Problem

Rockfish populations are threatened by over fishing, unsustainable bait harvest, and water quality issues.



Solution

Recreational anglers can help the Rockfish Population tremendously by releasing the large breeding females. A slot limit allowing the keeping of 19-28" Rockfish would require that the large breeding females be released. This petition is to ask the MD DNR to institute a slot limit of 19-28" during the May 16-December 15 season and extend the catch and release only season through May 15. This would do away with the spring trophy season (you would still be allowed to fish, but must release all fish over 28"). This type of slot limit system has worked in numerous fisheries, both fresh and salt water. You can look at Redfish in the South for an example. When Rockfish get big, they are considerably more fertile and will return yearly to release millions of eggs each year. Smaller females do not produce eggs at such a high rate and therefore produce less offspring.



We need to do something now to save this fishery before another moratorium in the near future. Please signt his petition if you agree.



Personal story

I'm just a concerned fisherman who wants my 3 young boys to be able to catch Rockfish in the future.