Did you know it is estimated that 40-50% of striped bass that die each year from fishing were those caught and released alive? Due to regulations and conservation-minded anglers, most striped bass are released back to the water after they are caught. Even though most of these fish survive, recreational releases still account for the largest source of mortality for striped bass.
That’s why fisheries biologists up and down the Atlantic Coast are trying to better understand why some striped bass don’t survive after they’re released, and they need our help.
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) is conducting research to get a better understanding of striped bass release mortality; through the end of this year they’re running a Striped Bass Citizen Science Project which asks anglers to record data while they fish for
While this project is led by biologists in Massachusetts, participation from New Jersey anglers will help provide a coastwide view into release mortality factors as they may vary up and down the coast.
All you need to participate in the program is:
- A stopwatch: a wristwatch or smartphone can be used to record fight and release times (saying “hey Siri, open stopwatch!” makes it easy on an iPhone). You can also buy a regular stopwatch at any sporting goods store.
- A thermometer: most fish-finders already have a built-in thermometer for recording water temperature, if you’re fishing from a boat. Your car probably will tell you the air temperature on the way to and from fishing. You can also buy a simple handheld thermometer from any kitchen store.
- A tape measure: most anglers probably keep one of these handy, but any kind of tape measure will do. Sometimes it is easier to note the fish length against your fishing rod, and then measure that length after release
After sending in your first report, DMF says they’ll mail you a pair of aluminum fishing pliers as a thank-you gift. Continued participation will keep you entered into regular raffle drawings for Shimano rod and reel combos! Have questions? Email Massachusetts DMF at striper@mass.gov or call 978-282-0308. To participate go to Striped Bass Citizen Science Project.
