Va fishermen pushing for proposed change to 3 mile EEZ
(Courtesy of Finchaser)
This is why it's important to pay attention to the happenings in other states, people.
Sport fishermen in Va currently are discussing a proposal to change the EEZ boundaries from 3 to 12 miles. Who cares and why are they doing it?
Because they found out that the bulk of the striped bass are around 10 miles offshore there, fattening up on the plentiful sandeels, bunker, and herring there.
They don't think it's fair that they seem to be restricted by the 3 mile EEZ as put into place by President Bush.
So here we have a proposal to change it to 12 miles. :kooky:
If Va can do it, why can't all the states along the Eastern seaboard do it?
Hence we have a dilemma here. What makes them so special? I don't have an answer for this one, but wanted to make you people aware. Right now things are only being discussed. If there is any momentum from these discussions, that will be presented to legislators. I don't understand how they can circumvert federal law on this. I would appreciate if some could fill in more of these details.
For now, here's the poll that's circulating:
2007 Executive order signed by George Bush
I did a search. This is the jist of the gamefish bill started in 2007 and passed oct 17, 2008.
It would appear they have to go against this decree to fish beyond 3 miles. The language here talks about bass not being used for commercial use, so maybe they recreational fishermen will be able to get around it. I wonder if they can actually do that in their legislature. It would be wrong if they decided to pass it.
Federal Government Confirms Red Drum and Striped Bass Gamefish Status
Announcement affirms 2007 Executive Order signed by President Bush
Alexandria, Virginia- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NFMS) announced in the October 17, 2008, Federal Register that the requirements set by Executive Order 13449 which established striped bass and red drum as gamefish have been fulfilled.
NMFS determined that the current rules banning the sale of striped bass and red drum caught in federal waters in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico achieve the intent of Executive Order 13449, signed by President George W. Bush on October 20, 2007.
"This ruling ensures that striped bass and red drum will survive and grow for generations of anglers to enjoy," ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman said. "We are very pleased that NMFS has completed this ruling ensuring that federal waters will be closed to commercial fishing for these important gamefish."
Executive Order 13449 established gamefish status for striped bass and red drum in federal waters. Gamefish status means that the two species are provided regulations and management measures to promote their well-being as a fish sought for recreational fishing and not for sale if caught in federal waters.
This announcement insures the recreational, economic and environmental benefits of two of the most popular gamefish in the United States. The order protects the fisheries in federal waters from commercial harvest, which include three miles to 200 miles offshore. The Order does not cover state waters, which go from the coastline to three miles offshore. Many states have conferred gamefish status for these species and the executive order encourages those that have not conferred gamefish status to do so. The announcement on October 17, 2008 signifies that the regulatory requirements of the executive order were fulfilled.
