April Newsletter
March Meeting
Rick Long, maker of the FISHOFF GLOVE was our March speaker. He spoke about the history of making the glove and the benefits of using it. Rick makes the product in his basement and has been featured in numerous fishing and boating magazines. The fishing glove is definitely something to have when the catching is fast and furious.
Next Meeting 4/30/2008 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm.
Sergeant Wayne Avery will be speaking on the DNR’s behalf.
He will be prepared to give a brief summary of our enforcement goals and objectives regarding spring season Stripped Bass. Hopefully he will be able to tell us about the crabbing regulations.
Coming Events
April 27 White perch fishing contest. A $5.00 dollar entrance fee per person.
First prize $60.00 second $30.00 and third $10.00.
May 10 Boat ramp clean-up starting at 9:00 am. The ramp is above the Dam on the Cecil county side.
May 18 Rockfish fishing contest. Same rules, fees, and prizes as above however, only fish in the slot limit accepted.
June 6 Fishing charter The trip will be on June 6, going out of Point Lookout Maryland. We will be targeting black drum. The cost of the charter is $800 (trip, tip, poles, & bait). Minimum of 6 but up to 10 people can be accommodated. If you are interested, $67 is due per person at the April meeting and the balance due at the May meeting. Or you can mail a check to Russ Watts, 307 Gadwall Ct. , Havre de grace , Md 21078
September 13 River fest. Volunteers’ are needed to hand out fishing poles, worms and monitor the pier.
Fishing contest rules
1. A $5.00 entrance fee per boat or family received one week before the contest
Send check to: Russell Watts
307 Gadwall Ct
Havre de Grace, Md 21078
2. It will be one day of fishing
3. There will be no starting time or place to start
4. One prize per person
5. We will gather at ,place to be determined, at 4:00 to measure the fish, eat hot dogs and hamburgers (provided by the club), and to give out the prizes
Posted on Thursday, April 24, 2008 by admin
March Newsletter
February Meeting Frank Daringer, the owner of Mid-Shore Electronics was our guest speaker. He presented the group with information on fish finders, how to read, and set up for accurate fish finding. For me I realized again that you need to spend the money if you want good electronics, he was talking those in the $1000 dollar range. For more information visit their web site www.mid-shore-electronics.com.
Next Meeting 3/26/2008 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm. .
Rick Long, maker of the FISHOFF GLOVE will be our March speaker. He will speak about the history of making the glove and the benefits of using it. Rick makes the product in his basement and has been featured in numerous fishing and boating magazines. Come early for dinner and learn about this new product
April 27 White perch fishing contest. A $5.00 entrance fee per boat or family.
First prize $60.00 second $30.00 and third $10.00 .
CHANGE OF DATE
May 18 Rockfish fishing contest. Same rules, fees, and prizes as above however, only fish in the slot limit accepted. In case of a tie, heaviest legal fish wins.
Charter fishing trip
The trip will be on June 6, going out of Solomons Island, Maryland. We will be targeting black drum. The cost of the charter is $800 (trip, tip, poles, & bait). Minimum of 6 but up to 10 people can be accommodated. If you are interested, $67 is due per person at the April meeting and the balance due at the May meeting. Or you can mail a check to Russ Watts, 307 Gadwall Ct. , Havre de grace , Md 21078
Fishing contest rules
1. A $5.00 entrance fee per person; children under 12 free , received one week before the contest
Send check & number of children under 12 to:
Russell Watts
307 Gadwall Ct
Havre de Grace, Md 21078
2. It will be one day of fishing
3. There will be no starting time or place to start
4. One prize per boat or family
5. We will gather at Northeast Park at 4:00 to measure the fish, eat hot dogs and hamburgers (provided by the club), and to give out the prizes
March 19, 2008
Dear BoatUS Member,
We need your help now to pass NEW federal legislation in the Senate that would provide a permanent exemption for recreational boats from the upcoming EPA discharge permit requirement. Remember that if we don't get legislation passed, we all need to get EPA permits to operate our boats effective 9/30/08!
We appreciate the time that many of you have already taken to let your Senators or Representatives know your support of S. 2067 or HR 2550 "The Recreational Boating Act of 2007." Now there is a new Senate Bill #2766 "The Clean Boating Act of 2008", which is more politically viable, and our best chance to eliminate the permit requirement before it comes in effect on September 30, 2008.
Please pick up the phone or email today and ask your Senators to sponsor and vote YES for S 2766. Although Congress is on recess this week and next, we need their staff to hear from us so that this bill can move as soon as the Senators are back in Washington.
Remember to contact both of your Senators:
(Georgia, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia)
State Phone Email
Georiga
Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) (202) 224-3521 Visit BoatBlue.org
Senator Johnny Isakson (R) (202) 224-3643 Visit BoatBlue.org
Maryland
Senator Ben Cardin (D) (202) 224-4524 Visit BoatBlue.org
Senator Barbara Mikulksi (D) (202) 224-4654 Visit BoatBlue.org
Ohio
Senator George Voinovich (R) (202) 224-3353 Visit BoatBlue.org
Senator Sherrod Brown (D) (202) 224-2315 Visit BoatBlue.org
Tennessee
Senator Lamar Alexander (R) (202) 224-4944 Visit BoatBlue.org
Senator Bob Corker (R) (202) 224-3344 Visit BoatBlue.org
Virginia
Senator John Warner (R) (202) 224-2023 Visit BoatBlue.org
Senator Jim Webb (D) (202) 224-4024 Visit BoatBlue.org
Your Senator that is in bold print is especially important to contact because they are a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee.
For more information:
Background
What's the timing?
Why a new bill?
What are the differences in the bills?
What does S 2766 include?
Posted on Saturday, March 22, 2008 by admin
February Newsletter
January Meeting Custom rod builder Kenneth Prager of White Clay Creek Outfitters was our January 30th speaker. Ken spoke about his Alaskan Adventure fishing trips for trophy rainbow and grayling trout. He presented a colorful power point presentation on this trip of a lifetime. At that time he still had two slots open for this year’s trip. If anyone is interested you can get in touch with the president.
Next Meeting 2/27/2008 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm. .
Frank Daringer is the owner of Mid-Shore Electronics; He has owned it for 9 years. He has grown the business from a small operation to its current site that is based on the water so that you can bring your boat to them for work. They just opened another store in Ocean City. For more information visit their web site www.mid-shore-electronics.com
Treasurers Report
Chris Narwold - Fishing trip raffle - income was $875.00. Please note now we still have to pay for the trip.
