The point regarding suspect data can be used in two ways, Mike. As far as we know, recreational take is higher than the reported
amounts. We don't know. We DO know, however, that comms caught a finite, well-managed
amount. As to your numbers of commercials, what a crock. I fish legitimately,
but, as you correctly pointed out, many "comms" in the bass fishery use it as an adjunct to
help pay for their other recreational pursuits. This is precisely the reason why a smaller commercial limit is assinine. Any fool can
catch large numbers of 28" fish. Try to locate and catch large numbers of 34" and larger and you have a different situation
altogether. If you want to propose some sort of limited entry scheme, which would help me, but I oppose, fine, do so.
Don't, however, make claims of one sector harming the fishery, then, when logic proves
you wrong, backpedal and whine, it's not fair. Fariness has nothing to do with the
fishery as it is comprised. If recs were under a quota system, as we are, and comms
got a larger share, you may have a point. Recs aren't and you don't.
. As to your point regarding a rod and reel fisherman's ability to
"decimate" a school, then move on, HUH?!? The fish have to take the bait, we don't have nets.
I have been fishing these things for over 25 years, both recreationally, commercially
and as a charter cap and I have niether seen nor heard of anyone
accomplishing such a thing. That is fantasy...
CMP