|
In this issue:
As part of whelk regulations adopted on May 11, 2022, which include phased minimum size increases, the minimum size limit for whelk harvested from the Long Island Sound Region increased on January 1, 2026.
The new minimum size limit is 5¼ inches shell length or 2⅛ inches shell height.
For whelk harvested from all other marine waters of New York State (outside the Long Island Sound Region), the minimum size limit remains 5½ inches shell length or 2¼ inches shell height.
The next scheduled increase in size limit for the Long Island Sound Region is January 1, 2028.
-
Long Island Sound Region: includes all marine and coastal district waters lying east of the Throgs Neck Bridge and west of a line that runs from Orient Point, NY to Watch Hill, RI.
-
These rules apply to both commercial and recreational harvest.
In December, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) approved a 20% increase in coastwide recreational Black Sea Bass harvest for the 2026 - 2027 season. While these bodies establish overall harvest targets, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) is responsible for selecting management measures within that framework that best serve New York’s recreational fishing communities.
NYSDEC is asking recreational anglers and industry members to complete the survey below. Participation is critical to identifying NY priorities for easing regulations.
Survey responses are due by Monday, January 19. Please answer all questions to the best of your ability. Our goal is to develop a management program that meets required objectives while maximizing benefits to anglers and the fishing industry. Your feedback is essential to this effort.
|
|
|
|