Our C.D. interest with Cecil Bank for 2007 is $231.28
Northern tax reporting information has been sent to the
MSSA home office
Political News
Be aware of a major screw-up, otherwise known as Senate Bill 673, sponsored by Pipkin, Colburn, and Stoltzfus. Clam dredgers have been notified that their traditional area is off-limits, since they have so seriously damaged the bottom of the Bay. This has curtailed their work and earnings. Bill 673 proposes to compensate them (Clint Waters heard the figure is between $60,000 and $70,000 each). They may also move to other areas, including the Choptank River and continue dredging.
Presidents Message Hello, My name is Russ Watts. I was a teacher for 30 years but now retired. All during that time I enjoyed fishing and being on the water. I joined the group for two reasons: to meet others who enjoyed fishing as I do, and to have a voice in the political arena as comes to preserving my obsession, fishing. What I would like to do is have more fishing contests, parties and opportunities for us to get together and fish. If anyone has any ideas please do not hesitate to contact me. Russ
Coming Events
April 27 White perch fishing contest. A $5.00 dollar entrance fee per boat or family.
First prize $60.00 second $30.00 and third $10.00 . Only one prize per boat. Largest by length. With a length in at Northeast park at 4:00 with hot dogs and hamburgers.
May 18 Rockfish fishing contest. Same rules, fees, and prizes as above however, non over the slot limit accepted. With a length in again at the park, at 4:00.
NOTE: This is the last mailing of the newsletter!!!!
If you want to continue receiving this newsletter, send a $10.00 check to:
MSSA Northern Bay Chapter
This will be for one year.
Notice in the last newsletter I had written that this was to be the last newsletter. I should have said that this was to be the last paper newsletter, except if you send in $10.00 to cover the costs of printing and mailing. This would be for a term of one year. The e-mailed newsletter would still be sent to those who have given us your e-mail free of charge, as this does not cost the chapter any money. Sorry for the misinformation.
Russ Watts President
Posted on Friday, February 22, 2008 by admin
January Meeting
Custom rod builder Kenneth Prager of White Clay Creek Outfitters will be our January 30th speaker. Ken will speak about his Alaskan Adventure fishing trips for trophy rainbow and grayling trout. Don’t miss his colorful power point presentation on this trip of a lifetime.
We will also be drawing the winner of our Fishing Trip Raffle Fundraiser.
7PM Nauti~Goose Restaurant, North East
Posted on Friday, January 25, 2008 by admin
Nov/Dec Newsletter
November Meeting Charlie Hutchinson spoke to us on the role of Menhaden fish with respect to the water quality of the Chesapeake Bay and the source of food for rock fish. The unwillingness of our elected officials to take an active role in the matter appalled me. It seems all they want to do is study it!!
Scott Carlson won the 50/50
There were 22 in attendance.
We had four winners of the door prizes.
Next Meeting 11/28/2007 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm.
.
Charter Boat Captain Bo Hamm will be our November 28th speaker and recently won the Maryland Waterman’s Association 07’ Pro-Am Rock Hall rockfish tournament. Captain Bo pilots the 42’ Brawler II out of Kent Island, MD for family, tournament or corporate Chesapeake Bay fishing trips. Learn about fall & spring fishing on the Chesapeake from Rock Hall to Taylors Island and the differences between big boat charter fishing and smaller open boat fishing. Join us for the last meeting of the year. No meeting in December
Treasurers message Subject: Fishing Trip Raffle Fundraiser
For more information about Captain Chris Narwold, please go to Chapter 12 web site.(mssanorthernbay.com)click on Links then click on Fin Ally sport fishing charters. Captain Chris is also a member of the MSSA Chapter 12.
Bill Grieser
Presidents Message Dear fellow members,
The year went fast and was a very successful one for the Northern Bay Chapter. While the fishing was quite poor, the crabbing was fantastic. In fact crabbing was so good that rumor has it, Denny Wolf has so many crab cakes in his freezer he is having us all over for an AYCE.
We were successful in our very long quest for a slot fish - a major accomplishment! Many thanks to all involved. We were also successful in acquiring approximately 50% of members e-mail addresses saving us money and time mailing out newsletters. As always, if I don’t have your e-mail address, please send it to me. The chapter grew during the year and we participated in numerous kids and community events.
At November’s meeting we will be electing chapter positions. If you cannot attend the meeting but would like to run for a position please contact any Board member. I enjoyed the President’s position very much this year learning many things and meeting new people. The position is challenging yet rewarding. However, due to the uncertainty of my job and possible relocation surrounding this issue, I will not be accepting any official position in the local Chapter next year. I will help out as much as I can if I’m still in the area.
Happy Holidays! Scott
Posted on Thursday, November 22, 2007 by admin
October Meeting date change!
Important! This month's meeting will be on Thursday, November 1st. Same place, same time, one day later due to Holloween. Hear what Charlie has to say about Gilchrest's new menhaden bill. Also available for loan is The Most Important Fish in the Sea by Bruce Franklin. See you there.
Posted on Friday, October 26, 2007 by admin
October Newsletter
September Meeting: 42 people enjoyed Captain Walt’s presentation on line-lining and top water fishing the flats. Capt Walt also answered some flats kayaking questions. Art Koszoru was the 50/50 winner which totaled $81. Over 15 door prizes were given out and the recipients are too numerous to name. We had the pleasure of having Essex/Middle River Chapter member Will Otto, attend our meeting. Will and our own Kenny Simmers will be members at large next year. Thanks to both!
Next Meeting 11/1/2007 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm.
Our October guest speaker will be Charlie Hutchinson. Since our normal meeting date falls on Halloween night, your board of directors has decided to bump the meeting one day to Thursday, November 1st. Charlie will speak about Menhaden, the most important fish in the sea and what he is doing to try and preserve them. Menhaden are a primary forage food for striped bass and are also filter feeders which clean the Bay’s waters. These fish are suspected of being depleted by purse seining at the mouth of the Bay. Learn about why Charlie feels menhaden are so important to the Chesapeake Bay and striped bass. He will also discuss his efforts on political and buy out plans for Omega Protein, the primary purse seiner.
Junior crabbing trip About a dozen junior club members were ready to go at the Bohemia ramp by 7 AM but the deep fog had a different idea. We waited and waited. One by one, boats launched with the junior club’s members onboard. By 11 AM six boats had brought in approx 4 bushels of nice crabs. Junior club sponsor Bob James cooked up hamburgers and hot dogs while Master at Arms Joel Swift steamed crabs. No one left hungry and the Junior MSSA members took home about a bushel of crabs. Many thanks to Denny Wolf for organizing the event and all who participated.
The annual picnic. The weather was perfect and the crabs and fixings even better. About 25 members and their families attended this Northern Bay Chapter subsidized event. Much thanks to Lee Haile who organized the event and all who chipped in.
