As a charterboat operator I definitely agree to increase the TAC to 3.403 MP for the recreational quota. I however do not agree with your extrapolated data. As a lifelong charterboat operator I have never, even once, been checked to see how many pounds of fish that I brought into port nor do I know of anyone else that has.
You say: "In determining the season length supported by the proposed 2010 quota, the increases in the average red snapper size and abundance that led to the overage of the recreational harvest in 2009." I say: Had I known that would have been a factor in determining the number of days allowed to fish for snapper in 2010 we could have fished for smaller fish. This is absurd. You analyze your extrapolated data with pounds and regulate us by numbers of fish.
You're killin us here. If sector separation and accountability will allow us to fish for snapper WHEN we need to fish for them, then let's get it underway. We don't need to fish for them during the summer months as there are plenty of other target fish available. We need a snapper season (here) during the winter months to sustain our businesses year 'round. If an annual IFQ would allow this, then let's get it underway.
Please allow us to resume profitability and to provide the much needed business for others with motels, restaurants, marinas and grocery stores. LET'S GET IT UNDERWAY.
Sincerely, Captain Tom Farley
Comment from Capt Tom Farley
This is comment on Proposed Rule
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic: Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico; Red Snapper Management Measures
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