The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) has proposed changes to the Striped Bass Management Plan to continue rebuilding the striped bass resource and its iconic fishery. If you fish for striped bass, please share your comments with the folks who make management decisions! The addendum (Addendum II) is a follow up to the emergency action that created a slot limit of 28-31 inches. The purpose of the addendum is to establish measures to reduce striped bass fishing mortality.

It’s easy to submit comments. Simply put them in an email to comments@asmfc.org with the subject line: Striped Bass Draft Addendum II.

One point of contention at public comment meetings has been whether to allow for-hire (charter boat) patrons to have a special slot limit of 28-33 inches different from the slot limit for private anglers, which is known as a “mode split.” In general, this “mode split” has been supported by most charter boat associations and opposed by many private anglers and conservation groups.

Regarding the proposed changes, we are recommending measures that achieve the 14.5% reduction in total removals needed to achieve F target in 2024.

(1) maintaining the current  28-31” slot for the ocean fishery

(2) implementing a maximum recreational size in the Chesapeake Bay

(3) complementary reductions in the commercial fishery

(4) no mode splits, meaning same regulations for private and charter.

If you are looking for further guidance on your comments, check out:

The American Sportfishing Association’s Guide to Public Comments 

The Massachusetts Striped Bass Association’s Members’ Guide to Public Comments

The Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Guide to Public Comments