Presidents Message
Your Chapter has two books available for loan, Beautiful Swimmers and Striper Wars. If you fish the Chesapeake these are a must read. Come to the next meeting early to sign out one of these books as they go fast.
All Chapter positions are open for election. These include president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and master at arms. Elections will be held at the November meeting. As you know Bill Grieser is stepping down as treasurer. This position needs to be filled. If you do not want to commit to an official position but would like to help, we need you also! We need assistance printing and mailing newsletters, acquiring guest speakers, organizing events, etc. Please speak up at the October meeting (actually on November 1st) or contact a board member
Posted on Friday, October 26, 2007 by admin
September Newsletter
June Meeting: Attendance: 20
The 50/50 Winner walked away with $51 and 4 door prizes were given away including two very nice hand made lures donated by Allen Mrachek.
Our guest speaker, Jerry Bratkowski, gave a great presentation on crabbing. He discussed crabbing with traps, nets, and trot lines. Jerry discussed advantages and disadvantages of various types of traps and nets. He demonstrated how to build a snood line and plenty of tips on how to get more crabs in your boat.
Next Meeting 9/26/2007 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm.
Captain Bob “Walt” Walter will be our September speaker. Captain Walt fishes the Bay from Cape Charles, VA up to the Susquehanna River. His presentation will cover live-lining and top water fishing for those Susquehanna flats Stripers.
Hope you can make it to the meeting and it will be the last chance to sign up for the Chapter Picnic on Sept. 29th.
Chapter 12 Volunteer Crabbers Needed
Once again our club is sponsoring the Junior MSSA members for a day of crabbing on the Bo. We need your help: boats and crabbing equipment. Date: Saturday, October 6. Place: Bohemia River by Denny’s. Time: 0’dark thirty until 1 pm. Please contact Denny Wolf (410-885-2253) if you can volunteer. Without us, there will be no crabbing trip!
2007 MSSA Chapter 12 Picnic
The Chapter Summer Picnic will be 29 September, noon to 4 PM, at the North East Town Park for Members and their immediate family. The picnic tickets are $15 per person. We’ll have steamed crabs, hamburgers, hot dogs, and other picnic fare. Lee Haile will lead the children’s fishing contest again this year. Please contact Lee Haile at 410-828-0575 to sign-up.
Treasurer’s Message from Bill Grieser
50/50 Raffles at the chapter meetings help to pay for our Guest Speaker’s dinners. We pay for gas and tolls for our president to attend meetings all over the state and Newsletter printing and postage (about 50% of our members receive the newsletter via e-mail at no cost to our Chapter). Other expenses include the Chapter Picnic, scholarship fund, bait and tackle for children’s fishing contests at special events, etc.
I want to say thanks to all of the membership that purchases 50/50 tickets at the Chapter Meetings. This is a great help to our funds. To all of you that have supported the Fishing Seminars for the last two years, a very special thanks from Denny and me.
This will be my last Treasurer’s Report. My term expires December 1, 2007. I will continue to organize fishing trips and continue to grow our membership. I will also be very supportive of my replacement and help with the transition.
First let me clear up a major misunderstanding for those members that do not have the opportunity to attend the monthly chapter meetings at the Nauti~Goose. Membership revenue sharing between the MSSA home office and the local chapters as followed.
Applications Home Office/MSSA Chapter share
Individual membership $20.00 $2.50
Individual membership 3 years 50.00 5.00
Family membership 25.00 2.50
Family membership 3 years 55.00 5.00
Junior membership 5.00 0
My point is to keep the chapter afloat. Fund raising is a way of life for our membership. In 2008 we will not have a seminar as a fundraiser. We are looking into alternatives.
“Our” Money
As of 8/8/07 our laddered CD’s with Cecil Bank are as followed;
Current balance Rate Maturity date
$508.74 5.12% 9/30/07
539.06 5.12 3/01/08
532.10 2.50 3/01/08
539.06 5.12 3/01/08
1526.30 5.12 4/30/08
1617.70 5.12 9/30/08
= $5262.96
5.12% interest compounds to 5.25% APR
Our checking account balance with Bay First is $566.00
Combining totals of CD’s and checking total is $5822.96
SPRING ROCK KEEPER! By Ken Simmers
For the last four years the Maryland Saltwater Sportsfishing Association has tried in vain to pass a bill allowing local fishermen to keep a spring rockfish on the Susquehanna Flats. Last Wednesday the tide turned.
Ultimately, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has the final say whether or not rules may be changed concerning rockfish. The commission is comprised of representatives from all East Coast states from Maine to Florida. Although states may have more than one representative, they have only one vote. Ordinarily, a simple majority rules; the exception is when a bill is reintroduced without changes. Then it requires a two-third majority.
MSSA President Bill Windley asked me to attend the meeting with him as a Northern Bay member. We made the trip to Alexandria, VA, by lunchtime and met with Howard King, Director of Fisheries for the Department of Natural Resources. All points concerning enforcement by DNR had already been ironed out, and everything was a go.
Checking the itinerary, we learned that our bill would not be introduced until 6:20 pm, so we had the opportunity to see first-hand how the ASMFC operates. I was impressed with the professionalism of all the men and women involved, concerning issues from format to trap netting in New Hampshire.
By 6:15 Bill and I were getting a little antsy; not so with MSSA Executive Director Rich Novotny, who took it all in stride. Soon Howard had the floor, introduced the bill, asked for consideration, assured the panel that no allotment quota would be changed, and completed his argument in our favor.
Windley was next to speak. He assured the members that a resident slot fish would primarily be male, not breeding stock, and that the overall quota would remain intact. He also added that most of us fishing the Susquehanna Flats are local blue-collar workers who would like to take a fish home for their families. His closing comment was that the board should do what is right for the fishermen and the fish.
After a short discussion a two-minute caucus was allowed, then the vote. It was unanimous in our favor! The end result is this: from May 15 until May 31 fishermen will be allowed to keep one rockfish per day, between 18 and 26 inches in length.
Many thanks to MSSA and Howard King for representing us and giving us the opportunity to bring home a fish!
Presidents Message
I would like to personally thank Eleanore Benjamin, Mike Benjamin, Marty Gary, Howard King, Rich Novotny, Ken Simmers, Bill Windley, and Denny Wolf on behalf of the Northern bay MSSA Chapter for their diligent and patient efforts in helping to obtain a spring resident possession flats fish.
Congrads are also in store for our own Kenny Simmers as he has run unopposed for MSSA member at large. Congratulations Kenny! Since all positions ran unopposed, the 2008 MSSA line up will be Stephon Shechtel, president Brian Wimpee, VP Frank Holden, secretary Pete Reid, treasurer Will Otto, member at large.
