EVERYDAY OUR FISH POPULATION GETS A LITTLE SMALLER!

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Short nose sturgeon is CT's only fish on both state/federal endangered lists.
Actually, nearly everyone would like to protect and conserve all of our fisheries forever but, thanks to evolution and other factors, that ideal is not possible. Every day throughout the world there are both land-based and water-based species that become endangered or disappear entirely. Attrition plays a big role whether intentional or otherwise. Even honest mistakes are made,using inappropriate measures to control pests or invasive species in an attempt to avert a potential catastrophe.

That process in and of itself has caused much concern where Long Island Sound lobsters are concerned. Some blame chemicals like methoprene that were introduced into the water system. Some attribute the decline to excessively warm temperatures. Others consider both to be contributory while some think in terms of predation. Nevertheless, we have fewer lobsters in the Sound than a few years ago.

We are in the midst of a constant battle to conserve and protect our natural resources while the earth's population is ever increasing. The more people, the more food is needed and unfortunately, when it comes to feeding one's family, rules and regulations often take a back seat. Even without this pressure, species die off. So what can we, as recreational anglers, do about it?

First and foremost is education. Once we understand that even one act of conservation matters, then it is our obligation to pass that on to others who do not get it. Anyone who has ever successfully managed a home aquarium knows that it does not take long for fish proliferate and prosper. Those who did not understand the complexities of that environment or cared little, soon had few or no fish. Second, obtain a fishing license where required or, when appropriate, register with NOAA to be included in the national saltwater registry.

ACCSP (Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics Program) is a collaborative effort between various government stakeholders representing states from Maine to Florida that compiles and distributes accurate and up-to-date data on fisheries - among other things, the health and status of the population. In today's fast-moving hi-tech era, this information is collected from both commercial and recreational fishermen/women and made available through a comprehensive and ever-developing informational database to decision makers trusted with monitoring and protecting our fisheries.

True, over the past several years, Long Island Sound has been experiencing a transition as the water temperatures have risen. Cold water fish are becoming fewer while there is an influx of warmer water species - triggers, dolphins, ladyfish, even pufferfish and an occasional sea turtle. Even so, certain cold water fish that used to be in abundance are no longer - mackerel, winter flounder and cod. Notably in short supply, and the only CT fish species on both the federal/state endangered list, is the short nose sturgeon. The larger Atlantic sturgeon (associated with caviar) no longer spawns here either.

Without every anglers help, at least in a small way, our dwindling fish population will not be able to sustain itself, especially considering the current population growth. So, if a survey comes your way, act on it and respond in a timely and accurate manner. In the meantime, take only what you need, return the rest and help to educate your fellow anglers. Those least concerned with our fisheries are the ones we must be concerned with the most.

On The Water/Ice:
Whether trying to hook into a string of Atlantic herring, partake in a seal watch excursion, venture out for cod or straddle the banks of sweetwater rivers, it sure was a glorious weekend to do so. A bit on the windy side, the sun shone brightly as if to signal that the January thaw is about to wind down and an Arctic cold spell will soon be upon us. That being said, the 41ºF Long Island Sound water temperatures should reverse its trend and the 'hard' water that had temporarily permeated inland waters should return.

At least that is the hope of many ice anglers. These die-hard fishing socialites have searched for any sustainable ice, drilling/chopping every last bit in order to suspend a line to a waiting fish below. With this upcoming cold spell, It looks as though they may have their wish. Until then, these 'open' waters will have to suffice. After all, the same species of fish are there for the catching - only the tactic is different.

Fishing slow, deep and in oxygen-rich water is the key. Work protective cover, drop-offs, points and junctions where two bodies of water converge, especially where underground springs are present. Even though we're experiencing warmer weather than usual for January, fish are in their 'slo-mo' mode. As far as the main tidal rivers are concerned, striped bass are feeding intermittently as are northerns and carp. Stocked broodstock Atlantic salmon are taking flies/lures in both the Shetucket and Naugy rivers.

NY black sea bass season has been extended through February 28, 2013 as a result of an emergency regulation by the Governor in an attempt to help offset the economic loss to fishermen due to Superstorm Sandy. Daily recreational limits are 15 fish at 12.5". Fishing has been exceptional for many of those hitting the briny.

For all things fishy, on and off the ice, including the latest gear, bait, flies/fly fishing, rod/reel repairs, clam/crabbing supplies and licenses/permits, swing by the shop (203-245-8665) open seven days located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline's full-service fishing outfitter, where we don't make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better...

Tight Lines,
Captain Morgan

Unabridged column: Shore Publishing/The Day, Print/Zip06 week of 1/20/13.

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