FEBRUARY, 2021 - • Issue 265 401-826-2121 ...

R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

www.RISAA.org 401-826-2121FEBRUARY, 2021 - • Issue 265

Representing Over 7,500 Recreational Anglers

The arrival of 2021 means it’stime renew outdoors licenses,including for saltwater fishing and puteyes on the calendar for renewingstate freshwater fishing and huntinglicenses. Monies raised by licensesare critical to purchasing andprotecting open space, providinghunter education and supportingrecreational fishing and access to all of that.

Circle ho

Your state or federal saltwaterlicense expired on December 31,2020. There are still people outcasting for holdover stripers andschools of white perch and it’s easy,with the hard weather and that Covidthing hammering us 24/7, to forgetabout renewing so now’s the time togo to www.dem.ri.gov and look forRecreational Saltwater FishingLicenses. (continued on page 6)

Non-offset, in-li

It’s time torenew your licenses

by TODD CORAYER

The RISAA “Member of the Year” isawarded, each January, by the Board ofDirectors to the member who has donethe most for our organization during thepreceding year.

The winner is always announced atthe Annual Awards Banquet (this year atvirtual Awards Night).

Service on committees, assisting onprojects or events, meeting attendance,event and tournament participation areall considered in determining who shallreceive this honor.

Note that members of the Board ofDirectors are NOT eligible to receivethis award.

When it came time for the Board toselect a MOY recipient it was an easy,unanimous decision:

Douglas “Doug” MacPhersonHere’s why...• Member since 1998 (22 yrs)• Served on the Board of Directors in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2018, 2019, 2020• Legislative Committee for 16 years since it was first formed, and served several years as chairman• Legislative Watch for past 10 yearswhich involved searching the RI GeneralAssembly web site, every couple ofweeks, searching for any bills introducedthat could effect fishing, marineresources, the bay, environment, etc.• Fishing Show help: 2006 to 2020• Youth Fishing Camp as a group leaderevery year since camp started in 2016.• And probably many more events andprojects that I’m can’t think of now.

Doug (and others like him) is part ofthe reason that RISAA has been sosuccessful.

Thanks Doug!Was your January issue late?

Last month I received several phonecalls and a dozen emails from membersasking what happened to the Januaryissue and why haven’t they received it.

I checked and confirmed that theywere brought to the post office onDecember 30, but two weeks later

- 2 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

members had not received it.Then on January 19, I started to

receive emails that the issue hadarrived.

I have always had an issue mailedto my home so I knew the physicalcondition and date they arrived formembers. My personal issue arrivedon January 21.

Get this. Our issues are printed bya Massachusetts company. Whenready, they deliver them by truck to theCoventry (RI) post office since that iswhere our nonprofit mailing permit wasissued. So, the January issue wasmailed at the Coventry post office onDec. 31 and delivered to my home inCoventry - 3 miles from the post office- three weeks later.

Just to explain what I know thoughis that all of our mail goes fromCoventry to the central post office inProvidence, where it is sorted and thengoes out to all other RI post officesAND to all of the 18 other states thatour news magazines go out to.

It’s unknown if true, but I was toldby one member that the Providencepost office was severely hit with COVIDand extremely short-staffed at that time.

Let’s all hope this world gets backto normal!

Online seminars a big hit!There’s no qustion about it. The

online seminars are really appreciatedby many members.

Over the past couple of months Ihave received dozens of emailmessages from members saying theylike the online seminar format.

Members who have never attendeda seminar at the West Valley Inn or Elksbecause of travel distance or work, arenow attending the “live” seminar orthey watch the recorded video seminarposted later.

It many still be several monthsbefore we can get back to in-personmeetings, but until then the Zoomseminars are working.

The Official Newsletter of theRhode Island

Saltwater Anglers AssociationPublished Monthly

Rhode Island Saltwater AnglersAssociation, Inc.

P.O. Box 1465Coventry, RI 02816

Feb 16 • 6:30 PM • Board of Directors

Feb 22 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar

Mar 23 • 6:30 PM • Board of Directors

Mar 29 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar& Quarterly Meeting

Apr 13-15 • N.E. Fisheries MgmtCouncil Meeting, Newburyport, MA

Apr 20 • 6:30 PM • Board of Directors

Apr 22 • 6:30 PM • LegislativeCommittee Quarterly Meeting

Apr 26 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar

May 3-6 • ASMFC Spring Meeting

May 18 • 6:30 PM • Board of Directors

May 24 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar

Jun 22-24 • 6th Annual 3-Day YouthFishing Camp, Rocky Point Park

Jun 28 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar& Quarterly Meeting

Jul 26 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar

Aug 3-5 • ASMFC Summer Meeting

Aug 30 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar

Sep 27 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar& Quarterly Meeting

Oct 25 • 7:00 PM • RISAA Seminar

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Member of the Year and more...

As everyone is aware, plans are moving forward fordevelopment of Offshore Wind Energy (OWE) south of NewEngland. This effort provides plenty of cause for conflict in therecreational fishing community.

We certainly recognize that many of the shifts in speciesthat we see in our waters are influenced by warming waters dueto climate change, so we want to support efforts to loweremissions of greenhouse gases including a movement toalternative energy. But at the same time, our fish and fishinggrounds are already under siege by increased commercial fishingpressures, pollution, and other human disturbance. It seemsthat the reasonable way to proceed is to work with developmentof OWE to assure that fishing interests are fully consideredand protected at every step of the development process.

Being the home of the first OWE development (Block IslandWind Farm), RI is leading the way planning for future uses ofthe marine environment. Development of these new structureswill certainly compete with existing uses of the marineenvironment, particularly commercial and recreationalfishing.

FISHERIES ADVISORY BOARDThe RI Coastal Resource Management Council (CRMC) has

been a leader in ocean planning for the last 10 plus years startingwith development of the Ocean Special Area Management Plan(SAMP) and the establishment of a Fisheries Advisory Board(FAB). The FAB provides input to CRMC from the fishingcommunity regarding development proposals for any new OWEprojects.

I have been involved in this entire process, representingRISAA, since the writing of the first Ocean SAMP. Now I serveas representative of private recreational anglers on the FAB.

In my role on the FAB I work together with representativesof many fishing sectors including party & charter, draggers,lobster fishermen, gill netters, scallopers and shore sidecommercial processors. (It does seem at times to be a strangegroup to be working with, but I find that we have more incommon than I previously thought.)

The FAB negotiated a Mitigation Agreement with VineyardWind for their project including nearly 100 turbines south ofMartha’s Vineyard and we are currently in negotiations withOrsted for a Mitigation Agreement for the South Fork WindFarm (SFWF) to be located on top of Cox Ledge.

Due to the importance of Cox Ledge to recreational fishingin RI as well as surrounding states, I have been very active

- 3 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Update on Offshore Wind Energy

The RISAA Legislative Committee’s mission is to provide, in partnership with the Affiliated Clubs, a forum for improving the knowledge andunderstanding of fishery-related and government issues that affect recreational anglers. An informed membership encourages involvement andadvocacy. The Legislative Committee will strive to advocate responsible fishery decision.

The Committee is comprised of RISAA Members and delegates from the Affiliated Clubs. The Committee meets two or three times a year,depending on the number of fishery and/or legislative issues that develop.

reviewing documents on this project and participating inMitigation discussions.

The entire permitting process for these OWE projects isrun by the Federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management(BOEM). Mitigation is basically the last step before a permit toconstruct is issued. The idea is that the project should belocated and designed to minimize impacts right from the start.All reasonable steps to avoid impacts should be taken duringplanning and design, prior to finalizing a Construction andOperations Plan (COP) and those impacts which can not beavoided must be mitigated.