Posted on Sunday, September 9, 2007 by admin
Summer news
The following positions are open for the 2008 State MSSA board of directors, President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and one member at large. Their duties are listed below,
a] The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Association. He shall preside at all meetings and serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors. The President shall serve as an ex-officio member of all committees, with a right to participate and vote if he chooses to exercise it. He shall appoint all committee chairmen.
[b] The Vice-President presides in the absence of the President.
[c] The Secretary shall maintain [i] the general records including minutes of the Board of Directors, [ii] files of correspondence, and [iii] membership list with addresses. The Secretary shall be responsible for collection and maintenance of funds, membership records, and notification of those delinquent in dues. The Secretary shall turn over all funds to the Treasurer. The Secretary shall also prepare and submit all reports directed by the President and shall transmit all notices directed by the President, other officers, and/or the Board of Directors.
[d] The Treasurer shall receive and deposit all monies in appropriate accounts or delegate this duty to staff. Disbursements shall be made only on authority of the Board of Directors. Checks shall be signed by any two of the Treasurer, the President, the Vice-President, the Secretary or the Executive Director. The Treasurer shall prepare and submit monthly financial reports to the Board of Directors. The Treasurer may be required to give bond in such sums and with sureties as may be required by the Board, at the Association's expense.
[b] Four At-Large-Members to be duly elected annually from the general membership, with no chapter allowed more than one member. Effective January 1, 2003, the two [2] members at large getting the most votes shall serve a two [2] year term and the other two [2] members at large shall serve a one [1] year term. Effective January 1, 2004, and each year thereafter, two [2] members at large shall be elected for a two [2] year term. Each member of the board, including the President, shall be entitled to one vote.
Please contact Ken Simmers kensimmers@comcast.net 410.287.8671 by Monday August 6th if you are interested in being nominated.
****Maryland will present a possession flats fishery proposal (one fish 18-26" last two weeks of May) to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commision's Atlantic Striped Bass Management Board on Wednesday August 15th 2007. Keep your fingers crossed!****
Regards,
Scott Carlson
MSSA Northern Bay Chapter President
We are contemplating having a chapter picnic again this year. The tentative date is September 29th @ North East Town Park. The park is accessible by water! Make it a day event by boating in the AM and picnicking in the afternoon. Steamed crabs will be the main event. This event is usually subsidized by the club. Please contact lee Haile 410.828.0575 if you are interested in attending. If there is not enough interest, we will not hold the event.
September 8th, Charlestown river fest.
Posted on Sunday, July 22, 2007 by admin
June Newsletter
May Meeting: Attendance: 18
50/50 Winner: Stan Cebula Sr.
Door prize winners: Kenny Heath, Kenny Simmers, and Tom Spittle.
Speaker: Tommy Shirley from North East West Marine. Tommy brought several fish finders from entry level to pro, explained the features, prices, and answered member questions. The functional units were available to demo after he spoke.
Next Meeting 6/27/2007 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm.
Jerry Bratkowski will be our June speaker. Jerry will be speaking on crabbing and is an expert on the subject with five decades under his belt. He will speak about traps, nets, and trot/snood lines. He will explain to us tricks of the trade for a better crabbing experience. Learn about bait selection and how the internet can help you select the better crabbing locations. Join us for the last meeting before the summer break and learn how to CMC (catch more crab)!
Chapter 12 Volunteers Needed
Our Chapter will have a BOOTH at the CHARLESTOWN RIVER FEST
On SEPTEMBER 8, 2007...We need help setting up the booth and manning the booth on Saturday only.
Our Chapter will also MANAGE/JUDGE the 6th ANNUAL KIDS FISHING
TOURNAMENT from 9am-11am on Saturday. ”THIS IS GREAT FUN"....Last year Steve & Jane Ariosa hosted 60 KIDS.
"THE MARINER" will supply the prizes for the first 3 place winners in each age group. Please contact Bill Grieser to volunteer @ 410-885-3044
2007 1st MSSA Chapter 12 Fishing Contest
The Chapter fishing contest has been cancelled due to a lack of interest, less than a dozen members signed up. Members who did sign up will receive a refund at the June meeting or by mail. We would like to thank Scott Adams for volunteering to organize this event. We hope to try this bragging rights contest again next year!
Presidents Message
Almost a fish. While we attempted to get our feet wet with a Spring Susquehanna Flats possession fishery this year, we fell just short. Much progress was made as we cleared all Maryland obstacles only to be turned down by the ASMFC (Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission). This was due mainly because of objections by other States on how the proposal was presented. Many MSSA members spent countless hours making phone calls and attending numerous meetings in Annapolis and Fair Hill to support this proposal. This is the furthest we have come in our four year quest for a keeper fish while they are still here.
The good news is that Howard King has committed to presenting the Flat’s possession fishery to the ASMFC this August along with the spring trophy fishery. This has never been done before. The recent trophy season overages have prevented this due to political posturing. The Trophy season was allocated 86,000 resident fish this year. Your MSSA Chapter has requested we be included in this resident fishery next year. If they can possess resident fish in the spring we feel we should be allowed to also.
Old Conowingo Boat Ramp
We are looking for members who live near or use the Old Conowingo Boat ramp who would be willing to drive by the ramp and give a condition report. We are forming a watch group in conjunction with CCA and other local groups to prevent the degradation of this site again. This would involve just driving by the ramp every few weeks and calling or e-mailing in if there was any vandalism. It would be a shame to loose this free boat ramp due to the thoughtlessness of a few. The details have not been worked out yet but please call or e-mail me if you can be of assistance. 302-293-5769 scottyelk@comcast.net
Posted on Sunday, June 17, 2007 by admin
May 2007 Newsletter
April Meeting: Attendance: 37
50/50 Winner: Ken Heath
Rodger Hurka was our April guest speaker, a certified Master Honda Technician employed by Hooked on the Bay, in North East, MD. Rodger discussed engine maintenance in relation to the new ethanol blended fuels. He’s serviced a number of engines with problems caused by mixing MTB enhanced and Ethanol fuels. He also spoke about proper fish finder transducer placement with a step by step installation process. The session ended with a question and answer period.
Next Meeting 5/30/2007 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm.
Our guest speaker for the May meeting will be Tommy Shirley. Tommy is a manager at West Marine’s North East store. He will speak about the latest technology in sonar/fish finders. He has recently attended West’s electronics school. The focus will be on fish finders, but Tommy should be able to answer any of your marine electronics questions. Join your MSSA friends and learn how to CMF (catch more fish)!
Chapter 12 Volunteers Needed
Our Chapter will have a BOOTH at the CHARLESTOWN RIVER FEST
On SEPTEMBER 8, 2007...We need help setting up the booth and manning the booth on Saturday only.
