Atlantic States to Collect Sport Fishing Data by Capt. Chris D. Dollar
Remember MRIP? That makes two of us. That's not entirely true, but a brief refresher might be helpful. The Marine Recreational Information Program is a NOAA initiative established as part of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management and Conservation Act of 2006. The goal was to close the gap between how sport fishing information is gathered and how those data points are used to generate catch estimates, and ultimately better regulations. Opinions vary how success that has been to date.
Within MIRP the National Saltwater Angler Registry was established for coastal states in 2011, requiring saltwater fishermen to sign up either directly with the feds or through their state. With me so far? Now, beginning in 2016, all coastal states from Maine through Georgia will be responsible for collecting angler information per federal collection protocols. Officials say one of their goals is improve and maximize data quality and the efficiency of data collection.
On a related note, the sport fishing community has an opportunity to comment on NOAA's "National Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Policy," which is a set of principles that will guide the agency over the long-term. The comment period is open until December 31. The federal agency said its goals include promoting public access to quality fishing opportunities, supporting ecosystem conservation, and improving coordination with state agencies and other partners.
To access the data, click here.