In the case of fisheries, it is basically a financial mitigationthat compensates fishing interests for unavoidable impact tothe fishery.

The SouthFork Wind Farm(see chart), will belocated on top ofCox Ledge, oneof the mosti m p o r t a n to f f s h o r er e c r e a t i o n a lfishing areas inSouthern NewEngland.

Because of this, the value of recreational fishing in the areahas been estimated to be $1,050,000. per year by Dr. ThomasSproul, URI Professor and Technical Advisor to the FAB. Thisis true even though it is a smaller area than many other OWEleases with lower recreational fishing value because it is locatedon Cox Ledge, a glacial moraine with very high value torecreational fishing. This value is based on data from NOAA intheir “Fisheries Economics of the United States”.

COX LEDGE IMPORTANCE TO REC FISHINGMany of you reading this know that “Coxes” is THE spot

where private, charter and party boats go to catch bottom fishsuch as cod all year long. It is also a tremendous place forfishing pelagic species such as tuna, shark, and mahi-mahi insummer. Cox Ledge is visited by many hundreds of recreationaltrips every year and is written up in many fishing reports everyweek during the fishing season.

(to page 23)

See large version of chart on page 23

- 4 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Got a recipe to share or request for a certain recipe?Contact Sandie at [email protected]

Welcome new memberswho joined last month!

William ArnoneBarrington, RI

Kenneth BlanchardEasthampton, MA

Richard DoughertyChicopee, MA

Ted FurtadoRiverside, RI

John GarabedianBarrington, RI

Mark GionetGlastonbury, CT

Robert GouletAlbion, RI

Tony GouveiaBarrington, RI

Brian HarringtonPound Ridge, NY

Samuel JohnsonNewington, CT

Joseph McCoyNorth Providence, RI

Steve MeyerWaltham, MA

Jane MillerWarren, RI

Scott MitchellChicopee, MA

Steve PlakeNyack, NY

Stephen PonteMiddletown, RI

The purpose of the Welcome Committee is to contact newmembers, welcome them to the Association and answer anyquestions they may have about RISAA and its activities. Salt Cod Fritters

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb. salt cod (about 2 cups of cooked, flaked fish)• 2-1/2 cups diced potatoes• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter• 2 large eggs• salt and pepper

•

••

•

•

•

DIRECTIONS

from Yankee Magazine, 2017

Rinse the fish in cold water, then transfer to a shallowcasserole dish and cover with cold water. Allow the fish tosoak up the water, changing the water a few times as needed,until thoroughly re-hydrated, up to 24 hours.Drain and flake the fish.Boil it with the peeled and cubed potatoes until the potatoesare tender. Drain. Put back on the fire momentarily to drycompletely.Mash the mixture, add butter and pepper and beat until fluffy.Add the eggs and continue beating.Shape into 2-inch balls and drop into deep hot fat (375°) andfry until golden brown.

Codfish cakes may be made instead by dropping the mixtureonto a hot, lightly greased griddle and browning on bothsides. They are good served with fried tomatoes or tartarsauce.

Additional NotesFor flavor and an extra crisp finish, brush each codfish ballwith an additional beaten egg and roll in fine breadcrumbsplus 2 teaspoons chopped, fresh parsley before frying.

If you want even more flavor (and you might — this recipe isvery basic) feel free to add more herbs, chopped chives,minced onion, or even a pinch of dry mustard or cayenne toyour salted codfish balls. Once you’ve got the fish and thepotato, the rest is up to you!

This is a classic Boston Sunday breakfast with served with hotcoffee, baked beans and brown bread.

- 5 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association (RISAA) Board of Directors meets monthly. In order to keep all members apprised of Boardbusiness I will report here when appropriate. It is important to note that not all business will be reported here since there are often issues dealingwith individual members and privacy will always be protected. Also, some Board business that doesn’t result in any action won’t be printed.

RISAA Board of DirectorsJanuary 19, 2021 Meeting Summary

FINANCIAL REPORTS• Treasurer’s Reports

Treasurer Peter O’Biso, presented reports for both the RISaltwater Anglers Association and RI Saltwater AnglersFoundation• Investments

Richard Hittinger, 1st VP, updated the Board on ourinvestments as of December 31.• 2021 Budget

Richard Hittinger, as the Board’s Budget Director,presented a proposed budget for 2021. He noted a substantialloss of usual operating funds due to the cancellation of our2020 - and now 2021 - Fishing Shows, resulting in an operatingbudget this year of a loss of approximately $80,000. The Boardagreed that it was important to maintain as many member benefitsas possible and that we have enough in savings to cover thatloss.• New England Saltwater Fishing Show

Steve Medeiros, Show Director, reported that all exhibitorshave been privately informed that our 2021 Show has beencancelled. He said that 121 exhibitors transferred their paymentsto the 2022 Show, and only 15 asked for a refund. The newdates are March 11-13, 2022.

COMMUNICATIONS• The Board approved renewal of our membership dues in theAmerican Sportfishing Association (ASA).

OLD BUSINESS• 2021 Awards Night

Steve Medeiros gave an update on the Awards Night.• Charter Trips Committee

Peter O’Biso who is a member of the Charter Trips Committeeadvised the board that the committee had still not made a decisionon if (or how) they can conduct the charter trips raffles viacurrent virtual meetings. He will try to get an update next month.• Recreational Angler Electronic Reporting Project

Dave Monti updated the Board on the progress of the AnglerReport project. He said the main “panel” is in place which willlikely continue for a year or more. It includes Dave Monti, RichHittinger, Henry Cugno, Fred DeFinis, Steve Medeiros, RichardPastore and Richard Reich.

As of this writing the panel is ready to invite members totake part in “focus groups” to get the opinions of what anglers

would want to see in such an app.• Policy Updates

Rich Hittinger and Dave Monti gave an update on BOEMrequirements for the South Fork Wind Farm to includerecreational fishing in planning studies, and that Ørsted hasreached out asking if RISAA could be a conduit to send updatesout to the recreational fishing community AND hear all concernsand complaints as well. No immediate decision was made.

Dave Monti also gave an update on Magnuson-StevensAct reauthorization coming up in 2021.

NEW BUSINESS• Member Party Boat Fishing Trips

This is the meeting when the Board usually approves themember-only party boat fishing trips.

Again the Board agreed that funding should not effect thesemember benefit trips, but due to COVID we should not attemptthe annual spring squid trip this year.

The other trips (fluke, adult/junior and tautog) will still beplanned, but will not book the trips all at once now, and wait tofollow COVID restrictions booking closer to each trip. RISAApays most of the trip cost, and members will be charged thesame nominal fee as was the 2020 trips fees.• Grants

Rich Hittinger brought up a proposal that we (RISAA) iseligible to seek sources of grants, and as an example noted wehave received a grant to help design a recreational anglerelectronic reporting application.

Also, our Foundation has given grants for severalenvironmental projects.

Steve Medeiros noted that RISAA used to have a GrantsCommittee back in 2002-2005, but it was disbanded when thecommittee was unable to commit the time needed ininvestigating sources.

Rich Hittinger was willing to chair a new “Grants Committee”to seek sources of grants that RISAA could use for variousprojects and studies. The Board approved the formation ofthis new committee.

Rich Hittinger asked that we seek members who may haveexperience in grant sources or grant writing.

