Paul Haertel of the Jersey Coast Anglers Association sent me an email late last night with the big news: The New Jersey Marine Fisheries Council had finally voted in favor of extending the recreational summer flounder season by eight days. The season had been slated to close on September 16, but will now continue through September 24. Paul said the meeting was well attended and the council listened attentively while the public voiced their opinions.
Three options had been under consideration, one would have extended the season by six days, one by 11 days, and the third by none at all. Representatives from the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association, New Jersey Outdoor Alliance, NJ State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs and Jersey Coast Anglers Association were amongst those who spoke in favor of extending the season by 11 days. Although a clear majority favored that option, other groups and individuals urged the council to take a more conservative approach and increase the season by only six days. Additionally, those on the fluke advisory panel had also recommended increasing the season by only six days.
Previously the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission had approved an additional bonus quota of 88,000 fish that would have allowed the NJMFC to extend the season by up to eleven days. Ultimately, Councilwoman Eleanor Bochenek made somewhat of a surprise motion to extend the season by eight days, an option that had not been on the table. Many of those in attendance applauded as her motion passed by a narrow 5-4 margin.
May anglers, especially those in South Jersey , feel that the larger specimens arrive in September when bait begins flooding into the inlets. Larger baits at that time can account for some hefty fall fish, which are end up being caught in October when they have to be released.