Our Chapter will also MANAGE/JUDGE the 6th ANNUAL KIDS FISHING
TOURNAMENT from 9am-11am on Saturday. ”THIS IS GREAT FUN"....Last year Steve & Jane Ariosa hosted 60 KIDS.
"THE MARINER" will supply the prizes for the first 3 place winners in each age group. Please contact Bill Grieser to volunteer @ 410-885-3044
Old Conowingo boat ramp clean-up was May 5. Starting at 9am we met for coffee and snacks, followed by a few hours of planting trees and shrubs and spreading mulch. We broke for lunch, finished last-minute round-up and hit the road. Thanks to Exelon, this dream has become a reality. They are not alone in their help, however. Maryland Saltwater Sportsfishermen’s Association and the Coastal Conservation Association spearheaded the ramp clean-up. The Conowingo Lions Club was also involved in the effort, as was the Maryland Sportsmen for Kids and the Havre de Grace Youth Group. By starting time, Exelon had already removed ten dump truck loads of trees and junk from the water, re-paved the parking lot, painted the new parking lot, and installed a new guard rail. This boat ramp is not just for fishermen: it is for the neighborhood to use and have a good time. When Delegate David Rudolph and I first inspected the area and decided to do the project, there were plenty of kids swimming and jumping off the bridge. The area is now better for them to use and have fun. So it is for the entire community. Thanks to all who showed up to lend a hand.
2007 1st MSSA Chapter 12 Fishing Tournament.
We will hold our first chapter fishing tournament running from May 31 through December 31 2007. It will be on the honor system for rockfish, catfish, white perch and largemouth bass, caught on hook and line from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia waters. There are two categories adult ($10.00) and under 15 ($ 5.00). The last day for registration will be on May 31 2007. Prizes will be given out. For a complete set of rules please see our website or call Scott Adams at 410-658-8301
(1st ) 2007 MSSA Chapter 12 Fishing Tournament
Tournament dates: May 31st – Dec. 31st
Species:
1.) Striped Bass (Rockfish)
2.) Catfish (all species one category)
3.) White Perch
4.) Largemouth Bass
Rules:
1.) All fish must be caught hook and line.
2.) All catches must have a witness – photo when possible
3.) Fish can be released but must have a witness verification (again, photo when possible).
4.) Location – Maryland/Delaware/Virginia
5.) Fish are measured Tip to Tip (not fork length) be precise. (This is an honor system tournament!)
6.) $10.00 entry fee due by the end of the May 30th meeting.
7.) All catch reports must be given to tournament chairperson within 30 days of catch date.
8.) All decisions are made by tournament committee and are final.
9.) Category leaders will be posted on the MSSA Chapter 12 Website and in each email newsletter.
10.) Must be a current MSSA Chapter 12 member.
11.) All state fishing regulations must be followed.
Prizes:
Prizes will be given for 1st and 2nd place largest fish in each category. Prizes will be determined based upon number of entries.
There will be an under 15 age division where there will be prizes for 1st and 2nd places.
Prizes will be awarded at the January chapter meeting.
Tournament Chairman:
Scott Adams
81 Foxboro Dr.
Rising Sun, Md. 21911
(H) 410-658-8301
© 443-309-0320
Posted on Tuesday, May 22, 2007 by admin
April 2007 Newsletter
MARCH Meeting: Attendance: 45
Larry Tallio was our guest speaker. He spoke about location, lures and presentation to catch Shad on the Susquehanna River. Some interesting items were to use a long rod (9 foot), and to use a ¼ oz split shot as he said they hug the bottom.
Treasurer Report - Bill Grieser gave the treasurer’s report for 2006 and the seminar in February of 2007. We seem to be doing well as the seminar netted us just over $2000 dollars. However, our biggest out lay of money is the news letter of just over $1600 dollars annually. So please if you could give us your e-mail address. We would be glad to e-mail you the News Letter.
Next Meeting
April 25th at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7 PM.
Rodger Hurka will be our April guest speaker. He is a certified Master Honda technician employed by Hooked on the Bay, in North East, MD. Rodger will speak about proper fish finder transducer placement and why it is so important. He will also answer your questions about engine maintenance and the new ethanol blended fuels. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a local hands on expert!
BOAT RAMP CLEAN-UP - Where can you go in Cecil County and launch your boat for free? Let’s see there’s Charlestown, but you have to pay to park. Then there’s … Well, there is Old Conowingo, a mile north of the Conowingo Dam. It gives access to Conowingo Pond and extends to PA. That one is free. However, over the years it became trashed both in water and land. Recently, though, Delegate David Rudolph, MSSA President Bill Windley, and Ken Simmers contacted Exelon, the owner of the area. Being an evaluation year Exelon took some big equipment and cleaned out the water re-paved the parking lot, painted parking spaces, and replaced the guard rail. Now it is our chance to reap the glory. On Saturday, May 5, we are going to help clean up by planting trees and shrubs, and spreading mulch. VOLINTEERS NEEDED! We will meet at 9 am for breakfast, supplied by Exelon, work till noon with lunch provided by CCA and drinks by MSSA. Please bring shovels, wheelbarrows, and gloves. SEE YOU AT 9!
Junior Fishing Trip - Our past has been shaped by our deeds, one of which has always been to influence the lives of youngsters by taking them outdoors. We started this our first year with students from Perryville High School, since then C. Milton Wright High School. Usually, we did; sometimes we didn’t. We did, however, hold true to our word and took them fishing. This year the annual event is scheduled for Saturday, April 21, and we hope to catch some good fish. As in the past members are donating the use of their boats and experience. THANKS TO THOSE WHO VOLINTEERED!
2007 1st MSSA Chapter 12 Fishing Tournament - We will holding our first chapter fishing tournament running from May 30 through December 31 2007. It will be on the honor system for rockfish, catfish, white perch and largemouth bass, caught on hook and line from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia waters. Prizes will be given out. For a complete set of rules please see our website or call Scott Adams at 410-658-8301
Posted on Wednesday, April 18, 2007 by admin
March 2007 Northern Bay Newsletter
Februrary Meeting: Attendance: 53
Captain Karl Bunch of http://www.karlsbassinadventures.com was our guest speaker for the February 28th meeting. Capt Karl is an expert guide on the Upper Bay and Flats. Karl gave us numerous fishing tips for the Upper Bay. He discussed water temperature when Rockfish start biting, tips for using plastics, scents, and drift socks. He also discussed using poppers over grass beds and he’s also caught a lot of fish on poppers in 10 – 20 feet of water. Some of his favorite baits include Crashing Thunder spinner baits and Buzzjet and Basirisky top water baits.
Mike Benjamin spoke about the Rockfish season on the flats. He also spoke about Yellow Perch and the CCA push for House Bill 702 eliminating the commercial nets from January 1st through March 20th.
Next Meeting 3/28/2007 at the Nauti~Goose, North East, MD, 7pm.
“Shad on the Susquehanna” - Larry Tallio will be our guest speaker.
Larry has been fishing the Susquehanna River for shad for over a decade. He is a current member of MSSA Northern Bay Chapter. Some of his tips on location, lure and extreme rod selection will be discussed. Timing and fast water are keys to a good day when fishing for shad.
Northern Bay 2007 Fundraiser
We all had a chance to learn something new at the MSSA seminar, from trolling, to jigging, to fishing from kayaks. That’s what a seminar is all about, getting out with your friends and learning something new that may just help you out with the next season.
Trolling the Chesapeake? Who better to ask than Rich Novotny. Rich has been doing this aboard the Oh, Thank Heaven since the waters were first brought to the Bay. Plus, he does it with a sense of humor. The fact that he brought along his books is a good thing; in fact, Rich donated three autographed copies as door prizes.
Captain Walt did a very nice job telling us about kayak rigging. We all do it differently, but it’s good to know how others do it, too. We may just come away with a new twist on anchoring. Many in the audience have never kayaked, but that’s OK, for they still learned something new, and may just be convinced to try it for the first time.
Every speaker contributed to the very positive outcome of the seminar by providing what works in his given situation. Over all, the seminar was an outstanding success, as well as an enjoyable day, spent on our favorite topic, fishing.
Posted on Wednesday, March 21, 2007 by admin
December 2006 Newsletter
President’s Message
Dear fellow members,
Thanks for your confidence in selecting me as your President. I look forward to representing the Northern Bay Angler. I want to see our Chapter grow and have more influence on issues that are important to us. Here are some of my New Year aspirations;
1. Increase the number e-mailed monthly newsletters to those members with e-mail access. This will save the club a lot of money. Denny Wolf initiated this process by obtaining a member list. The Board and I will be calling all current members and inquiring about their e-mail access.
2. Continue to pursue a keeper slot rockfish for the Northern Bay after the C & R season which Denny initiated in 2003. I have already attended several Sport Fish Advisory Committee meetings regarding this issue. I will also be attending the Striped Bass ad hoc meetings in Annapolis to support our goal.
3. As President, I will also be attending monthly MSSA State board meetings in Baltimore. I would like to give a brief overview of these meetings at every member meeting. I hope this will make members feel more in touch with what their state organization is doing for them.
4. Continue to support local community & kids events. It is important to establish ourselves within the community, gain recognition, and build our membership. Not to mention the camaraderie and fun to be had!
Finally, I am asking for your input on any issue you feel our chapter should be involved in. Please join me in pursuing and accomplishing these goals.
Feel free to contact me anytime.
Scott Carlson
November General Membership Meeting
We were pleased to welcome our guest speaker, Lenny Rudow. Lenny let us know where to fish, what to fish, and how to fish to get those fish in the boat this time of the year. For Bay fishing you’ve got to be south of Solmon’s Island where they’re having success trolling and catching Stripers in the 32” - 45” range. For Bay fishing he showed us his recommend presentation/placement using a combination of tandem rigs, daisy chains, and umbrella rigs. Lenny runs out of Ocean City all summer and has come up with a very productive “X” pattern for off-shore using a spreader bar, 2 single ballyhoo, and a sub-surface dredge. He shared a few other tips with us as well as answering questions. Just remember what Lenny says when it comes to fishing for Stripers “if it ain’t chartreuse, it ain’t no use.”
Northern Bay 2007 Fundraiser
On February 24, 2007, the Northern Bay Chapter will be holding its second fishing seminar. This year’s seminar will be at Perryville High School 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. We have scheduled five (5) guest speakers. Please see the enclosed flyer for all the details. We hope to see you there. Please help us get the word out so we make this another successful fundraiser for our Chapter! You may contact Denny @ 410-885-2253 or Bill @ 410-885-3044 for tickets and information.
Trip to the CBBT
Several members of the club went down to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel to do some rock fishing. We went out with 2 of our Captains who spoke at the 2006 Northern Bay Fishing Seminar. Russ Watts and Margaret Freeman met Captain Chuck Fisher at 6:00 am for breakfast then off to the boat. We were drifting live eels right off Cape Charles in about 40 feet of water. It wasn’t more than 10 minutes before we had our first hook up. It was a 44” Rock which was landed by Margaret. We caught a total of 7 fish, each one over 35 “. We kept the first two, yielding 19 pounds of filets. A great day of fishing, Chuck and his wife Sarah were great guides and hosts!
The other group fished with Captain “Walleye Pete” Dahlberg on Thursday 12-07-06. Bill Grieser, Joe Daniels, Stan Cebula & Larry Tallio. The action was fast and furious; we worked the birds that were feeding on the surface. We caught fish from 18” to 38” in size. Two each were kept for the freezer. We got blown out by high winds on Friday or there would be more to the story. A total of 170 fish where caught by our party!!!……..It was a great trip; Make plans to join us next year…
Posted on Thursday, December 28, 2006 by admin
June News Letter
MSSA Office…410.255.5535
fishmssa@aol.com
Web Site: www.mssa.net
Area Business that support the MSSA and offer discounts:
MR Props Hance Point Rd
Prop repair and custom props
Sarges’ Bait and Tackle
10% off most merchandise
Ocean Pro Shop Rt 13 in Townsend DE 5% on everything
Boaters World all locations offer discount on most items
West Marine in North East MD only.
Calendar of Events
September
9 RiverFest Kids Fishing Tournament 9:00 to 11:00
20 Chapter Board Meeting Pier One 6:00
27 Membership Meeting Nauti~Goose Cpl. Ed Smith DNR Police
30 Northern Bay Picnic 12:00 to 4:00 North East Park
October
18 Chapter Board Meeting Pier One 6:00
25 Membership Meeting Nauti~Goose Nomination of officers for 2007
November
22 Chapter Board Meeting Pier One 6:00
29 Membership Meeting Nauti~Goose Elections and last meeting for 2006
2007
February
24 Northern Bay Fishing Seminar at Perryville High School
May’s Newsletter
The Board of Directors of the Northern Bay MSSA at the Board meeting on April 19 decided that it was not in the best interest of the chapter to continue to spend $200 a month to print and mail our newsletter. We will have a newsletter in January, April and September. Since we do not meet in July, August and December those three months will each cover three months of news and events for the chapter. It will also reduce our expenses by $1,200 a year. We will use post cards to send any notices of special events and reminders. Our web site will also have current news and events posted. We will continue to send emails to those we have on file. It was also decided that we would send a June Newsletter to inform you of the decision and tie up some loose ends for the Summer.