IF ANY MEMBER IS INTERESTED INPARTICIPATING IN THE NEW GRANTS

COMMITTEEplease contact Rich Hittinger via email at [email protected]

- 6 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

CORAYER: Licenses (from page 1)

A BIT OF HISTORY...Here in the Ocean State, the saltwater license program was

initiated in 2010 after being signed into federal law in 2006 aspart of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation Act. Somefolks, including me, initially considered this an infringement onour right to access the shoreline and catch fish recreationallywithout charge. Solid arguments were made that this licensewas in fact a tax on our Constitutionally protected right to accessthe shoreline. One writer said, “According to RepresentativeBlake Filippi, (D, District 36), it costs approximately three dollarsto produce and manage this license but we are charged sevendollars. So is the first three a fee and the second four a tax?Perhaps the discussion should be not what good things aredone with our money but why it was collected in the first place.Rep. Filippi and four others have introduced House Bill H 5352to eliminate our state salt water license on the conviction that itis unconstitutional.” There was some great discussion, butafter a few years, the data collection and financial benefitsbecame clear.

The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association workedclosely with the State to secure a dedicated fund which wouldallow license revenue to only support saltwater activities, likenew boat ramps in Galilee and construction of the new fishingpier on the old Rocky Point land. Classic Little Rhody; nomatter what happens there, we’ll always know it as Rocky Point.

According to RISAA, the restricted receipt account holdslicense fees, minus two dollars for vendor commission, whichcan only be used for:

• Administering and enforcing the recreational fishinglicense program

• Managing Rhode Island’s marine recreational fisheries,with particular reference to improving state-based fishery catchand effort statistics and stock assessments

• Enhancing recreational fishing opportunities

STAY OUTDOORSWITH RENEWED LICENSES

You can be sure that RISAA is at the table for each proposedexpenditure and year-end report review.

Another benefit of this program is that fees generated bylicense sales can be matched with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife’sSportfish Restoration Program, which has its origin with thePittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration and Dingell-JohnsonSport Fish Restoration acts.

That all means that participating states can receive a threeto one dollar match for a host of supporting projects. If youpurchase a federal license, fees are deposited into their generalfund with no direct return to Ocean State anglers.

Freshwater fishing, hunting and trapping licenses are validuntil the last day of February, 2021. While it would seem prudentto order your new license now, sitting comfortably at thecomputer, ordering your saltwater license, they are not availablejust yet.

Online sales of all licenses began in 2020 and, as is true withanything new or government related, things just take time.

Years back, there was expected frustration of waiting in linefor ten minutes for the nice girl behind the counter at Benny’s

to finish her parking lot cigarette so you could sign the bookand buy licenses and a troutstamp. Frustration there wasbecause the State struggledto get books tor stamps todealers before opening dayof trout season, but it wasalways good to pick up atoaster oven, snow shoveland bag of caramels whileyou waited. Ah, Benny’s.Perhaps it will be possibleone day to update months before your current license andstamps expire, but for now, you’ll have to put a note on yourcalendar for the last week of February to visit a local tacklestore or go online.

Freshwater license fees will be increasing slightly in 2024.Most will rise by only a few dollars, like resident hunting andfishing licenses which rise from $18 to $21. These overduechanges were part of House Bill 7171, which was signed intolaw on December 21, 2020. Our license fees remain below nationalaverages and given our relative proximity to excellent fishingand hunting opportunities, are a bargain.

ASMFC HIRIING FIELD TECHNICIANSIf all this talk of renewing outdoor licenses, fishing and data

makes you want to get more involved and earn some licensemoney, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is hiringthree temporary Fisheries Field Technicians.

Based on Jamestown, the part-time, on-call positions willwork as part of theAccess Point InterceptSurvey. Collectingvoluntary data is criticalto our understanding ofwho caught what, when,where and how. You aska few key questions,possibly weigh,measure and identifylanded species andreport back yourfindings. You may alsobe called to take a trip on a head boat to collect all sorts ofinformation. My personal experience with APIS workers hasbeen highly enjoyable and gave me that warm fuzzy feeling forhelping regulators and biologists understand what fishermenand women are catching, or more often than not, trying to catch.Send your cover letter and resume to Laura Leach at [email protected] with the (20-011) in the subject line but first,go to http://www.asmfc.org/jobs and read more of the fine print.

RISAA member Todd Corayer is a lifelong fisherman who livesnot far from the Saugatucket River with his wife, who supportshis fishing mainly to get him out of the house and a young sonwho regularly catches more fish than him.

Purchase license, paddle, canoe,catch fish, laugh all the say home!

Ahh, Benny’s how we miss you

- 7 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

How to convertTube & Worm Rigs to Circle Hooks

by DAN KING

One of my favorite ways to catch striped bass from my kayak is trolling a 15" T-Man tube & worm rig witha real worm. Unfortunately, because of the new striped bass regulations mandating the use or circle hooks withany type of bait, we can only use tube & worm with inline (not offset) circle hooks.

But tube & worm rigs with circle hooks are few and far between (and I’m too cheap to toss the stash Ialready have). The good news is it takes less than a minute to swap out hooks!

Step 1: Push the tube up the hook and grab theeye with a pair of vice grips; one quick twist andthe eye will easily break off.

Step 2: Cut off about 1" of the tube about evenwith the end of the stainless wire; being careful tonot damage it.

Step 3: Replace the 5/0 J hook you just removedwith a 7/0 or 8/0 inline circle hook using a 50#tactical clip.

Done! You need the bigger circle hook tomaintain the same gap as the old J hook;and the tactical clio allows the circle hookthe freedom to swing and work asdesigned to pivot and set the hook in thecorner of the fishes mouth.

Gamakatsu InlineOctopus Circle SE 7/0

USED:

Tactical AnglersPower Fishing Clips

I spend a lot of timewriting about fisheriesmanagement from a legalperspective - that is, about theMagnuson-Stevens FisheryConservation andManagement Act and itspositive impacts on the healthof fish stocks, and about how the lack of legally-enforceablemandates at the state and regional level has prevented states,and organizations such as the Atlantic States Marine FisheriesCommission, from emulating federal fisheries managers’success.

But laws and regulations are only a part of the issue. Theocean is a dynamic place, where fish populations - and thosewho seek to manage them - must continually respond tochanging oceanographic conditions.

Some of the changes that fish face are ephemeral, such asthe warm-core eddies that break off from the Gulf Stream andbring clear blue water, and the fish that prefer it, into the offshorecanyons and up onto the continental shelf, concentrating themuntil such time as the eddy breaks up or reunites with the GulfStream farther down the coast.

Some, while short-lived, can last a little longer. Cold wintersand wet springs appear to boost striped bass spawning success,while warm winters and dry springs can lead to below-average

recruitment.It was hardly surprising that

the 2011-2012 winter that wasn’t,which saw high temperaturesand little snow throughout theSusquehanna River watershed,led to the lowest Marylandstriped bass juvenile abundanceindex ever recorded, in a time

series extending back more than sixty years.It’s also no surprise that the same winter, which saw

unusually warm, salty waters flow across the Northeast’scontinental shelf, gave rise to the largest year class of blacksea bass ever recorded, because such warm, salty water isdirectly related to good black sea bass recruitment, whichhinges on the number of juvenile fish that survive their firstwinter at sea.

There are also longer-term, but ultimately transient,oceanographic events such as the North Atlantic DecadalOscillation, a term which describes periodic and somewhatpredictable changes in sea surface temperatures, and can havean impact on fish movements and abundance.

And then there are more permanent changes. I use theword “permanent” with a little hesitancy, as nothing on Earth istruly permanent—even the Atlantic Ocean itself didn’t existuntil somewhere between 170 and 200 million years ago, andgeologists are already pointing to signs that, as the continents

continue their slow and statelydance across the face of the Earth,it may already be starting to closeup and will eventually disappear.But for purposes of fisheriesmanagement, changes that spawncenturies, or even human lifetimes,are permanent enough.

And right now, the biggest such “permanent” change thatour fisheries face is climate change.

It already seems to be impacting the health of northeasternfisheries.

