With a few simple adjustments to the Magnuson-Stevens Act, federal fisheries management can be significantly improved for millions of recreational anglers. The Modernizing Recreational Fisheries Management Act (H.R. 2023 and S. 1520), and the components of the act included in the Strengthening Fishing Communities and Increasing Flexibility in Fisheries Management Act (H.R. 200), will provide federal managers with the necessary tools to more effectively manage the recreational sector, provide the councils with clear guidance when considering establishing catch shares in a particular fishery and ensure the best available scientific data is used in stock assessments. It is time to pass the Modern Fish Act and ensure healthy fisheries resources are available for families to enjoy for generations to come.
Click below for a video of CSF’s Sr. Fisheries Program Director Chris Horton on supporting the Modern Fish Act: