Talk about dysfunctional - NC flounder 2023: two different season, two different limits

 Full article from the Carolina Sportsman and Writer Jerry Dilsaver

If you want to discourage recreational fishermen from bringing all that money to the NC coast, this is a great way to do it!!!

 A major part of the problem arises from fishermen needing to travel through waters where the season is closed to fish in waters where the season is open. They’re fine on the way to fish, but any flounder they keep becomes an illegal catch when they travel through the closed waters on their way home. Many of the creeks that will be open for flounder fishing during the September 1-14 WRC season don’t have marinas or launching ramps and fishermen must cross closed waters to get there and back.

 

Microplastics make shrimp more vulnerable to deadly disease

Study finds that plastic particles prolong virus survival in larval shrimp and impair their defenses

by Priyanka Runwal

August 8, 2023

Tiny specks of plastic drifting in waterbodies are a growing environmental hazard. Shrimp and other critters ingest the plastic particles, mistaking them for food. These microplastics can accumulate in their guts, impairing the animals’ growth and behavior. Recent research suggests their health may be further compromised as plastics provide surfaces for myriad microorganisms, including disease-causing pathogens, to congregate....

https://cen.acs.org/environment/pollution/Microplastics-make-shrimp-vulnerable-deadly/101/web/2023/08?utm_source=Essential&utm_medium=Newsletter&utm_campaign=CEN

NCDMF announces 2023 flounder season dates - The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries today announced that the 2023 recreational flounder season will open at 12:01 a.m. Sept. 15 and close at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 29.

This article was taken from the Carolina Sportsman Magazine

The season will open with the following provisions for both the recreational hook-and-line and gig fisheries:

A one-fish per person per day creel limit.

A 15-inch total length minimum size limit (from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail).

Harvest of flounder with a Recreational Commercial Gear License will be prohibited.

The season and possession limits are set annually to keep the fishery within the recreational quota approved by the Marine Fisheries Commission in the N.C. Southern Flounder Fishery Management Plan Amendment 3. The plan also specifies any overage to the recreational Total Allowable Catch (TAC) requires a pound for pound payback subtracted from the following year’s allowable harvest. In 2022, the recreational TAC of 170,655 pounds was exceeded by 56,340 pounds.

For 2023, this means the TAC for the recreational season will be 114,315 pounds.

Discard mortality is accounted for in the estimates of TAC. During 2022, dead discards both during and outside of the southern flounder recreational season contributed significantly to the total removals from this fishery and the overage in the TAC. For this reason, the Division discourages anglers from targeting flounder for catch-and-release after they have caught their one-fish limit or when the season is closed. During the open season, the Division also discourages anglers from high grading (retaining a fish until a larger one is caught) as this increases post-release mortality leading to additional dead discards.

State certifies Blueline Tilefish as new state record by: NC Marine Fisheries Posted: Jun 26, 2023 / 01:59 PM EDT Updated: Jun 26, 2023 / 04:26 PM EDT

 MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. – The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries recently certified a new state record Blueline Tilefish, also called Gray Tilefish (Caulolatilus microps). 

Thomas Adkins of Sutherland, Va., caught the 17-pound, 1.9-ounce fish near Tower B, offshore of Nags Head on June 11. The previous state record Blueline Tilefish weighed 16-pounds, 8-ounces and was caught off Oregon Inlet in 2004.

Adkins was fishing with his father when he landed the fish using cut bait, and a Shimano 700 reel on a Trevala rod.

Adkin’s fish measured 36 inches total length (from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail) and had a 20.5-inch girth. For more information on state record fish, go to the division’s State Saltwater Records webpage or contact the North Carolina Saltwater Fishing Tournament staff at saltwater.citations@ncdenr.gov.

As The Trout Bite Slows on the Coast

North Carolina's coastal waters are a haven for avid anglers seeking the thrill of catching speckled trout. These prized sportfish offer not only a challenging pursuit but also a delicious treat for the dinner table. However, understanding the environmental factors that influence their behavior and knowing the best temperature for speckled trout fishing can significantly enhance your chances of a successful outing. In this article, we explore the optimal temperature range for targeting speckled trout in the waters of North Carolina.