NORTHEAST CODBack in 2013, scientists at the National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration’s Northeast Fisheries ScienceCenter determined that warming waters—and the Gulf of Maine,off northern New England, is one of the most rapidly warmingparts of the entire ocean—have led to a marked reduction in thenumber of planktonic animals that are available as food for larvalcod.

That would have been badenough if cod stocks werehealthy; it is likely that ashortage of the zooplanktonthat larval cod feed on would have caused a decline inrecruitment, and affected the long-term productivity of codstocks. Such reduced productivity, in turn, might have forcedfisheries managers to reduce annual catch limits and adopt morerestrictive measures in order to maintain stock health.

But cod stocks were already badly overfished, which madethe situation significantly worse. NOAA Fisheries issued apress release stating that rising water temperatures “profoundlyaffected” the zooplankton needed by larval cod and by otherfish species, and that the decline in zooplankton thus “may beinfluencing the recovery of Atlantic cod and other fish stocksin the region. [emphasis added]”

It’s important to note that the scientists aren’t blamingwarming waters for the cod stocks’ collapse. Years of unabatingoverfishing did that. They’re saying that, with cod stocksalready in steep decline, the impacts of climate change on theocean’s food web, managers are probably going to have a muchtougher job ahead of them if they want to rebuild the stock.

Climate change, and its impacts on the food web, is just onemore reason why fisheries managers need to take a precautionaryapproach to managing fish stocks. If they make a mistake now,the impacts of that mistake will hit the stock harder and be moredifficult to correct.

And that’s not only the case in the Northeast.Recently, a study conducted at East Carolina University, in

conjunction with NOAA Fisheries, examined the abundance oflarval fish of ten different species in the Beaufort, North Carolinaarea. (to page 9)

- 8 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

by CHARLES WITEK

OPINION Climate Change and Fish Stocks:One Way To Move Forward

The ocean is a dynamic place, where fishpopulations - and those who seek tomanage them - must continually respondto changing oceanographic conditions.

Juvenile striped bass

The data used for the study extends back to 1986. Ananalysis revealed that larval fish now begin entering the estuariesearlier than they did before, and use the estuary habitat over alonger period of time than they formerly did. Although watertemperatures have only risen a modest amount over the years,larval fish species are entering the estuaries as much as twomonths earlier.

It’s not completely clear what the implications of that findingmay be. As is the case with cod, the impacts of warming water,and larvae entering the estuaries earlier, may all depend on howthe warm water affects the food web.

The early presence of larval predators indicates thatpredatory fish are spawning earlier; if prey species are alsoreproducing earlier in the year, there may be no problem.However, if the predator and prey species have not adapted inthe same way, and their spawns are now out of synch, the larvalfish in North Carolina may, like the larval cod, have difficultyfinding enough food. In that case, recruitment and, ultimately,adult fish abundance, could decline.

Another problem is that when predatory fish are still in theirlarval stage, they are prey, too. They don’t only need food;they also need places to hide, to help prevent them frombecoming food for bigger fish. Much submerged aquaticvegetation where larvae might shelter disappears over the winter,and begins to grow back in the spring. If such vegetationremains sparse when the larval fish arrive in the estuaries, thelarvae might find themselves more vulnerable to predators, andexperience significantly higher levels of natural mortality.

Dr. Rebecca Asch, the professor overseeing the NorthCarolina study, commented that, “with climate change for mostspecies you’re going to have winners and losers,” andspeculated, in an interview with television station WRAL, thattropical fish that previously only visited North Carolina waters,and were unable to survive there during the winter, might numberamong the “winners” as winter waters warm, while temperatespecies might find the same waters becoming too warm for theirsurvival, and number among the “losers.”

Summer flounder,which are becoming lessabundant in North Carolinawaters, may already befirmly set on a losing track.

Editors Note:RISAA has already beenpushing for fisheriesmanagers to adjust thesummer flounder and blacksea bass quotas in theNortheast since we haveseen increases in thesespecies (especially blacksea bass!), yet quotas havenot changed to matchshifting fish stocks.

The fisheries management approach set out inMagnuson-Stevens is largely focused on managingfishing mortality and rebuilding fish stocks, and noton the impacts of climate change. However, thediscussion draft of a Magnuson-Stevensreauthorization bill, being circulated byRepresentatives Jared Huffman (D-CA) and EdCase (D-HI) suggests that such oversight may soonbe corrected.

Title I of the discussion draft is named “Climate-ReadyFisheries,” and seeks “to account for the impacts ofenvironmental changes on stocks of fish.”

It notes that:“Environmental changes associated with climate change,

including changes in water temperature, ocean acidification,and deoxygenation, are rapidly altering the abundance,productivity, and distribution of fish and are affectingcommercial, recreational, and subsistence fisheries,” and alsothat, “The impacts of climate change on fish and their habitatsare resulting in management and sustainability challenges thatthreaten to negatively impact marine ecosystems, fisheryresources, and coastal communities.”

If the discussion draft’s language is ever made a part ofMagnuson-Stevens, regional fishery management councils, aswell as NOAA Fisheries, would be required to give moreconsideration to the impacts of climate change. When stockassessments are conducted, they would be required to addressthe impacts of climate change on the stock’s productivity, andexamine the vulnerability of each managed fishery to climatechange-related issues.

The discussion draft also includes language intended topromote the development of tools and management approachesthat would better allow fisheries to adapt to climate change. Inaddition, it would establish a procedural framework that wouldgovern how the regional fishery management councils, as wellas NOAA Fisheries, should address the problems created byfish stocks shifting into new waters, and abandoning others, asa result of a changing climate.

Anyone who has spent much time on the water hasexperienced the impacts of climate change. Here on Long Island,we’ve enjoyed the recently increased abundance of dolphin(mahi-mahi) and black sea bass in local waters. But we’ve alsolost most of our cod and—especially—winter flounder, cold-water species that were badly overfished, but might have beenmore readily rebuilt if warming waters didn’t compound theirtroubles.

Looking at the issue through that local lens, the discussiondraft is a most welcome approach, that might, Congress willing,force fisheries managers to fully address, and try to adapt to,the climate change issue.

Charles Witek, from Greenwich CT, has spent over 50 years on thewater, and is a well-known author and blogger. Witek said, “I haverealized that without strong fisheries laws and effective conservationmeasures, the future of salt water fishing, and America's living marineresources, is dim.”

- 9 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

WITEK: CLIMATE CHANGE & FISH STOCKS (from page 8)

2021 FOUNDATION DONORS

- 10 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

COPPER (up to $49)

SILVER ($100+)

�

Stephen MedeirosDavid MichelNetwork For GoodPeter O’Biso

Herb AdamsDavid ArmonPaul BoutietteTina BurtonJerry ChiricoJohn GarabedianCharles O’Malley

PLATINUM ($500+)

BRONZE ($50+)

Norman CabanaRichard HeffernanPeter HendricksWilliam Sokolowski

AmazonSmileMelvyn BlakeKenneth CooperJoseph EbertJack Guarnaccia

Paul ChmuraRichard Hittinger

William SosnickiBart Wagner

F. Charles HaighDr. Nigel HarrisonMark LamsonBenjamin Lenda

IN MEMORY OF

Charles BradburyRobert Sangster

Jing MarcosNormand MorrissetteRoger St. GermainRobert MaiettaHenry WalkerDaniel Watson

Name: ______________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________

The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Foundation

Enclosed is cash or check for: $5 $10 $25 $50 $100 other______

Mail to: RISA Foundation, P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI 02816Any donation over $10 will be sent a receipt that proves your contribution for tax purposes

Please print:

Enclosed is my tax-deductible contribution to

It is OK to print my name Do NOT print my name Donation made in the name of: _____________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________no. street city state zip

