black sea bass closure
 

Why is BSB fishing closed, at least in RI, for another week or so? This closure isn't an annual thing, is it? I'm pretty sure I've done trips to Block at this time of year for stripers and BSB. I sit a mating protection thing?

The answer is....

https://youtu.be/RDrfE9I8_hs
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

well played.

States were required to make cuts, this is how RI got the bag/size limit it was given this year. If I am not mistaken the RI state closure mimics the closure in federal waters. It's still open in CT & NY state waters, but closed since August in MA. :huh:

Thanks Neb ,,, LMAO

Thank you. I try. :hihi:
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

I dont get the sea bass regs. these fish are as abundant as ive ever seen. They are making fluke fishing harder every year. Anyone have the same thought?

Yes and no. I pick through a TON of shorts, but good size sea bass are tougher (for me) to find near shore.

You are correct, the state decided to close the same time as the feds to try and prevent the flustercluck we had last year, with boats getting summonses while returning from Block Island. I tried to get the feds to change the closure, since its intended to restrict the catch in the southern region, but no one wanted to stick their neck out.

Do you think we'll see a 2018 Wave 1 fishery here in New England like they're pushing for in the MAFMC?

Maybe. IMHO it depends on whether or not any boats are interested in the fishery. Its going to be very limited. Historically almost all of the boats in the wave I fishery were out of NJ.