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Originally Posted by John_Madison CT  I'm only going to bring this up because it needs to be kept on a front page basis.
Does anyone here trust the recreational catch data compiled by the Fisheries?? Remember, they're using this data to set quota and to "control" the biomass. Many of your opinions on things are based on the understanding or trust that this data is somewhat accurate, but what if it's way way off? What if the Commercial guys catch 90% of the Fluke, would you then trust that the limits being put on us will facilitate any change in the biomass?
Just out of curiosity, how many of you have ever been asked to offer up your daily Fluke catch?
IMHO, this is an extremely important part of the argument. |
I know my posts were long winded, but I clearly agree with you wholeheartedly. I fear we all would cringe at the actual real numbers, should the NMFS care to get proper data....
The commercial numbers are pretty accurate, as the industry is monitored, and restricted, beyond belief. The VMS system virtually insures that the boats comings and goins are monitored carefully. If they even slow down to dragging speed in an area, it is registered. The VTRs are filled out every trip, and there are major penalties and stiff fines for falsification. I believe the data on their side is as accurate as the current system allows. THis system is heavily flawed, but that part of it is the most accurate, even if that is a stretch....What else do we have to work with?
As I stated, when and if they get recreational numbers and we find that we do not kill far more even then we are credited for, then I will change my views. Same holds true for the commercial side, but my better than average knowledge of the fluke fishery states this just isnt the casde. The sheer numbers of fluke out there says the comms can't be destroying the fluke fishery as too many people claim...
The mere fact that there is prevelant poaching in every fisherey by recreatrional pirates engaging in poaching of these species and the data is not even included, says my knowledge that 1+1=2 is also pretty sound when figuring the numbers are skewed in our favor, not the other way around.
I agree the system is flawed, but answer me this: How many average joe fluk fisherman have ever lifted a finger to fight for the cause? I know all too many that love to sit and gripe till the fluke retreat to deeper waters every year.....
I am a firm believeer that the stocks will be rebuilt, and am willing to abide by the regulations mandated by the science involved, regardless of how accurate or inaccurate it may be. Recreational fishing is just that, and it is far cheaper for even a well connected and able guy like me to buy my fish from a commercial fisherman.
What if saltwater fishing recreationally was to go the route of freshwater fishing??? Not such an unlikely scenario...Thankfully there are plenty of guys(especially sharkers) who could care less if they ever got to take home even one fish a year....they have the fishing in their blood, and are driven to go fishing, just as I am. I will continue to do my part on the water and off to provide not only a voice to these concerns, but certainly a platform for any junky like me looking to get his fix until they say I cannot. I ain't ever going to get rich doing what I do, but man am I one happy guy..
