The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) is hosting a public hearing in New York to gather input on proposed changes to the recreational fishing measures-setting process. The hearing will take place on January 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Marine Resources Headquarters, located at 123 Kings Park Blvd., Kings Park, NY 11754.
The event will follow a hybrid format, offering both in-person and virtual participation. Individuals wishing to join online must register beforehand through the ASMFC website. However, phone participants will be limited to listening and will not have the opportunity to provide input. Written feedback is also welcomed and will be accepted until February 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Comments can be emailed to comments@asmfc.org with “Recreational Measures Setting Process” as the subject line.
The Draft Addenda under consideration outline five potential options for managing recreational fishing limits, which include bag limits, size restrictions, and seasonal frameworks for species such as bluefish, summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass. The new measures will replace the Percent Change Approach, set to expire at the end of 2025, with a final decision expected later this year. The chosen framework will be implemented for the 2026 fishing season.
Anglers, stakeholders, and community members are encouraged to take part in this process, either by attending the hearing or submitting comments. The ASMFC aims to develop policies that balance sustainable fishing practices with the interests of recreational fishermen.
Webinar Instructions
Please note that in order to comment during the virtual webinar hearings you will need to use your computer or download the GoTo app for your phone. Those joining by phone only will be limited to listening to the presentation and will not be able to provide input. In those cases, you can send your comments to staff via email or US mail at any time during the public comment period. To attend the webinar in listen only mode, dial 914.614.3221 and enter access code 780-270-796. If you are unable to participate in your state’s scheduled hearing, you are welcome to participate in any of the hearings.
For more details, visit https://www.asmfc.org/calendar/01/2025/NY-Public-Hearing-on-Recreational-Measures-Setting-Process-Draft-Addenda-/2478