Comment from Glen Hopkins, F/V Watersport

Re: Proposed Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Team Plan Dear Sirs: As an owner/operator that has fished exclusively in this area for 15 years, I strongly oppose a 48 hour notice requirement in this proposed rule. Most local boats in this area are small and make relatively short trips (1-3 days) depending upon the weather. I am sure even the least knowledgeable of you are aware of the extreme weather patterns we have in this Hatteras region of the shelf. Over the years we have adapted by making quick decisions on when to go fishing or to come home. Often times these decisions are made within hours (1-2 hours) whether to depart or not. Often the tide at the inlet controls whether you go or stay. This is a unique area with very unique variables; 48 hour notice is a luxury we DO NOT have in this area from September to June. My wife and crew can attest to that! Most often the best we can do is the afternoon before a trip. Please do not add another beaurocratic burden to an already difficult business. If you really want to do something, put some staff in the area and get them online with the current observer program. There are always local boats on the list and often the NMFS observers are not available. Use your staff to fill these voids. There are ways for you to accomplish your goals, but requiring 48 hours notice is not the answer. Please go back to the drawing board and come up with something that uniquely fits our situation here. As a side note, I would think the captain and crew of Stellwagon could affirm the weather problems we face here. They were only here for a short time over the last few years; just imagine if they had to make it here year-round! We do have to make it year round, this is my home and fishing is my family's livelihood. I challenge you to find man or woman who can give me accurate forecasts here for 48 hour notice and I will gladly comply. Until that time, please come up with something more practical and useful. Sincerely, Glen A. Hopkins Captain F/V Watersport