• Striped Bass Myco Research• Tag & Release Program• Tag-A-Giant Tuna Foundation• Ten Mile River fish ladders• Woonasquatucket River fish laddersRISAA/RIDEM Adopt-A-Ramp SignsTake-A-Kid Fishing Days 1998-2019Youth Fishing Camps 2016-2020

PREVIOUS AND CONTINUALLY SUPPORTED PROGRAMS• Blackstone River fish ladders construction• College Scholarships in Marine Sciences• Kickemuit River fish ladder construction• Mercury in Local Fish Research Grant• Narragansett Bay Journal publication• Newport fishermen’s ladder repairs• Ninigret Park Fishing Access• Pawtuxet River fish passage

• Public access adoption programs• Public education programs and seminars• Recreational Fishing Symposium 2013,2015,2018• Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation• Sabin Point Artificial Reef (upper Narra. Bay)• Saugatucket River fish passage, Westerly• Sea Grant research programs• Special Shore Fishing Scup signs for RIDEM

John PeacockLuca RazzaMichael SewardMichael TestaJohn Webber

Make your

donation now

and your name

will be listed

here all year

SALTWATER

P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, Rhode Island 02816 401-826-2121 FAX: 401-826-3546 www.RISAA.org

RHODE ISLAND

Association

The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association represents over 7,500 recreational anglers and 28 affiliated clubs

January 8, 2021

David Borden, Jason McNamee, Eric ReidRhode Island CommissionersASMFC Striped Bass Management Board

RE: Circle Hooks - Tube & Worm, Jigs

Dear Sirs:

The Board of Directors of the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association (RISAA)believes that requiring the use of circle hooks on certain tubes and jigs is unnecessarywhile fishing for striped bass. We have prepared this letter just to let you know that webelieve strongly that this requirement should be reconsidered.

While we are supportive of any measures to reduce release mortality, RISAA believes thatthis requirement should be reconsidered coastwide for several reasons:

• Striped bass caught while trolling tube and worm or jigs with a J-hook are hooked in the mouth nearly 100% of the time.• Trolling tubes are not generally available with circle hooks and it is not practical to rebuild existing tubes because of the way that they are constructed.• Because of the way fish strike a trolled tube and worm rig or a jig we believe circle hooks will not be effective at hooking fish.• We believe that with the revised process of rulemaking during COVID restrictions many people involved with rulemaking and the fishing public were not clear on the extent of this rule and therefore did not raise these objections earlier.

To assure you, we are not asking for this reconsideration because we are looking to ignorethe use of circle hooks. We have been supportive of the use of circle hooks while driftingbait for years, but we believe that they are not at all helpful in reducing mortality usingthese types of rigs.

Please contact me via phone or email at any time to discuss this issue.

Sincerely,

Stephen J. MedeirosPresident

Cc: Director Janet Coit, Senator Susan Sosnowski

Stephen J. MedeirosPresident

401-826-2121

Capt. Richard C. Hittinger1st Vice President

401-739-1875

Capt. David P. Monti2nd Vice President

401-480-3444

Susan J. LemaSecretary

401-932-3030

Peter R. O'BisoTreasurer

401-783-2364

Capt. David A. MichelSargeant-At-Arms

401-952-8697

Gary W. JohnsonDirector

401-787-5981

Robert S. MurrayDirector

401-378-5895

Richard A. ReichDirector

401-742-2020

Roger O. TellierSecretary

401-398-2670

Capt. Greg F. VespeDirector

401-662-5573

Dawn Filliatreault WoodDirector

401-263-3919

Richard C. Hittinger1st Vice President

- 11 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

UPCOMING SEMINAR

- 12 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Monday, February 22 at 7:00 PM

Successful Striper Fishing:Tips, Tactics & Techniques

EVERY MEMBER WHO REGISTERS AND ATTENDSTHE MONTHLY SEMINARS ARE ELIGIBLE TO WIN

THE NIGHT'S FREE DOOR PRIZE:A $200 Gift Certificate

To Any Member Tackle Shop(see page 14)

SPECIAL NOTICE!Due to COVID restrictions we will not be able to conduct an in-person meeting.

An e-mail with registration info will be sent to all members prior to the seminar.An online link or call-in phone number will be provided

THIS WILL BE A VIRTUAL/ONLINE SEMINAR

featuring

CHARLEY SOARES"Many readers have been asking me about the finer points of catching bass on artificials,"

said Charley while talking with RISAA President Steve Medeiros.Always willing to share his knowledge and to help other anglers be successful, he has designed

this new seminar presentation on casting for stripers that will detail locations, techniques andthe tackle. He says it will be a welcome change from theusual seminars. Although he fishes from Boston Harborto Long Island Sound, Charley considers NarragansettBay, Newport, Rhode Island to Westport Mass, Cuttyhunkand Vineyard Sound his preferred locations. He catchesstripers using all the standard methods but believes thatfooling jumbo stripers with a hunk of wood or plastic isthe ultimate fishing achievement.

For many years, "Charley Soares" has been one of the mostfamous names in recreational fishing on the entire East Coastof the U.S.!

Charley is a full-time writer and guide who fished Cuttyhunkand the Vineyard for the past 50 years and currently serves asField Editor for The Fisherman magazine and feature writerfor On The Water and Surfcasters Journal magazines. He hasbeen writing a weekly newspaper outdoor column for the past20 years. Charley published his first book on fishing the tube and worm over 30 years ago andhas five other books to his credit.

UPCOMING SEMINAR

- 13 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Monday, March 29 at 7:00 PM

95

Targeting Rhode Island'sInshore Species

Capt. Brian Baconfeaturing

SPECIAL NOTICE!Due to COVID restrictions we will not be able to conduct an in-person meeting.

An e-mail with registration info will be sent to all members prior to the seminar.An online link or call-in phone number will be provided

THIS WILL BE A VIRTUAL/ONLINE SEMINAR

EVERY MEMBER WHO REGISTERS AND ATTENDSTHE MONTHLY SEMINARS ARE ELIGIBLE TO WIN

THE NIGHT'S FREE DOOR PRIZE:A $200 Gift Certificate

To Any Member Tackle Shop(see page 14)

Capt. Brian Bacon of Big Game Fishing Charters, has beenfishing the Southern New England waters, from Rhode Island to theFlorida Keys, for over 30 years.

Brian has a true passion for the thrill of the hunt and love of theocean. He loves putting his charter clients on fish, while makingsure everyone has a good time, with lots of laughs on the water.

(Black Sea Bass, Fluke, etc.)

Brian and his team work hard and use a number of different techniques targetingall of the inshore and offshore species our Southern New England waters has tooffer. From live bait, to jigging, drift fishing and trolling, Brian and his crew doesit all.

Brian and his crew was named "2017 Charter Captains of the Year" by SportFishing Magazine. He has been featured in On The Water magazine, The Fishermanand Coastal Angler magazine.

Brian is a sought after speaker who has presented seminars at fishing shows andclubs throughout New England, New York and New Jersey.

R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021- 14 -

HOW IT WILL WORK• Since pre-registration is required for every online seminar, we will have the actual “Attendance List”, same as our in-person meetings did (prior to COVID)• Those names will all become the confirmed meeting attendance list.• The names on that list will be used for the drawing held the following month.• So, at the October seminar we will draw a winner using the attendance list from September seminar

It’s just another benefit of membership in the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association!

The Meeting Door Prize RafflesARE BACK!!

Adjusted for current online seminars...

THE PRIZE• Same as always, the winner will receive a $200 gift certificate to the tackle shop of his/her choice• The shop must be a RISAA member (see list below)

WHEEL OF NAMESThis wheel will have all of the names of members who attended each

monthly meeting.After the speaker ends the seminar, David Michel, our Sergeant-At-Arms will

load the wheel on the screen for eveyrone to view, and with a press of thebutton, the wheel will spin and randomly stop on a member's name and thatname will appear on the screen for all to see. It works and it's fun to see!

HOW WILL WE GET THE MEMBER NAMES?1. Every member who wants to attend the seminar must pre-register. When you do, you receive an email confirmation with a special log-on link that is unique to you.2. On the date of the seminar, you will log in using that link.3. The morning after the seminar Zoom compiles attendance statistics for us giving us the name/email of every member who pre-registered then shows; and if they logged in or not; and the time they logged in AND the time they logged out

Pete’s Bait & TackleQuaker Lane Bait & TackleQuonnie Bait & Tackle

Block Island FishworksBreachway Bait & TackleLucky Bait & Tackle

*Chose from any of these member tackle shops:

Saltwater EdgeSnug Harbor MarinaThe Tackle Box

Watch Hill OutfittersWeekapaug Bait & Tackle

• Must be an adult, regular member in good standing• "Good standing" means dues must be paid and up to date at the time of the seminar• Member must have been present at the end of the seminar

• Certificate must be redeemed within 90 days or is forfeited• Limited to one win per calendar year• Entire amount must be redeemed at tackle shop• May not be redeemed for cash

MEMBER REQUIREMENTS

was the winner of last month’s prize. He selected his gift certificate fromQUAKER LANE BAIT & TACKLE

MICHAEL IMBORNONE

- 15 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Congratulations to 2020 Top Anglers!On Monday, February 1st, RISAA’s 23nd Annual

Tournaments Awards were presented during a special ZoomAwards Night.

The 2020 Tournament awards were announced to the adultand junior anglers in attendance.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL MEMBERS WHOPLACED IN THE 2020 TOURNAMENTS!

(Special Note: Due to COVID restrictions we were unableto have the traditional Awards Banquet to hand the awardsto winners present. This year, all 1st Place winners who receivea plaque, will arrange to safely meet with volunteerTournaments Commitee members to receive them. All otherwinners who received Award Certificates to commemoratetheir winning catches will receive them by mail.)

SOME 2020 STATISTICSDuring the 2020 Tournament season:• 104 Yearlong Tournament entries• 45 Special Tournaments entriesOf those....• 113 were Adult entries• 37 were Junior entries• 114 were “Boat” entries• 37 were “Shore” entries• 43 individual adults and 16 Juniors entered fish.• There were 65 fish that came in either 1st, 2nd or 3rd• Of these, 19 belonged to Junior members.All anglers placing in the top three places, (1st, 2nd, or 3rd),

during the year are eligible for an award. Congratulations to allof the winners!

RISAA’S TOP ANGLERSThe 2020 Angler of the Year (AOY) and Junior Angler of the Year (JrAOY) were announced at the Awards Night.In order to achieve this honor, the AOY is determined by total number of points earned during the tournament season. Points are

awarded as 1st place: 3 points,2nd place: 2 points, 3rd place: 1 point.In addition the AOY must also exhibit good sportsman-ship, versatility, consistency and the ability to catch fish quality fish.A special congratulations go out to Nicholas Sannicandro for entering the RISAA Angler Hall ofFame. He weighed in a 2.79 lb

scup from shore!

2020 Angler of the Year 2020 Junior Angler of the Year

Nicholas Sannicandro Flynn Jansen

BOAT DIVISION ONLYADULT (federal min.)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet

JUNIOR (federal min.)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet

- 16 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

The Yearlong Tournament is a continuing tournament that runs from January 1 to December 15 each year. All RISAA members are eligibleto participate, and there are no fees. Official Weight Slips are available at each monthly meeting and at all sanctioned bait shops. Onlyauthorized weigh-in stations with certified digital scales may be used. A complete list of rules is printed on the back of every weight slip.

There are two categories: ADULT and JUNIOR member. There are also two divisions within each category: BOAT and SHORE.

SHORE DIVISIONADULT (minimum 1 lb)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet

JUNIOR (no minimum)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet

BOAT DIVISIONADULT (minimum 1 lb)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet


BLUEFISH

SHORE DIVISIONADULT (minimum 8 lbs)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet


BOAT DIVISIONADULT (minimum 8 lbs)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet


BONITO





FALSE ALBACORE





COD



HADDOCK



MAHI MAHI



SCUP



BOAT DIVISIONADULT (minimum 1 lb)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet


STRIPED BASS

Because it has been determined by theAtlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and

the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Managment Council thatStriped Bass are currently in "Overfished" statusthe RISAA Tournaments Committee has removed

striped bass as an eligible species for the2020 Tournament Season.

This decision will be reconsidered for 2021.

Albacore, Bluefin (no giants), YellowfinFederal minimums apply • 1st, 2nd, 3rd each species

TUNA

POLLOCK



FLUKE



BOAT DIVISIONADULT (minimum 2.5 lbs)1. none yet2. none yet3. none yet


TAUTOG





BLACK SEA BASS

The RISAA Angler Hall Of Fame lists the largest tournament entry of each approved species.Any angler who enters a catch that surpases an Angler Hall Of Fame record shall, upon verification of the catch, become the new record

holder for that species. In addition, the angler shall receive 5 points toward Angler of the Year.

Black Sea BassBluefishBonito

CodFalse Albacore

FlukeHaddock

Mahi MahiPollockScupShad

SqueteagueStriped Bass

TautogTuna -AlbacoreTuna -Bluefin

Tuna -YellowfinWinter Flounder

7.2020.4612.2049.1016.2015.657.85

37.8027.703.743.80

10.5077.4018.9055.00

193.88112.00

4.40

Raymond MorroccoRobert Matteson

Michael NetoRobert Morel

Charles BradburyKyle Blount

Nicholas BlountJack Sprengel, Jr.Harry TempletonJack Sprengel, Jr.

Kyle PaparelliRobert RoyPeter Vican

Joseph BleczinskiHarley Benton

Jack Sprengel, Jr.Randy Pereschino

Michael Lanni

201220172004200120042006200420102001201420092006201120151999200920011998

Location AW Marina, (New London, CT)...................•Block Island Fishworks (New Harbor)......•Breachway Bait & Tackle (Charlestown,RI)..•Frances Fleet/Captains Catch (Galilee).....•Lucky Bait & Tackle* (Warren).................. Maridee Bait & Tackle................................•Pete’s Bait & Tackle (Woonsocket)...........•Quaker Lane Bait & Tackle (N.Kingstown).•Quonnie Bait & Tackle (Charlestown)......... Riverside Marine (Tiverton).......................... Sam’s Bait & Tckle (Middletown)..................•Snug Harbor Marina (Wakefield)................•Tackle Box, Inc. (Warwick)........................•Misquamicut Bait & Tackle (Westerly)........

Maximum60 lbs

200 lbs50 lbs

100 lbs200 lbs50 lbs

160 lbs60 lbs

100 lbs75 lbs

400 lbs250 lbs500 lbs100 lbs

• indicates RISAA member* note at bottom those marked

SHORE DIVISIONBOAT DIVISIONWEIGHT ANGLER YEARSPECIES

3.8516.909.99

12.226.602.791.75

16.5451.6611.204.40

Black Sea BassBluefishBonito

False AlbacoreFlukeScupShad

SqueteagueStriped Bass

TautogWinter Flounder

Joseph PearsonGilbert Bell

Jack Sprengel, Jr.Jack Sprengel, Jr.

Michael TilelliNicholas Sannicandro

Jonathan PickeringRobert MoellerRichard Reich

Richard GallipeauDick Geldard

20092016200720072018202920082007201320092009

* hanging scale not certified, but flat scale is good

- 17 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2020

SPECIES ANGLER YEARWEIGHT

- 18 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Make your own clam opener

Many people enjoy clams, but cannot open them because they lack the hand strength, dexterity or experience. These folks oftensteam the clams open which causes them to lose the essence of their fresh flavor.

