Division of Marine Resources is piloting a new Trade a Treble Program to help reduce Striped bass release mortality through in person outreach and giving out high-quality gear!
Making a small tackle change can make a big difference for striped bass. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is providing inline single hooks and bucktail flags to striped bass anglers to replace the back treble hooks on plugs and poppers.
Why Make the Switch?
Reducing the number of hook points on a lure can lessen the time spent handling the fish and the potential for foul and deep hooking, both of which are major contributors to release mortality.
How It Works:
- Bring Your Tackle
- Present a surfcasting plug to DEC staff at a Trade a Treble event or fishing show.
- Trade It
- Hand over your plug and DEC will trade out the back treble hook with a bucktail flag or inline single hook.*
- Hit the Water
- Catch some fish and remember to do your part and fish smart! Every angler can make a difference.
To learn more or find the next opportunity to trade out one of your trebles, contact Francis McParland at Francis.mcparland@dec.ny.gov or 631-444-0448.
*While supplies last. See participating staff for program details.
