The recreational fishing industry annually generates about $148 billion dollars and 945,000 related jobs. While NOAA/NMFS plays a critical role in sustaining fish populations and long-term environmental health, there is a growing concern that some of their regulatory decisions have placed an undue burden on the salt water recreational fishing sector.
Over the years, increasingly restrictive quotas that are not always based upon scientific data available have led to the closure of many fishing-related businesses. To date, we have compiled a report documenting 50 viable businesses that have shut down, excluding additional losses such as tackle shops, marinas and tourism-related businesses. While we fully support sustainable fishing practices, stocks of certain species such as black sea bass have been rebuilt to well over 100% of target levels since 2012 and are currently at 219% of their target. Still, in most recent years regulations for them have been tightening rather than being liberalized.
The Magnuson-Stevens Act mandates socio-economic impact assessments when implementing new fishing regulations. However, these assessments have not been considered when NOAA/NMFS implements new restrictions. Given the impact restrictions have on the fishing industry, their socio-economic impacts need to accompany all new regulations imposed by NOAA/NMFS to provide for a more balanced approach between conservation and economic stability.
Additionally, the recreational fishing industry seeks more involvement in regulatory decisions. Striped bass is an example of this. Further restrictions, including seasonal closures are being considered for 2026 that will result in more lost business. Policies such as the 28-31 inch slot limit for striped bass regulation was implemented with little input from the recreational community. Increased collaboration through industry roundtables and advisory panels would allow NOAA/NMFS to make more informed decisions to benefit both fish populations and those whose livelihoods depend on them.
Accurate data collection is essential for effective fisheries management. The current system utilized by NOAA/NMFS to collect this data is faulty leading to inaccurate data resulting in diminished quotas in the fishing industry and loss of business. We urge the administration to work with NOAA/NMFS to refine these processes to benefit both conservation efforts and economic stability.
A solution to these challenges would include a review of NOAA/NMFS operations by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to ensure alignment with economic growth.
Additionally, roundtable discussions between NOAA/NMFS officials and recreational fishing representatives could foster mutual understanding and lead to more balanced regulatory outcomes.
We appreciate your attention to these pressing issues and look forward to working together to ensure that recreational fishing remains a thriving industry for generations to come. We look forward to discuss these concerns further and working together to achieve practical solutions.