Fishing News 20240422-20240428
Fishing News 20240422-20240428 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
A Marine Marvel: Ireland’s First Marine National Park Established (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
April 22, 2024
(source: thefishingdaily.com – by Oliver McBride)
The Irish government has announced the creation of a landmark environmental project: Páírc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, the country’s first Marine National Park. Encompassing a vast area of 70,000 acres, the park stretches across land and sea around Corca Dhuibhne in County Kerry. This new designation aims to preserve the region’s exceptional biodiversity and archaeological heritage, including Mount Brandon, the Owenmore River, and the Conor Pass.
Cause for Celebration, But Unease Among Fishermen
While the announcement was met with celebration by some, it has also sparked concerns among local fishermen and industry stakeholders. They fear that the creation of the Marine National Park could lead to stricter fishing regulations, potentially jeopardizing their livelihoods. One fisherman expressed frustration, arguing that such “Green” policies prioritize environmental protection over the well-being of coastal communities. He highlighted the lack of restrictions on Irish inshore fishing compared to other European countries, raising questions about fairness and the government’s approach to fisheries management.
Government Emphasizes Park’s Importance, Yet Concerns Linger (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
Ministers involved in the project, including Malcolm Noonan and Darragh O’Brien, emphasized the park’s ecological significance and its role in safeguarding crucial natural habitats. However, they haven’t fully addressed the anxieties of the fishing community. While acknowledging the park’s potential as a regional asset, Local Minister Norma Foley also recognized the fishermen’s worries.
Uncertainty Surrounds Fishing Industry’s Future
Despite government assurances that existing fishing practices won’t be disrupted, a sense of unease persists. The fishing community worries that the Marine National Park’s establishment might translate to restricted access to traditional fishing grounds in the long run. This apprehension reflects the ongoing tension between conservation efforts and economic considerations in Ireland’s coastal regions.
A Looming Debate: Conservation vs. Livelihoods
As stakeholders grapple with the implications of the new Marine National Park, a crucial debate is poised to intensify in the coming months. The question of how to best balance marine conservation with sustainable resource management, particularly in relation to the fishing industry, will likely be at the forefront of this discussion.
California’s Dwindling Salmon: A Fight for Survival (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
April 23, 2024
(source: cbsnews.com – by Ashley Nanfria)
California’s salmon populations are in crisis. Fishing for these iconic fish has been banned for two consecutive seasons, a harsh reality for both the ecosystem and the economy. This decline stems from a combination of factors, including dams, climate change, and habitat loss.
The Impact on Local Businesses
The fishing ban has dealt a significant blow to businesses that rely on salmon season. Sportfishing guide Rickey Acosta describes the struggle to adapt, with customers frustrated and bookings down. Even tackle shops are feeling the pinch, with salmon gear gathering dust on shelves. The economic impact extends beyond fishing, affecting hotels, gas stations, and the overall outdoor experience.
A Shadow of Their Former Glory
NOAA Fisheries is working to protect salmon populations by listing them as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act. This allows for the development of recovery plans, including habitat restoration and hatchery programs. Historically, California boasted thriving salmon populations, with billions returning to spawn. Today, those numbers are a mere shadow of what they once were.
Climate Change Worsens the Threat (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
Recent years of drought and rising water temperatures, fueled by climate change, have exacerbated the salmon’s plight. Juvenile fish survival rates plummet as water levels drop and temperatures rise. While a wetter year in 2023 offered a glimmer of hope, it will take several years for the salmon populations to rebound.
Dams and Habitat Loss: A Legacy of Change
The challenges salmon face extend beyond climate change. Dams built throughout California disrupt natural river flows and block access to historical spawning grounds. Additionally, the loss of floodplains has further degraded salmon habitat. These issues, dating back to the Gold Rush, have accumulated over time, leading to the current crisis.