President’s Report Recently I had to have some serious surgery on my spinal cord. I am up and back to work but it will be months before I fully recover. I have let a few things slide during my recovery so if you were wondering why you have not received any emails, the web site has not been updated lately, why I missed the May meeting, I have not done anything with Tee shirts and the newsletter is a little late, that is my excuse and I’m sticking to it. I am doing better each day and I put my boat back in the water last week so I can renew my sprit on the water. Now all we need is a little warm weather.
April Meeting
There were over 50 members to hear “Tackle Box” Tim Sherman share his expertise and knowledge with us. Tim knows his stuff and it was a very nice presentation with a lot of good questions from the members. It was our first night for the dinner specials at the Goose and many of us enjoyed the selection. I had the stuffed rock and it was very good.
May Meeting
I did not want to miss this meeting. I have heard so many good things about Brenda Davis and her Blue Crab presentation and considered us lucky to get her. The members who I spoke to told me she was just as good as I had heard. I was also surprised to hear that there is a lot they don’t know about the Blue Crab.
Next Meeting June 28th
The Nauti~Goose is located at 200 Cherry St in North East MD 21901. Take 272 through town and turn right on Cherry just before the road merges back to two way traffic. Our guest Speaker is Robert Glenn, Executive Director of the Costal Conservation Association of Maryland. Robert will cover a little about the CCA’s history both nationally and in Maryland, explain their “blueprint” and why they think it works, their future plans and discuss some fisheries management issues from menhaden to Upper Bay concerns. It should be a very interesting evening and I hope to see you there
Dinner Specials at our Meetings
The Nauti~Goose will have dinner specials at our meetings. You can have your choice of Prime Rib cooked the way you like it, Stuffed Rockfish that is stuffed with crab if you didn’t know, Captain Morgan Chicken for some of that island cooking and an all time favorite BBQ Baby Back Ribs in their special sauce, all include vegetable and potato for $15.00. They have also reduced the price of bottled beer. The only catch is you must dine upstairs to enjoy the special deals. Please don’t forget our servers, they work hard to keep this a nice dinner and deserve your tips.
23rd Annual Spring Tournament
In one of the closest finishes in recent years, Brian Hite of Hollywood, Md., beat out thousands of other fishermen on the last day to win the Tournament. Late in the afternoon on Sunday May 7, Hite checked in a 457/8-inch striper at the MSSA’s Point Lookout station to win $44,165 and beat out Christian Phillips, a Middle River resident who landed a striper that measured 445/8 inches and won $44,925. There were 702 boats involved and together they released over 800 stripers. There were no mishaps and all went as planed during a very busy weekend on the bay.
The C. Milton Wright Fishing Club
Well April 29th proved to be the right day to fish the flats. We caught and released a couple of hundred stripers of all size. They were hungry, healthy and just about everywhere at one point or another. Everyone had a great time and all returned safely to the dock. Thanks to all who took part in this major effort to pass on the fun and excitement of fishing to these teens, they are grateful for the opportunity and remember it always. There are some photos on the web site, take a look and join the fun next year if you missed it.
Fishing Trips
October 19, 2006 Thursday Morning, Delaware Bay Stripers 1 slot $80 plus tip
October 26, 2006 Thursday, Delaware Bay Stripers 2 slots $80 plus tip
The Above October trips are with Captain Chris Narwold 302-834-1432
December 6, 7 & 8 Trip to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel with
Captain Walleye Pete 2 nights Hotel and 2 days fishing cost TBD
MSSA Tuna-Ment
The Tuna-Ment is scheduled for June 23-25. This second jewel in the MSSA Tournament Series has weigh-stations at Wachapreague, VA, Chincoteague, VA, and Ocean City, MD. There’s a big cookout and Captains meeting at Wachapreague on the Thursday night June 22 starting at 6:00 PM. Pick up a brochure at any Boater’s World store or call the MSSA office for more details.
July and August
We do not meet in July and August; too many of us are too busy with vacations and summer fun. Our September meeting will be at the Nauti~Goose on the 27th and our guest speaker will be Cpl. Ed Smith of the Department of Natural Resources Police.
Charlestown RiverFest
The 4th Annual MSSA Kid’s Fishing Tournament will be held on Saturday September 9th on the Town Wharf in Charlestown. Last year we had 64 kids show up to fish. It was a little crowded and we are considering placing a limit on participants. We need some of you to help with this event. There are many things to do to keep the tournament going with that many kids. The tournament starts at 9:00 am we need volunteers there by 8:00am to help set up. Contact Steve Ariosa 410-982-2392 for more info and to help.
Northern Bay Crab Feast & Picnic
We have a date, Saturday September 30th from 12:00 to 4:00pm. The location is the Levy Pavilion in the North East Town Park. This will be a catered event and if there are crabs to be had we will have them. There will also be Pit Beef and a second meat selection to be made, as well as assorted salads, rolls, soft drinks and all the usual picnic stuff. There will be door prizes, a 50/50 and horse shoes and fun for all. The party is open to all Northern Bay members, family and significant others for the modest donation of $10 for anyone 16 and older, 15 and under is free. We will not provide any alcoholic beverages. You may bring your own but you must bring cans only and keep it low profile. The park has rules on alcoholic beverages but it is typically only enforced if there is a problem. You must make your nonrefundable donation in advance and we will accept them until our Membership meeting on September 27th. We will not have paper tickets, names will be on a master list at the door. The rain date if we need it is October 14th. You can send your donation in several ways. Call Bill Grieser at 410-885-3044 and use your Visa or Master Card, you can give any board member your donation or at the monthly meeting. You can mail your check to Bill Grieser at 26 Canterbury Ct., Chesapeake City, MD 21915. Please join us; we would like to see this be a big event for our members and a good way to get to know one and other.
Ken Simmers Retires
We all knew it was coming and now it is here. Ken has taught his last class at C. Milton Wright High School. Ken has always been the driving force behind the Fishing Club there. Long before there was a Northern Bay MSSA there was a fishing club at Wright High and Ken did it all. At a recent retirement party for Ken many of his former students were there to share their memories of Mr. Simmers and the fishing club had a significant impact on so many lives. Ken has touched so many lives in his career and we are all proud to know him and have him as member in the MSSA. Bill Windley, president of the MSSA presented Ken with a lifetime membership to the MSSA that night. Thanks to Ken for all he has done for the youth of the area and the Northern Bay Chapter of the MSSA.
New Main Office
The MSSA Headquarters has moved.It is now located at 8461C Fort Smallwood Rd. Pasadena, MD 21122.It’s just about ½ mile further down the road from the old place.It’s at the site of the old JR’s Tackle shop just past Wendy’s.If you’re in that area during the week stop by and check out your new office.All phone and fax numbers remain the same.
