Tidal Fisheries Advisory Commission

Summary of Motions & Actions

Agenda:

Oyster Update of Upper Bay Sanctuary

Striped Bass Update

Yellow Perch Management Plan

Crab Update

DECEMBER 6, 2001 MEETING SUMMARY

Oysters- Discussed design and site selection for upper bay oyster reef project. Commission recommends that a portion of the site be capped with oyster fines or stone in order to note the difference in oyster survival and growth between this substrate and the processed (<10") concrete. The size of the reef is planned to be 4 to 5 acres. The size of the closure zone surrounding the reef will be discussed later.

Striped Bass- Discussed final harvest numbers for pound net, hook & line, and the haul seine fisheries and proposed emergencey regulations. The proposed regulations will:

  • Clarify commercial seasonal and weekly quota limits and establishes a 50 pound allowance for all landing limits.
  • Establish a boat limit for the number of individuals fishing commercially for striped bass in the Atlantic fishery in an effort to restrict the landings per day and help spread the monthly quota throughout the month.

Yellow Perch- The commission was presented with the final draft of the Yellow Perch Fisheries Management Plan. The objective of the plan is to protect, conserve, and manage yellow perch stocks on an ecosystem-based level. This includes collaborative work with other DNR units that collect data on habitat area.

Crabs- Discussed proposed regulations for the 2002 crabbing season. Also discussed preliminary results from the Maryland Waterman's Association survey. Overall, in favor of peeler size and change in tolerance limits.

MOTIONS

ACTIONS BY THE DEPARTMENT
Set up a committee to meet during the 3 summer months to adjust the striped bass quota per gear as needed.
Will be considered for next season.

Motion to accept emergency striped bass regulations.

Proposed regulations will be sent to AELR as soon as possible.
Motion against 5 1/4 limit. No action taken.
Want the Department to investigate and find data so points can be assigned to the possession prohibition. Currently investigating.

The commission proposes the following limits in attaining the reduction:

  • 3 1/4 or 3 1/2 on peelers
  • 5 inch female
  • tolerance limit- 10/bushal
  • 4" soft crab
 No action taken.
Motion not to take more than 7.7 points this year. No action taken.

BACK TO COMMERCIAL FISHERIES PAGE