01/26/2025
Here is a letter you can use to send to the Fish and Game Commission. Just copy and past into your email: Dear Members of the California Fish and Game Commission,
I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the potential establishment of a no-take season for barred sand bass fishing from June 1 to August 31, as reflected in the proposed amendment to Section 28.30, item 23 on the agenda for the February 13, 2025, meeting of the California Fish and Game Commission meeting. After reviewing the information available, I believe the decision lacks sufficient scientific basis and fails to consider the broader ecological, social, and economic implications. I respectfully urge the Commission to avoid a no-take season for barred sand bass based on the following points:
1. Catch Rates Are Not Indicative of Species Decline: Catch rates alone should not be used as a definitive indicator of population health. Many anglers and sport fishing operators have shifted their focus to other species, such as bluefin tuna, which have become increasingly abundant during much of the fishing season. This shift in effort has likely contributed to the perceived decline in barred sand bass catches and does not necessarily reflect an actual reduction in the population.
2. Lack of Recent Stock Assessments: There has been no recent comprehensive stock assessment of barred sand bass to determine the current state of the population. Without updated and rigorous scientific data, any regulatory action risks being based on outdated or incomplete information. A thorough stock assessment should be conducted before imposing a zero-take season for barred sand bass.
3. Failure to Acknowledge Migratory Behavior: Reports from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) do not adequately reflect the migratory nature of barred sand bass. These fish are known to move between habitats and regions, making localized data potentially misleading. A broader and more nuanced understanding of their migratory patterns is essential for informed management decisions, especially as drastic as the creation of a zero-take season.
4. Disproportionate Impact on Disadvantaged Anglers: A no-take season for barred sand bass would disproportionately affect disadvantaged and underprivileged anglers, as well as tribal communities, who rely on nearshore species for accessible and affordable recreational fishing opportunities. barred sand bass is a key species for these communities, offering a vital connection to the outdoors, providing a subsistence food source, and fostering a love for fishing that transcends economic barriers.
5. Barred Sand Bass is a Gateway Fish: Barred sand bass play a crucial role as a gateway species for young and novice anglers in the saltwater recreational fishing community. These easy-to-catch fish offer an accessible and rewarding experience that fosters a lifelong appreciation for marine ecosystems and a love for the ocean. Eliminating access to this species with a no-take season could diminish participation in the sport and future sales of fishing licenses, particularly among younger generations, impairing success of the 3Rs program (Recruit, Retain and Reactivate).
6. Economic Contributions of Sport Fishing: The recreational fishing industry is a significant contributor to California’s economy, generating billions of dollars annually and supporting thousands of jobs. A no-take season for barred sand bass could have a cascading negative impact on the sport-fishing sector, including tackle shops, charter boats, and tourism-dependent businesses. It is crucial to weigh the economic consequences of this potential closure against its purported ecological benefits.
In conclusion, I urge the California Fish and Game Commission to prioritize updated scientific research and stakeholder input before establishing a no-take for barred sand bass. Collaborative efforts between the Department of Fish and Wildlife and stakeholders such as anglers, charter captains, scientists and eNGOs can lead to more balanced and effective conservation solutions that protect marine resources while preserving access and opportunities for California’s diverse fishing community.
Thank you for considering my comments. I appreciate the Commission’s dedication to sustainable fisheries management. [NAME] [CONTACT INFO]
