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Anybody see this in the BDN? they finally got their way!
FD, a saltwater license is going to happen wherever there are slatwater fishermen. Not only is a license going to be required but a Fisherman Identification Number (FIN) is also going to be required. The premise is to help with data collection for saltwater species. Right now most data collected is gathered through random phone calls using the phonebook and field reports collected at the docks/ramps. By establishing this FIN, the states are better able to collect catch data by calling on only those who have been issued a FIN. In my neck of the woods most of the catch data and models used to determine the flounder regs over the last few years was seriously flawed. The scientist with the degrees who came up with the models and data would not listen to the fishermen who claimed the flounder were not being overfished. It wasn't until the fishermen actually hired someone with a degree to look at all of the previously used data and pointed out all the errors that were associated with it.Although I do not like the idea of being issued this number, if it helps in protecting fish stocks and establishing reasonable catch limits then I am all for it. It is no different then those of us who dove hunt and have to obtain the permit and report card.I'd like to add that were I do most of my salt fishing, De., the state initiated their own saltwater fishing license tailored after the Fed. regs. This way, any monies generated from the sale of these licenses at least stayed in the state and wasn't sent to the Feds. If the states wait until it is manadated by the Feds. any monies generated will go right to the Fed. These licenses are going to be mandated as part of a plan put into effect several years ago. So if your state jumped on the wagon before the mandate took effect, be thankful that at least the monies will be wasted by your state and not the Feds.
Boy are you blind. .
That will be it for me. I will have spent my last dollar fishing the salt. I will give all my saltwatertackle, and rods to my friends that still fish it. Does anyone believe that the license fees will be put to good use for fishing? I don't!
You won't be the only one. Especially if the fishing continues like last year. 8) What are they going to do with the money . Give it to the commercial guys so as to support them to continue to rape and pilage everything that swims.
It won't be long before you have to pay a toll when you cross town lines.
.need a "tiolet tax" next and see what that generates ...............