With this easy-to-make device, anyone can open clams simply and easily.

• Board, 5 inches x length of knife*• four #8 x 3/4 screws• two angle brackets, 2" per side• one bolt (I used 1/4" diameter)• one wing nut to match bolt• one stainless knife with thin blade

* When working with power tools, ALWAYS wear eye protection

• Drill hole in end of knife. This requires a bit designed to cuthard steel. Drilling is best accomplished with a drill press anda carbide or cobalt bit.• Mount the brackets at one end of the board using the #8 screws.The bracket holes may be offset so be sure to line up the holesthat will hold the bolt.• Insert the bolt through one bracket, the knife and the otherbracket. Fasten with wingnut.• Place the clam close to the pivot brackets, align the knifewith the clam’s joint and press the knife down gently. Verylittle force is required.

Materials Needed

*Use clean, untreated wood or synthetic material such as Starboard

Do It Yourself.....

by Fred DeFinis

Do It Yourself.....

Make your Line Un-Winderby Julio Silva

In addition to saving money, this low cost DIY Line Un-Winder also helps to save the environment. Build yours today and startreeling in the $avings!

I fish braided line when targeting trophy fish. Since braided line is expensive, I re-use the “rear section” of thebraided line on my large saltwater reels on my smaller freshwater reels. Hence, I have developed a simple DIY Line Un-Winder.

In order to make this DIY Line Un-Winder, you need an empty 1/4lb spool, a 63 long bolt, two flat washers, and a nut.

1. Secure the bolt through the empty spool.2. Attach the exposed end of the bolt to a power drill.3. Secure the line on your reel to the empty spool via tape. While holdingthe drill with one hand, use your other hand to keep tension on the line asyou guide the line onto the spool. This ensures that the line fills the spooltightly and evenly.

Once the line is removed from the larger reel, repeat this process totransfer the line to another empty 1/4 lb. spool. This will “reverse” the line.You can then use this second spool to fill your smaller capacity reel withbraid that was hardly ever used on the larger reel (the “rear section”). Theremainder of the braided line can be used for other DIY projects.

Kayak safety is at the forefront ofmany discussions in the kayakcommunity this year. While the 2018American Canoe Association statisticshave not been released yet, 2017 hada total of 149 documented paddle sportfatalities, which consisted of 94 kayak,44 canoe and 11 paddleboard deaths.

One fact that highlights the growthof kayaking as a sport is that canoefatalities accounted for most deaths inthe United States until 2010, whenkayaking took over the leadingcategory – and ever since, kayakinghas not relinquished the title ofdeadliest paddle sport in the United States.

While not all accidents are preventable, there are a few kayaksafety practices that you can work on to minimize the amountof risk you take on each individual trip. Here are some not-so-commonly mentioned kayak safety tips to help you maximizeyour chances of survival if you ever find yourself in a dangeroussituation.1. Understand the differences in PFD (PersonalFlotation Device) types

·Type I PFD – provides the most flotation of any PFD,suitable for rough water or stormy situations. The only PFDthat will keep most unconscious victims face up and out of thewater.

·Type II PFD – suitable for most water conditions andprovides great flotation in calmer water, but may require theindividual to tread water to remain face up in rough water.

·Type III PFD – designed for calm water or where rescuewould be very quickly accomplished. Type III devices are notdesigned for extended survival situations and will not turnindividuals face up.

·Type IV – throwable devices made for overboard situationsor to keep someone afloat long enough to direct the watercraftinto a rescue position.

·Type V – special use. This is a very broad category thatencompasses most inflatable life vests, special purpose life vestsand jackets, as well as white water vests. They must be worn tomeet U.S. Coast Guard requirements for vessel flotation devices.Automatic inflatable life vests are included in this category andprovide the most comfort and user mobility during use.

Each category of life vest has different uses and providesdifferent levels of protection during survival situations.Understanding what your life vest will do in these situations iscritical to making the right decision for your equipment andsurvival gear.2. Dress appropriately and for the worst-case scenario.

It’s a common kayak safety mistake to plan to go out on thewater for a few hours and not bring the right gear for an extendedperiod of time.

- 19 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Top 5 Kayak Safety Tips for Kayaking Alone

For example, if it’s a chillymorning below 40 degrees Fahrenheit,it’s convenient to wear a hoodie andsome thick pants and call it good fora few hours. But what happens whenthe wind is higher than you expectedor you get wetter than you planned?Having the gear and protectiveclothing for the worst conditions putsyou in a position to remove itemsrather than wishing you had them.

I often sweat a little during mywinter fishing trips because for me, ifI’m anything but cozy, I have putmyself at a disadvantage and have a

higher risk of an incident if my situation goes south. Alwaystry to carry extra gear as a precaution, even if it seemsinconvenient.3. Prepare to be rescued.

Nobody likes to picture themselves in a life-threatingsituation, but planning for these types of things can be thedifference between life and death.

Flares are exremely useful for helping you be seen andlocated by other boaters or authorities. If you’re out of rangeof a whistle to another boater, a flare or a good VHF radiomight be your only shot at being noticed right away. Manysearch and rescue cases would have different outcomes ifdistress signals or messages were relayed at the time of theincident, but many searches don’t even start until that person isfar overdue and reported missing by a friend or loved one.

Those first hours can make all the difference in the outcomeof a search. Even if you only fish freshwater lakes and rivers,flares and/or a radio can save your life.4. Always have your safety equipment within reachof both arms.

Imagine you’re fishing in windy, choppy conditions andhave a hook become imbedded in your dominant hand or arm.Could you handle lifting the weight of that fish and putting thatmuch pressure on your wound to reach your gear?

Personally, I have a pair of heavy-duty diagonal cuttingpliers to cut the hooks away from whatever is connected to it,whether it’s a fish or debris, to at least regain full use of thatlimb. I can reach these pliers with both hands no matter whatawkward position I’m in when this happens, if it ever happens.It looks goofy, but my big diagonal cutters in the center of mylife vest are a huge risk mitigator if I ever get hooked while theline or lure is attached to an object.

The point is to think about these situations and be able toplan for these things to happen so they don’t catch you bysurprise. If you ever want to see an example of this, check outChris Castro’s leg gear on Next Level Fishing TV. He alwayshas some emergency tools and survival gear on his leg forunexpected situations. (to page 30)

by Holton Walker

A team of scientists at the University of Rhode Island (URI)is creating a series of computer models of the food web ofNarragansett Bay to simulate how the ecosystem will respondto changes in environmental conditions and human uses. Themodels will be used to predict how fish abundance will changeas water temperatures rise, nutrient inputs vary, and fishingpressure fluctuates.

“A model like this allows you to test things and anticipatechanges before they happen in the real ecosystem,” said MaggieHeinichen, a graduate student at the URI Graduate School ofOceanography. “You want to be able to prepare for changesthat are likely to happen, so the model provides a starting pointto ask questions and see whatmight happen if differentactions are taken.”

Heinichen and fellowgraduate student Annie Innes-Gold collaborated on theproject with Jeremy Collie,professor of oceanography,and Austin Humphries,associate professor offisheries.

They used a wide varietyof data collected about theabundance of marineorganisms in NarragansettBay, including life historyinformation on nearly everyspecies of fish that visits the area, and data about environmentalconditions.

Their research was published in November in the journalMarine Ecology Progress Series. Additional co-authors on thepaper are Corinne Truesdale at the Rhode Island Departmentof Environmental Management (DEM) and former URIpostdoctoral researcher Kelvin Gorospe.

“We built one model to represent the bay in the mid-1990s,the beginning point of the project,” Innes-Gold said, “andanother one that represents the current state of the bay. Thatallowed us to predict how the biomass of fish in the bay wouldchange from a historical point to the present day and see howaccurate the model was in its predictions.”