A Path Forward: Dam Removal and Hatcheries
The future of California’s salmon hinges on a multi-pronged approach. Dam removal efforts, like the Klamath River project, aim to restore access to critical spawning grounds and floodplains. Additionally, hatcheries play a crucial role in boosting salmon populations by raising and releasing juvenile fish. Early successes in the San Joaquin River offer a promising example.
Collaboration is Key (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
From state agencies to local businesses, everyone is working towards a common goal: bringing salmon back. Reversing the damage will require a long-term commitment to restoring ecosystems and undoing past mistakes. The loss of these iconic fish would be a tragedy for California, and the fight for their survival continues.
Looking Ahead: A Season on Hold and Hope for the Future
The National Marine Fisheries Service is expected to finalize the commercial and recreational salmon fishing closure in mid-May. This ban will remain in place until the next season meeting in April 2025. Meanwhile, the California Fish and Game Commission will decide on potential closures for inland salmon fisheries. The hope, as expressed by Rickey Acosta, is to find solutions, rebuild populations, and once again enjoy the thrill of catching salmon on California’s waters.
Port Renfrew in Peril: Proposed Fishing Closure Threatens Community (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
April 24, 2024
(source: cbc.ca – by Roszan Holmen)
A small Vancouver Island community, Port Renfrew, faces an uncertain future. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is considering a significant expansion of a fishing closure zone, raising fears of economic devastation.
Protecting Whales, Harming Livelihoods?
The proposed closure aims to safeguard the endangered southern resident killer whales, dependent on salmon for food. DFO is expected to make a final decision later this month. However, recreational fishing guides in Port Renfrew believe the new restrictions would eliminate viable chinook salmon fishing grounds – the very reason tourists visit the area.
Desmond Hatchard, a guide with over 15 years of experience, fears the closure would cripple his business and render his boat worthless. Port Renfrew’s year-round population of roughly 250 people relies heavily on the fishing industry and related tourism.
Tourism Industry Braces for Impact
Chris Tucker, president of the local chamber of commerce, warns of a “massive” economic blow if the regulations pass. Port Renfrew, once a logging community, now thrives on recreational fishing and the hospitality sector it fuels. Tucker estimates fishing charters contribute $26 million to the local economy during the five-month season, with tourist dollars flowing to hotels and restaurants.
The industry urgently needs answers. With the season starting in less than a month, uncertainty regarding permissible fishing areas creates significant hardship. “No other industry in Canada faces such short notice or a complete lack of notice regarding major regulatory changes,” argues Tucker.
Frustration and Lack of Transparency (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
The fishing community expresses frustration with DFO’s lack of transparency regarding the scientific basis for the closure. Matt Wiley, a local sport-fishing charter operator, emphasizes his commitment to sustainability. He questions the data used by DFO, highlighting the abundance of returning chinook to several B.C. rivers.
However, conservation biologist Misty MacDuffee advises caution against relying solely on recent data. While acknowledging a strong chinook return to the Middle Fraser River last year, she emphasizes the unknowns surrounding the cause and future trends.
Conflicting Views on Whale Activity
DFO has presented maps outlining crucial foraging areas for the southern resident killer whales. Fishing is already prohibited in the Swiftsure Bank and nearby areas of the Juan de Fuca Strait. The proposed expansion would extend the closure zone right up to Port Renfrew’s shoreline.
The fishing community vehemently contests the modelling behind these maps. They rarely encounter the endangered whales near the shore, making the proposed closure illogical and detrimental, according to Wayne Friesen, chair of the B.C. Recreational Fishing Association.
Seeking Solutions Through Collaboration
Alistair MacGregor, the area’s Member of Parliament, is sponsoring a petition in support of the fishing guides. He urges DFO to consider their expertise. MacGregor recognizes the fishing community’s desire to contribute to conservation efforts while preserving their livelihood, a critical lifeline for Port Renfrew.
