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
Comment from Glen Hopkins, F/V Watersport
This is comment on Proposed Rule
Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Pelagic Longline Take Reduction Plan
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