into twine in sets of 10, which were then dipped in hot tar before being dried. Remarkably, there was no road access to the mill, and the completed cedar corks were likely shipped out by boat.
Challenges and Demise
The mill’s workforce comprised Japanese and European fishermen, family members, neighbors, and friends. The forced removal of Japanese Canadians in 1942 led to supply difficulties at the mill. Ultimately, the mill and surrounding canneries were demolished during the expansion of the Vancouver International Airport around 1954, marking the end of an era.
