Be a Responsible Angler

The Tournament Committee emphasizes the importance of responsible fishing and compliance with the prohibition against fishing for stripers in Federal Waters. NOAA continues to implement the ban on fishing in these waters – the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) - an area beginning 3 miles offshore and continuing to the 200-mile limit.

Considered one of the most important fin-fish along the Atlantic coast, striped bass stocks have greatly fluctuated, and, correspondingly regulated, since the early European’s settlement of North America. While recent assessments calculate the species at sufficiently supporting numbers, the popularity of sport fishing, and the elevated mortality rates, in combination with factors such as poor water conditions sparks significant concern for stronger attempts at conservation.

Use that Hook

Switching to Circle Hooks is without a doubt the most effective tool for recreational fishermen to support Striped Bass Conservation

Annually 1.3 million Stripers die following their release back into the water. Whether caught with bait, lure or fly, the majority of these fish perish as a consequence of injuries sustained by deep hooking.

One of the easiest ways to reduce post release mortality requires only a switch to the less invasive circle hook. The design of the circle hook has the points turned inward. With the sharp parts less exposed than the traditional j-hook, the hook is not as likely to catch on anything but the lip or jaw of the fish.

NH Fish and Game suggest rotating the circle hook point onto the bait. For hook removal, simply unhook from the fish with a counter clockwise action. Breaking long time habits may prove a bit more frustrating for jerking the rod tip to set the tradition hook will only serve to pop the circle hook out of the fish’s mouth.  With the circle hook allow the fish to take the bait before reeling in the line for the hook-up.

1. When removing a hook grasp the lure by the shank and gently remove the hook from the mouth of the fish

 

2. Avoid using nets and excessive handling-keeping fingers away from the gills

 

3. With a deeply swallowed hook or when the hook is not easily removed, cut the leader and leave the hook in the fish. Hooks will eventually rust or free, as long as you don’t use stainless or gold plated

 

4. Avoid the prolonged fight that stresses the fish to the point of exhaustion and ultimately death.  You can resuscitate a fish that appears exhausted by holding the fish in the water and gently moving the fish forward and back allowing the water to circulate over the gills