Presidents Message
By Bill Degnan

(from Jersey Coast Anglers Association - March 1996 Newspaper)

Wanted

a few good anglers, men or women, young or old, experience not required

(Prerequisite: Interest is fishing for your favorite species of fish )

If you look forward to getting away from the hectic work day or look forward to a weekend of fishing on a tranquil ocean or beach for relaxation and excitement then we want YOU !

JCAA needs people to help on committees of your choice. Being part of one of our committees does not involve a lot of time, just ,a few hours during the year to give you the satisfaction that you helped to restore your favorite species of fish. That’s all it takes.

Each member club has two delegates to represent them at association meetings. You do not have to be a delegate to help out on a committee, just interested in helping with your favorite species. The only reward I can guarantee you is satisfaction in knowing you helped make a difference for today and tomorrow. I realize that sometimes this can seem like a fruitless task, but we must keep trying for everyone’s benefit. It’s easy to sit back and say, let the next guy do it. But who is the next guy? Help us to help you ! Come to the monthly meetings and voice your concern or just listen to what is happening. Together we can get things done. Where would the striped bass fishery be today if we didn’t act?

Here is a partial list of committees that you can help on. Just call me at the JCAA office 908-506-6565 or fax me 908-506-6975 and let me know which committee you want to work on.

This association has not stopped growing since it started some 15 years ago. The fishery management process has also not stopped growing. Have you stopped growing in your fishing interest? Together we can continue to make a difference and insure a viable fishery for our children and there children.

Since JCAA is still growing we hired a part time secretary to work in the office. Her name is Rita Lynch. With her qualifications and enthusiasm, she will be an asset to keeping the office and us organized. At a later date we will be announcing regular office hours to assist you in the operations of the association.

People have been asking what is happening with the Alliance to Save Fisheries. As CO-Chairman I will try to answer this. The Alliance is still working very hard behind the scenes on getting support and CO-sponsors for Congressman Saxtons Bill HR;2655 to keep the EEZ closed to striped bass fishing until further studies of the fishery can be completed. The Alliance is also trying to get organized and pick up sponsor support so it can continue with it’s mission. More news about the Alliance will come at a later date.

We are still in need of a corresponding secretary. It’s not that hard of a job and with a secretary working in the office, the job will be even easier.

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