Live Bait Debate: Ethics or Efficiency? (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
April 25, 2024
(source: dailyherald.com – by Steve Sarley)
The use of live bait in fishing ignites heated discussions online. Mention it on social media, and some might react with disapproval, almost as if you confessed to a culinary crime.
To Each Their Own: Ethics and Enjoyment
Opponents of live bait seem to believe the practice lacks a certain sporting element. However, a valid fishing license and adherence to size and catch regulations should be the key factors. If those are met, anglers should be free to choose their bait.
Easy Catch? Not Exactly
Some believe live bait makes fishing “too easy.” This notion is demonstrably false. While live bait can sometimes entice a fish, success is never guaranteed.
Beyond the Basics: The Appeal of Artificial Lures (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
While I occasionally dabble in live bait, I generally prefer the challenge of using artificial lures. They’re more cost-effective in the long run, assuming you don’t lose them all! However, mastering lures requires a higher level of skill. Constant casting and retrieving are essential, along with understanding how lure movement affects depth and speed. Live bait, on the other hand, often involves casting and waiting for a bite.
Practicalities and Tournament Restrictions
Proper care for live bait is crucial. They need to be kept cool or aerated, or you might as well throw your money away. Some anglers avoid live bait because tournaments often prohibit it. Since tournament fishing isn’t my main focus, that’s not a concern for me.
Spence Petros’ Sage Advice
Legendary angler Spence Petros once questioned my lack of success after a particularly slow day fishing with a tournament pro for smallmouth bass. When I explained our lure choices, he offered a simple solution: live leeches. My excuse – fishing with someone who didn’t use live bait – didn’t faze him. He reminded me that the goal was to catch fish, not just hone my casting skills.
Live Bait’s Allure: A Bite Guaranteed (Almost) (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
In my experience, a nightcrawler cast anywhere in Lake Geneva would likely be met with a bite before it even hit the bottom. A crappie, perch, or rock bass would be quick to investigate. Artificial lures, unfortunately, can’t boast the same universal appeal.
Principles of Catch and Release: A Guide for Conservation-Minded Anglers (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
April 26, 2024
(source: bassmaster.com- by Laura Ann Foshee)
For passionate anglers, catch and release is more than just a technique; it’s a commitment to the sport’s future and environmental responsibility. This guide outlines key practices to ensure you’re doing your part for fish conservation.
Time Out of Water Matters
Minimize stress on the fish by keeping it in the water whenever possible. If you plan to capture a photo, have your camera ready. Lift the fish quickly for a picture and then return it to the water swiftly. Every second counts for the fish’s survival.
Proper Handling is Essential
Never grab a fish by its mouth or let it hang vertically. This can cause internal injuries. Instead, cradle the fish horizontally with one hand supporting its head and the other supporting its tail. This distributes weight evenly and avoids harming its organs and spine.
Removing the Hook Carefully (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
If the hook is lodged deeply or difficult to remove, use a designated hook remover or pliers. If the hook is truly embedded, prioritize the fish’s well-being and cut the line as close to the mouth as possible. Fish are surprisingly resilient, and the hook will eventually dislodge naturally.
Reviving a Fatigued Fish
Occasionally, a fish might be weak and require some help. To revive it, hold it upright in the water and gently move it back and forth. This movement helps water flow over its gills, allowing it to breathe and regain its strength. Once the fish regains its energy and struggles to return to the water, release it with confidence, knowing it has a good chance of survival.
Sharing Knowledge for a Sustainable Future
Spreading awareness about responsible fishing practices within your angling community is vital. Educating others on these catch-and-release techniques ensures the long-term health of aquatic ecosystems. By promoting these practices, we contribute to a thriving environment for fish populations, not just for ourselves, but for future generations of anglers as well.
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Remember, catch and release goes beyond simply putting the fish back in the water. It’s about ensuring a healthy future for the fish and the entire aquatic ecosystem. By following these guidelines, you become a responsible angler, promoting not only fish conservation but also the overall health of our waterways.
