New York State's Department of Environmental Conservation has decided to end Long Island's fluke fishing season early, angering local mariners.

Instead of the normal year-round fluke season, the DEC is ending it this year on Sept. 17. The state originally planned on canceling the season after Labor Day, but extended it after receiving complaints.

In another change, the state is limiting each fisherman to keep four fluke at a time. In order to keep one of the bottom-dwelling fish, it must measure at least 19.5 inches long.

In a statement to News 12 Long Island, the DEC said, "Unless we do this now, over-fishing will continue and we could be severely hurt next year."

Twenty-two fishing boats call Captree State Park their home, and several captains expressed anger and dismay over the state's decision.

"There's nobody very happy about this situation," said Capt. Anthony Gregory. "You know it's going to put a lot of guys out of business."

Capt. Neil Delanoy of the Laura Lee said it's not only costing the captains money, but it is also hurting the livelihoods of deckhands and everyone else who fishes.

The DEC is also proposing that next year's fluke catches measure at least 21.5 inches long. Several fishermen at Captree called that "trophy size" and even more rare than the current size limit.

To watch the complete interview with Capt. Wayne Westerlind about the closing of fluke season, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.