At the meeting of the Mass Marine Fisheries Commission on 3/9, the commission
had a majority vote to maintain "status quo" (rec = 1 fish at 28"; comm = 34" min
size, 750,000 lb quota, 3 weeks on, 1 week off with an opening around 7/6) for
the Striped Bass regs for 1998 in Massachusetts waters. This certainly reflects
the public opinion expressed at public hearing last month and can be viewed as
a positive short term step for Striped Bass management in the Commonwealth. CCA
supported "status quo" as did most every other group with an interest in stripers.
Thanks to all of you who attended meetings or submitted written comments.
Now we need to focus our attentions on 1999, when some major changes and increases
will be on the table. Stayed tuned here for updates from CCA. Hope all have a great
fishing season!