The press release also states that the addendum was initiated in response to recent trends to the fishery and resource, including a 66% decline in the estimated recreational catch of stripers from 2006 to 2009, a 25% decline in estimated striped bass abundance from 2004 to 2008 and reduced recruitment (fewer fish entering the population) in recent years. Fishermen and environmentalists from states in the northern extent of the species’ range have expressed concern over the decreasing availability of striped bass, perhaps a result of the diminished water quality of Chesapeake Bay during the summer months that may be contributing to the increased prevalence of the fatal disease mycobacteriosis in stripers.
via boatinglocal.com
Recent Comments