The much-anticipated stock assessment.....

[MikeToole]

Here is how the state reps voted on doing nothing. As expected Augustine was the number one person pushing to stop any changes. All of the New England states except for Mass voted to move forward with at least some form of action. The report noted that Maine and NH have seen a sharp decline in the numbers and I would say the same is true for much of the North shore. I put in about 75 nights in NH and compared to 2005 my numbers were down by about 70%.

Motion to Substitute:
Substitute motion to postpone further action on this addendum until completion of the next
benchmark stock assessment.
Motion made by Mr. Augustine and seconded by Mr. Johnson. Motion carries (Roll call Vote: In favor –
MA, NY, NJ, MD, PRFC, VA, NC, USFWS, NMFS; Opposed – ME, NH, RI, CT, PA, DE).

[Sea Flat]

It is such a shame. Obviously I am happy about the YOY class for the future, but unless something is done we will keep going through these drastic peaks and valleys. And, we are definitely heading toward (or are already in) a valley. All could be avoided if both rec. and comm. fisherman were made to take a little less. I do not even think that it would have to be drastic.

[BigFish]

No one in the AMSFC owns a rod and reel....I betcha!!!

[BigFish]

The stock assessment I performed for the entire season past flies in the face of the conclusions reached by the ASMFC!!! The sky has fallen....just wondering when it will hit bottom???