In December, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) approved a 20% increase in coastwide recreational Black Sea Bass harvest for the 2026 - 2027 season. While these bodies establish overall harvest targets, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) is responsible for selecting management measures within that framework that best serve New York's recreational fishing communities.
NYSDEC is asking recreational anglers and industry members to complete the survey below. Participation is critical to identifying NY priorities for easing regulations.
Survey responses are due by Monday, January 19. Please answer all questions to the best of your ability. Our goal is to develop a management program that meets required objectives while maximizing benefits to anglers and the fishing industry. Your feedback is essential to this effort.