The Importance of Water Temperature:

Water temperature plays a crucial role in the feeding patterns, spawning behavior, and movement of speckled trout. As cold-blooded creatures, they rely on the surrounding water temperature to regulate their metabolism and activity levels. While speckled trout can tolerate a range of temperatures, certain thresholds are known to trigger their feeding instincts and increase their overall activity, making these periods prime for anglers.

The Best Temperature Range:

In North Carolina, the ideal temperature range for speckled trout fishing typically falls between 55°F (13°C) and 70°F (21°C). During this period, speckled trout become more active, aggressively feeding on baitfish and shrimp, making them more susceptible to various fishing techniques.

Early Spring and Late Fall:

During early spring, when water temperatures start to climb above the 55°F (13°C) mark, speckled trout begin to emerge from their winter hiding spots and actively feed. They move from deeper waters to shallower areas, such as estuaries, creeks, and grass flats, to take advantage of the increased food availability. As the water warms further, speckled trout will be found in abundance throughout North Carolina's coastal waters.

Similarly, late fall offers excellent speckled trout fishing opportunities as the water temperature cools down from the summer months. During this time, speckled trout feed voraciously, fattening up for the winter ahead. As temperatures hover around the upper end of the preferred range, targeting speckled trout becomes highly rewarding.

Summer Challenges:

While summer may present challenges for speckled trout fishing due to the higher water temperatures, anglers can still find success by adapting their strategies. Speckled trout seek cooler, oxygen-rich waters during this time, often retreating to deeper channels, inlets, and areas near the ocean. Early mornings and late evenings, when the water temperature drops slightly, can be the most productive periods for summer speckled trout fishing.

Winter Considerations:

During the colder winter months, when water temperatures fall below the optimal range, speckled trout become less active and tend to retreat to deeper waters or seek out thermal refuges such as heated discharge areas near power plants. However, pockets of activity can still be found in the relatively warmer waters of tidal creeks and rivers, where speckled trout continue to feed.

To maximize your chances of catching speckled trout in North Carolina, paying close attention to water temperature is essential. While the optimal range for targeting these prized fish falls between 55°F (13°C) and 70°F (21°C), understanding their behavior in different seasons and adapting your strategies accordingly can lead to a rewarding fishing experience. So, grab your gear, study the water temperature, and head out to the coastal waters of North Carolina for an unforgettable speckled trout adventure.

Pay Attention - Supplement A to amendment 1 of the Striped Mullet Fishery Management Plan, and the goal and objectives for the Spotted Seatrout Fishery Management Plan Amendment 1.

 Commission to vote on rule change to help protect shellfish

05/15/2023 by Staff Report

North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission members are scheduled to vote on suspending a rule that would help protect shellfish and on amendments to striped mullet and spotted seatrout fishery management plans during an in-person meeting later this month in Beaufort.

The meeting at the Beaufort Hotel, 2440 Lennoxville Road, is set to begin at 6 p.m. May 24, and at 9 a.m. both May 25 and May 26. The meeting will be livestreamed on YouTube. A link will be posted on the Marine Fisheries Commission webpage and a recording will be available after the meeting.

The North Carolina coast is spectacular. When you purchase a North Carolina Coastal Federation license plate, you help keep our coast healthy and beautiful. Learn more! 

The Division of Marine Fisheries recently put in place a shellfish relocation permit. The proclamation SF-5-2023 signed May 4 requires a permit to relocate shellfish found in areas closed to harvest where shellfish would be destroyed due to dredging, construction or other development to designated relocation sites.

Commission members are being asked to vote on suspending indefinitely their rule that a person applying for the shellfish relocation permit must have a valid standard or retired standard commercial fishing license with a shellfish endorsement or a shellfish license.

Suspending subsection (4) of section (e) in procedures and requirements to obtain permits will allow for the “new Shellfish Relocation Permit established by Proclamation SF-5-2023 to be fully utilized,” according to the division.

Additionally, members are to consider adopting supplement A to amendment 1 of the Striped Mullet Fishery Management Plan, and the goal and objectives for the Spotted Seatrout Fishery Management Plan Amendment 1.

PBS North Carolina’s State of Change initiative examines the impact of climate change on coastal and inland communities across the state and how communities and individuals have responded with innovative solutions. Learn more and watch digital shorts and climate portraits.

Also on the agenda is a vote on a notice of text for proposed rules related to data collection and harassment prevention for the conservation of marine and estuarine resources, oyster sanctuary rule changes, and conforming rule changes for shellfish relay program and shellfish leases and franchises.

The proposed rules then go out for public hearing.

The commission is scheduled to hear updates on false albacore data and the estuarine striped bass stock assessment, presentations on allocation use as a fisheries management tool, and blue crab fisheries management plan amendment 3 adaptive management revision.

Public comment

The commission will hold in-person public comment sessions at 6 p.m. May 24, and near the beginning of the meeting May 25. The public can sign up at the hotel before either comment period. Bring at least 12 copies of any handouts for commission members. To accommodate as many speakers as possible, the chair will limit each speaker to three minutes.

To submit written comments online, use the form on the Marine Fisheries Commission Meetings webpage. To send comments by mail, address the envelope to May 2023 Marine Fisheries Commission Meeting Comments, P.O Box 769, Morehead City, NC 28557, or drop the comments off at the Division of Marine Fisheries’ Morehead City headquarters office at 3441 Arendell St., Morehead City.

The deadline to submit written comments for this meeting is 4 p.m. Monday, May 22.

https://coastalreview.org/2023/05/commission-to-vote-on-rule-change-to-help-protect-shellfish/

Reelin’ for Research Organization Raises $1 Million

 Reelin’ for Research Organization Raises $1 million in funds for cancer research during 15th annual fishing tournament

KAITLYN HARDY NEWS TIMES May 8, 2023 

Children pose with the $1 million check highlighting the money raised for UNC Children’s Hospital in cancer research (Richard Montana, Founder of R4F photo)

MOREHEAD CITY – Richard Montana, chairman and founder of charity organization Reelin’ for Research, watched $1 million come in from the organization’s 15th annual fishing tournament for cancer research this past weekend at Jack’s Waterfront Grill and Bar in Morehead City.

Every year since 2009, along Jack’s Waterfront, Reelin’ for Research, one of the biggest charity organizations along the East Coast, holds a one-day offshore and inshore fishing tournament, where all proceeds and annual funds go toward North Carolina’s Children’s Hospital for Pediatric and Cancer research. The group has been able to raise more than $6.2 million over the last 15 years.

Montana grew up fishing in Greensboro with his dad, uncle and college buddies and would hold fishing tournaments for fun for him and his friends during the summers.

https://www.carolinacoastonline.com/news_times/article_98a4e7ce-edca-11ed-b54c-776a746208d2.html

May 12 and May 13 Marine Fisheries to share informational clinics at Jennette’s Pier

 

Jennette’s Pier

Swing by Jennette’s Pier to visit with North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries staff and marine patrol officers.

They will be available to discuss fishing regulations, ethical angling and the N.C. Saltwater Fishing Tournament Friday, May 12 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, May 13 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Demonstrations throughout the days will cover topics such as rigging, fish handling, otolith (ear bone) extraction and cover the basics of scientific data collection.

Everyone is welcome and we look forward to seeing you there!

Join NC Coastal Conservation Association

 CCA NC is a community of conservationists and recreational anglers working to promote sound management of public trust marine and estuarine resources to protect those resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) is a non-profit organization comprised of 17 coastal state chapters spanning the Gulf of Mexico, Pacific, and Atlantic seaboards. CCA’s strength is drawn from the tens of thousands of recreational saltwater anglers who make up its membership. From Puget Sound to South Texas to the upper reaches of Maine, CCA’s grassroots influence is felt through state capitals, U.S. Congress and, most importantly, in the conservation and restoration of our coastal marine resources.

Join https://ccanc.org/join-ccanc/

Shameful NC Fisheries Managment - wonder why commercial fishers get such biased help?

Is anybody officially investigating this???

Preliminary estimates for 2022 indicate that the harvest of 143,000 lbs of southern flounder by the recreational sector will keep them under the harvest quota. However, the estimated releases of 2,500,000 fish will translate to roughly 250,000 dead discards, which will count against the rec sector. The only question now is what mass will the Division assign for these fish? At 2 lbs/fish, 500,000 lbs of dead discards shuts the public out for ~3 years. At 0.5lbs/fish, 125,000 lbs of discards would give the public a VERY SHORT season in 2023.