Safety First: A Reminder for Solo Anglers (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
April 27, 2024
(source: capegazette.com- by Eric Burnley)
The recent deaths of two fishermen venturing out alone serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safety precautions.
Lost at Sea: A North Carolina Tragedy
In North Carolina, a man embarked on a solo fishing trip on his center console boat. When he failed to return as expected, a large-scale search by the Coast Guard and other agencies yielded no sign of the fisherman or his vessel. The discovery of the boat days later, with lines out and outriggers deployed, fueled speculation that the man might have fallen overboard while the boat was on autopilot.
Closer to Home: A Maryland Incident
A similar tragedy unfolded on the Elk River in Maryland. A young man set out for a solo fishing trip in his center console boat. Authorities located the boat unoccupied, and a dive team subsequently recovered his body nearby.
Safety Tips for Solo Anglers (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
These incidents underscore the importance of safety measures for anglers venturing out alone. Always wear a life jacket, especially when navigating small, tippy boats like kayaks. Modern life jackets, like the CO2 vests, are comfortable and unobtrusive, making them a practical choice.
Sharing the Experience: A Lesson Learned**
The author acknowledges his past practice of solo fishing trips without a life jacket. He now urges solo anglers to prioritize safety by wearing a life jacket at all times. He emphasizes caution when setting lines and working near the boat’s edges. In case of a medical emergency, using the radio on Channel 16 to call for help and activating an EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) are crucial steps.
Remember: Safety Ensures Continued Enjoyment
These unfortunate events highlight the unpredictable nature of fishing trips. Taking safety precautions allows anglers to return home and enjoy future fishing adventures.
Team Rats on da Cheese Claims Victory in Suncoast Saltwater Shootout (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
April 28, 2024
(source: bradenton.com- by JON CHAPMAN SPECIAL TO THE HERALD)
The Manatee County fishing scene kicked off its 2024 season with a familiar team taking first place in the Suncoast Saltwater Shootout, the opening tournament of the Manasota Flooring Triple Crown Series.
Facing Challenges, Focusing on Strategy
Team Rats on da Cheese, known for their dedication and scouting efforts, weren’t intimidated by the high caliber of competition. “We put in the hard work to be prepared,” explained angler Justin Rudrud. He emphasized their commitment to scouting potential fishing spots while juggling full-time jobs. While acknowledging the charitable aspect of the series, Rudrud highlighted their competitive spirit.
Enduring Tough Conditions for a Winning Catch
Despite challenging fishing conditions, Team Rats on da Cheese persevered. While trout catches were decent, redfish proved scarce, and snook bites were even rarer. However, the team stuck to their plan and managed to land a respectable redfish and a decent-sized trout before nightfall.
Cold Night, Big Catch (Fishing News 20240422-20240428)
Night brought not only slow fishing but also bone-chilling temperatures. However, Team Rats on da Cheese’s resilience paid off with a crucial snook catch – a 37-inch whopper. The rest of the night was spent searching for upgrades, hampered by the cold.
Rising Sun Brings Renewal
Saturday’s sunrise offered a much-needed reprieve from the cold. The team secured a larger trout but couldn’t find bigger redfish or snook. Just as time was winding down, they landed an even bigger trout, ultimately claiming the tournament’s largest.
Victory by a Hair (or Two Inches)
With a combined slam length of 95 inches after traversing nearly 150 miles, Team Rats on da Cheese edged out Team Godzilla by a mere two inches. Their victory secured them a $3,250 prize.
Other Tournament Highlights
Team Godzilla took home the award for the largest redfish at 34 inches. Team Palmetto Bait and Tackle finished third with a total slam length of 90 inches. Fourth place went to Desire Diesel, who also reeled in the biggest snook, measuring 42 inches.
The Manasota Flooring Triple Crown Series continues with the Annual Crosthwait Memorial Fishing Tournament next month. This larger tournament features inshore, nearshore, offshore, junior, and spearfishing divisions.