One fish, two fish: QAC opposes recreational rockfish restrictions

CENTREVILLE — At its May 28 meeting, the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners approved signing a letter in opposition against new measures from the Atlantic State Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) earlier this year, limiting the number of rockfish caught recreationally.

A letter to Gov. Wes Moore outlined the commissioners’ opposition to the new measures limiting the Atlantic striped bass bag limits as the ASMFC has reduced the recreational catch limit of striped bass, also known as rockfish, from two fish to one.

“Everybody is only allowed one fish, and it has to be a slot fish, between 19 and 25 inches,” Commissioner President Jim Moran said.

The economic fallout from the reduction and adverse effects will be seen on charter boat captains as well as country restaurants, hotels, local business, and the overall local tourism industry, Commissioner Phil Dumenil said.

The reduction of fish that can be kept has resulted in far less number of charter trips booked, he said.

“People aren’t going to come down from Philly or Washington or Baltimore to spend a day out on the Bay fishing for rockfish and get to keep one,” Dumenil said.

With the letter, the commissioners hope to get some traction and ultimately a reversal on the decision, Dumenil said.

Agreeing with the letter of opposition, Moran also noted on the other side of the matter, the Maryland fishery was in trouble and needed help.

The commissioners noted appreciation of Moore’s previous visit with the agricultural industry and extended an invitation to visit local watermen for the same treatment.