So, let's see if we still have this story straight - Southern flounder have been overfished for decades, with commercial harvest accounting for over 70% of the total harvest historically. (During the 20-year time frame, 1981-2001, the commercial harvest of Southern flounder accounted for 80-100% of the total harvest in the years leading up to the first Southern flounder stock assessment that indicated for the first time that the stock was overfished.) So, with only 30% of the Southern flounder quota, the fishing public exceeded its allowable catch in 2022, which means a shortened season this year (likely two weeks) due to the rebuilding plan, and no access to ocean flounder species. But commercial harvest will continue on Southern flounder this fall, and they can catch almost 3 million pounds of summer flounder in the ocean. But none for the fishing public.

Recently, DMF Director Rawls approved a pound net request in which 8 of 11 proposed sets for flounder in West Bay were granted. According to her office, they were approved because she had no legal means to deny them. That's curious because as Director, she has pretty wide ranging proclamation authority. Either way, how does it make sense to expand the commercial fishery for southern flounder while it is depleted and being rebuilt?

Welcome to North Carolina.

Host boaters being sought for wounded vets fishing event May 4th

 Kids aren’t the only people who need to go fishing.

So, too, do wounded and disabled veterans. And it’s for that reason that Operation North State exists.

Each year, ONS holds nine fishing festivals across the state for those wounded warriors, including at Chatham County’s Jordan Lake. This year’s local event is Thursday, May 4, and organizers need some help.

Fifty vets have signed up to fish and, so far, only about half the needed host boats and boaters are on board. ONS requires a vet and caregiver per boat to accompany the host for a day of fishing, snacks, dinner and fellowship.

The local festival kicks off at 7 a.m. at the Farrington Point Boat Ramp off SR 1008 and is free for everyone involved. Rods, reels, life vests, bait and snacks are provided by ONS and fishing licenses are waived for the day. No alcohol is allowed and at the end of the day, everyone is treated to dinner at nearby Mt. Carmel Baptist Church.

ONS is an all-volunteer organization founded several years ago by retired Winston-Salem businessman Terry Snyder. 

“One day, some friends and I were sort of fussing about how little is done for our veterans and the light came on in our minds and I said, ‘what are we doing for them?’” Snyder said. “That was the start.”

Since the first festivals in 2013, ONS has grown to the nine freshwater lake festivals, a deep-sea fishing excursion, trips to professional ball games, golf and bicycle outings and more. 

“Really, anything that helps our vets is what we’re after,” Snyder says. “Some of these folks are dealing with significant health and emotional needs, and the therapy of getting out on the water works miracles. Not all of them have the benefit of support and ONS helps fill in those gaps.”

All the funding and gifts that come to ONS go to its programs. There is no salary or administrative costs other than postage and some printing expenses. 

“It literally is all volunteer,” Snyder said. “The disabled vets are super excited to have this opportunity for a day on the water. And, likewise, our host boaters tell us how honored they are to be part of the Festival and have the opportunity to give back and say ‘thanks’ to these warriors.”

There’s no entry fee for host boaters and it’s easy to register to host. Interested boaters can send an email to Snyder at mailbox@operationnorthstate.com or call 336-764-5967. Provide your name, email address, telephone number and your North Carolina hometown. Host boaters must have liability insurance coverage on their boat. 

North Carolina Cancels Spring Flounder Season

 Preliminary data from the 2022 recreational flounder season, which took place during September 2022, showed that recreational anglers exceeded the Total Allowable Catch quota for southern flounder by 25,000 pounds.

https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/news/north-carolina-cancels-flounder-season/

National Park Week

Love national parks? There's a holiday for that! Join us for #National Park Week, a nine-day celebration of everything "parks". Not just about more than 400 national parks nationwide of different shapes, sizes, and types. Also, discover what the National Park Service does through our programs and partners to preserve natural and cultural heritage and provide recreational opportunities in places across the country—and even the world!National Park Week is happening April 22 to April 30 this year. Entrance fees will be waived on April 22, 2023, to kick off the celebration and to encourage everyone to enjoy their national parks in person. National Park Service parks, programs, and partners will host events and activities all week! Follow National Park Week on social media and join the fun all week using #NationalParkWeek.
https://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/social-media.htm