Sent in by Fin, thanks.




2003 - another article that talks about the need for the Gamefish Bill, back in 2003......
As I understand it.......Back then, commercial fishing was responsible for a good portion of the fishing pressure. They lobbied hard for a greater increase in quota, and they got it.

http://www.saltwatersportsman.com/st...duced-congress
Striped Bass Game Fish Bill Reintroduced in Congress

July, 2003

A New Jersey Congressman has reintroduced a bill that would prohibit commercial harvesting of striped bass in coastal waters and the exclusive economic zone. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), the ranking Democrat on the House Sub-committee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife and Oceans, has long advocated federal striped bass game fish status.

Pallone recently disagreed with actions by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission that increased the commercial striped bass quota by 42 percent and spawned new discussions about opening federal waters to striper fishing.