Have a great Summer, hope to see you at the next meeting and at Charlestown RiverFest on September 9th
Posted on Monday, June 26, 2006 by Arioolala
Stripers Forever
This was emailed to me recently and I felt obligated to pass it on to all of you. I am a member of Stripers Forever, and I would like to see stripers become a gamefish. I am not delusional or naive and know full well that this is a monumental undertaking with a slim chance of success. Please do not consider this an endorsement from the MSSA and they do not think this is essential to the success of the striped bass fishery. It is our job to make you aware of all aspects of conservation, the best use of our natural resources, promote and protect the rights of the recreational fisherman. Check out their web site and make your own decision.
Steve Ariosa
Dear Striped Bass Fisherman –
Our favorite fish is under more pressure than ever, and Stripers Forever, a free membership, internet-based organization is fighting for them on many fronts. They need as many members as possible to show the politicians how many people depend on striped bass for recreation, food, and income.
If you haven't signed up yet as a member of Stripers Forever, here are a few things you should know:
Membership is free. There are no meetings to attend. Everything is done via the internet and e-mail. Many of the top fishermen in the country support Stripers Forever. Stripers Forever’s only goal is to make striped bass a gamefish, which means it would be managed for the benefit of the recreational fishing public, now and for future generations.
Here is all that you have to do, it will take less than a minute and cost nothing:
Go to www.stripersforever.org , Select "Become A Member" and fill out the very easy to follow sign up sheet.
This is a critical time for striped bass. Help Stripers Forever successfully advocate to protect wild striper populations by "Making It A Gamefish. "
Posted on Thursday, December 29, 2005 by Arioolala
Northern Bay Fishery, give us some fish!
Bill DePace is a member MSSA Northern Bay chapter. He posted this on http://www.tidalfish.com/home.asp
It seems there is a movement a foot and Denny Wolf and others like him are tired of the Northern Bay being left out of the Striped Bass Fishery. How about you?
I consider myself blessed to be able to pursue recreational angling of striped bass in Maryland waters. I commend Maryland and the DNR for the part they played in the recovery of the coastal striped bas population. However I believe that there exist great injustices in some of the Maryland striped bass hook and line fishing laws. Even though the bay is open to all to fish, due to constraining factors, some anglers are restricted to certain geographical locations. Several injustices exist that involve aspects of various laws concerning Northern bay anglers who participate in the C&R season vs. the Mid and South bay anglers who participate in the Trophy season.
First the difference in allocation between the 2 fisheries is huge. If 1000 fish were caught per day on the flats, which is a grossly over inflated #, and with a 1% mortality rate that would equal to 10 fish being killed per day. With a 42-day season that would equal 420 fish being killed. On the other hand in the 2003 trophy season, according to MD DNR data, 120,103 fish were harvested. So here is what it boils down to; Mid and South bay anglers are permitted to harvest 286 times the amount of pre spawn and post spawn fish that Northern bay anglers are allowed. And Northern bay anglers are only permitted to catch and release and have an incidental harvest. It seems that Northern bay anglers have been allotted a very small piece of the pie! I believe that this is unjust.
Secondly one of the most ironic aspects of the whole matter is during part of the time that Mid and South bay anglers can harvest fish, North bay anglers cannot even fish for them and practice catch and release. From March 15th through May 3rd Northern bay anglers cannot keep any fish and are restricted to catch and release in a small area that at times becomes overcrowded with too many boats, and or there is a lack of fish due to poor water conditions. During these same times Mid and South bay anglers can C&R all they want and can even harvest pre spawn and post spawn fish from April 17th to May 16th. From May 3rd to May 16th Northern bay anglers cannot even fish for them but Mid and South bay anglers can harvest them. So here is what it boils down to; at the same time that Mid and South bay anglers can catch and keep Northern bay anglers can only catch and release, and for part of the time we cannot even do that. I believe that this is unjust.
Thirdly there is no scientific data to suggest that catch and release harms the fishery and thus should not be regulated. Large sections of the Northern bay are made off limits to catch and release for several months a year, and let me restate that there is no scientific evidence to suggest that catch and release is harmful to the fishery. To make restrictive fishing laws that are not based on scientific data infringes upon one’s right to fish in public waters. Without proper scientific data to justify the existence of a law, in light of the considerations above, boils down to discrimination. In my opinion the discrimination is precipitated by economic and geographical causes. These overbearing discriminatory laws also become ironic in light of the fact that nowhere else in the country is catch and release of striped bass regulated. All other states allow catch and release where ever and whenever a fisherman wants. It is not the C&R guys that hurt the fishery. Our fish live to swim and spawn another day. I believe that this is unjust.
This letter is in no way to be taken as a condemnation of the trophy season, if the scientific data allows for the harvesting of that amount of pre-spawn and post-spawn fish, then so be it. What I am against is the great injustices that exist in the laws listed above. I see laws that are biased in favor of certain economic interests and geographical locations at the expense of other’s rights to fish, especially Northern bay anglers. I believe that these injustices should be corrected as soon as possible. To correct these injustices I ask that the regulations be changed to allow C&R wherever and whenever a person wants to fish.
In conclusion all I want to be able to do is exercise my right as an American to fish in public waters where and when I desire. I feel that my right to do this has been taken away because I have been discriminated against based on unjust economic allocations and geographic location. I respectfully ask that these injustices be corrected.
I would urge Maryland residents to contact their local MSSA or RFA chapter and their legislative representatives to see if we can get these injustices corrected. Copies of this post in letter form are being sent to the Director of MD. Fisheries, MSSA, RFA, and the Governor of MD.
If you are in agreement with this letter, post that you agree on http://www.tidalfish.com/home.aspi, and I will send your comments along with the letter. The more voices we have behind this the better.
THX Bill
Posted on Sunday, June 6, 2004 by Arioolala
SUSQUEHANNA STATE PARK
This is one of the treasures we have in the Northern Bay. This is from the Natural E-Source - April, 2004 - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources' Newsletter.
PARK OF THE MONTH: SUSQUEHANNA STATE PARK
Located along the Susquehanna River at the head of the Chesapeake Bay, Susquehanna State Park becomes a nature lover's paradise when it bursts into bloom each April. With over 2,646 acres and more than 15 miles of winding trails, the park provides hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians with unrivaled opportunities to view a multitude of unusual spring wildflowers, and its varied terrain lures visitors to hillsides bedecked in spectacular displays of the uncommon white trillium, Dutchman's-breeches, Virginia bluebells, dogtooth violet, windflower, and spring beauty. For info, directions, visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/central/susquehanna.html
Get your free subscription by registering online at http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/newsletter/newsletter.asp
Posted on Monday, April 12, 2004 by Arioolala