Fishermen frustrated at new restrictions on keeping striped bass

The Atlantic States' Marine Fisheries Commission told News 12 in a statement, "DEC will seek feedback on the regulation during the public comment period and at upcoming fishery meetings."

Joe Arena

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Jun 2, 2023, 2:50 AM

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Updated 573 days ago

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New restrictions are coming for some Long Islanders who make their living by catching fish.

The Atlantic Striped Bass Management Board is implementing a 28- to 31-inch maximum size for keeping striped bass, with the goal of rebuilding their stocks to target levels by 2029.

Brad Reis, of Someday Came Fishing Charters in Hampton Bays, says when the restrictions go into effect next month, it will negatively impact his bottom line.

"There's plenty of fish to go around and they do not need to do this," Reis says. "This is going to hurt my business to the effect where I'm going to have to second guess what I'm doing."

Reis says all the striped bass that were caught during his six charters over Memorial Day weekend would have had to had been thrown back if the new size limit were in effect.

He says the move is counterproductive because throwing fish back will leave many injured that will eventually die.

"About 10% of the fish we catch and throw back will die," Reis says. "I think we're going to do more harm than good with the mortality rate."

Recreational fisherman Anthony Gucciardo, who also has his captain's license, says the regulation will have a trickle-down effect.

"It's going to affect local business tackle shop, captains won't have as many clients they want to come out and take a fish home," Gucciardo says.

The Atlantic States' Marine Fisheries Commission told News 12 in a statement, "DEC will seek feedback on the regulation during the public comment period and at upcoming fishery meetings."

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