The model correctly predicted whether each group of fishor fished invertebrates would increase or decrease.

The students are now expanding the model using variousfishery management scenarios and expected temperaturechanges to assess its outcomes.

“What if there was no more fishing of a particular species,for instance, or double the fishing?

How would that affect the rest of the ecosystem?” Innes-Gold asked. “I’m also incorporating a human behavior model torepresent the recreational fishery in Narragansett Bay. I’ve runtrials on whether unsuccessful fishing trips affect whetherfishermen will come back to fish later, and how that affects thebiomass of fish in the bay.”

Heinichen is incorporating the temperature tolerance ofvarious fish species into the model, as well as other data relatedto how fish behave in warmer water.

“Metabolism rates and consumption rates increase astemperatures go up, and this affects the efficiency of energytransfer through the food web,” she said. “If a fish eats more

because it’s warmer, thataffects the total predation thatanother species is subjectedto. And if metabolismincreases as waters warm,more energy is used by thefish just existing rather thanbeing available to turn it intogrowth or reproduction.”

In addition, anundergraduate at BrownUniversity, Orly Mansbach, isusing the model to see howfish biomass changes asaquaculture activity varies. Iftwice as many oysters arefarmed, for example, how

might that impact the rest of the ecosystem?The URI graduate students said the models are designed

so they can be tweaked slightly with the addition of new datato enable users to answer almost any question posed aboutthe Narragansett Bay food web. They have already met withDEM fisheries managers to discuss how the state agency mightapply the model to questions it is investigating.

“We’re making the model open access, so if someone wantsto use it for some question yet to be determined, they will havethe model framework to use in their own way,” Heinichen said.“We don’t know all the questions everyone has, so we’vemade sure anyone who comes across the model can apply it totheir own questions.”

The Narragansett Bay food web model is a project of theRhode Island Consortium for Coastal Ecology, Assessment,Innovation and Modeling, which is funded by the NationalScience Foundation.

Scientists create models to simulateNarragansett Bay’s changing food web

- 20 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

by ecoRI News Staff

The models will be used to predict how fish abundance will change as water temperatures rise and fishingpressure fluctuates

with permission ofwww.ecori.org

- 21 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

1. Land Them FastThe longer a fish is fought, the

less chance it has of surviving afterbeing released. If you’re seriousabout catch and release, try to landthe fish as quickly as possible.2. Don’t Go Too Light

This goes hand-in-glove withtip Number One. Using tackle that’stoo light for the species you’retargeting leads to prolonged fightsand exhausted fish that are eitherunable to recover from the fight orend up as easy targets forpredators. Also, light line is morelikely to break during the fight,leaving the fish with a plug or hook in its mouth that may hamperits ability to survive in the wild.3. Keep Them Wet

Keeping a fish in the water while you remove the hook willimprove its chances of survival. Not only does the water keepthe fish’s skin moist and provide more oxygen to its gills, itprovides support for the fish’s internal organs, which could bedamaged if the fish (especially a big fish) is hefted onboard oraccidentally dropped.4. Minimize Handling Time

If you must bring a fish onboard to measure it or remove thehook, do so as quickly as possible and get it back in the water.The longer you keep a fish out of water, the more stress itendures due to lack of oxygen and exhaustion. Also, handlinga fish can remove its coating of mucus, which guards againstparasites and disease.5. Water Temperature Matters

Generally speaking, New England species prefer colderwater (save for tropical migrants such as false albacore andbonito), which holds more oxygen than colder water. When thewater temperature climbs above 70 degrees, inshore speciessuch as striped bass, bluefish, and fluke have a harder timerecovering from a fight, especially a long one. This makes iteven more important to land the fish, remove the hook andrelease it as soon as possible.6. Use Circle Hooks with Bait

It is now widely recognized that circle hooks can reducefish mortality when used with natural bait. Circle hooks featurea clever design that allows the hook to slide out of the fish’sthroat and “lock” around the jaw hinge as the line tightens.

10 TIPS FOR

Better Catch & Releaseby TOM RICHARDSON

Other hook styles tend to lodgemore frequently in the fish’sstomach, throat or gills,especially if the fish is allowedto run with the bait for a longtime.

Circle hooks have proven towork well with all sorts of fish,including sea bass, fluke, andespecially striped bass andbluefish.

Circle hooks aren’t aguaranteed fix, of course, andsome anglers feel that using themreduces the number of fish theycatch; however, circles do work

in terms of causing less damage to the fish. In fact, some statesnow mandate the use of circle hooks when fishing bait forcertain species.7. Use Single Hooks with Lures

Rigging your artificial lures with single hooks also improvesthe odds of the fish recovering after release. Plugs armed with2 or even 3 treble hooks often cause a lot of damage, especiallyif the dangling hooks lodge in the fish’s eyes or gills. And cutson the fish’s body caused by the hooks can lead to infection.Using single hooks not only causes less damage to the fish, italso makes them easier to release, thus reducing the amount oftime it spends out of the water.8. Choose the Right Net

As mentioned, handling a fish can remove its protectivemucous coating, as can a net. Nets made of stiff, scratchymaterial can also remove scales and tangle with the lure or line,further prolonging the amount of time the fish spends out ofwater. Some nets are made especially for catch-and-release.These nets feature a shallower “bag” and smooth, plastic-coatedmesh that causes less damage to the fish and makes it harderfor hooks to get caught in the material.9. Different Techniques for Different FishNot every fish should be released in the same way. For example,an exhausted striped bass or bluefish may need to be revivedby holding it by the tail and “swimming” it back and forth topush oxygenated water across its gills.False albacore, bonito, and similar tuna-type fish, on the otherhand, do not respond well to this technique. If the fish is landedand unhooked quickly while being kept in the water, it willusually swim off just fine on its own power. (to page 32)

If you want or need to release a fish, it’s important, for conservation’s sake, to give it the best chance ofsurvival. And while you don’t need a degree in fish biology to figure out what’s good or bad for a fish, hereare some pointers on how to improve its post-release odds.

upstream as they did historically. Males or“buck shad” return first, followed by femalesor “roe shad.” They spawn usually at nightor during overcast days. In the southernrange (Cape Hatteras south), females releaseas many as 700,000 eggs during thespawning season, but both males andfemales normally die after spawning. In thenorthern range (Cape Hatteras north),females typically release 300,000 eggs orless during the spawning season; however,most shad will return again to spawn in thefollowing years, with some shad living upto ten years.

The young leave their natal (home) riverwithin the first year and will spend the nextfew years at sea, schooling in large numberswith shad from other regions and feedingon plankton and other small fish orcrustaceans. Upon reaching maturity – atabout age four – they will return to their natalstreams to spawn.

ImportanceAmerican shad play an important

ecological role in freshwater, estuarine, andmarine environments during its anadromouslife cycle. Once in the ocean, American shadare preyed upon by many species includingsharks, tunas, king mackerel, seals, andporpoises. They are also a seasonallyimportant prey species for a number of fish,birds, and wildlife species, with the adultspawning American shad arriving in theearly spring when other prey may be scarceand the nesting/breeding season is justbeginning for many wildlife predators.During earlier periods of high abundance,American shad played a significant role inecosystem nutrient and energy cycling. Forexample, in South Atlantic coastal riversystems, many shad die shortly afterspawning and provide beneficial marine-derived nutrients to the freshwater systems.

American shad played an importantcultural role to Native Americans and earlycolonists. Today, many communities stillrecognize their importance, holding festivalsto celebrate the arrival of American shadspawning runs in the spring.

(to page 31)

- 22 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Benchmark assessment finds American shad remain depleted on coastwide basis

Species Profile: American Shad

Species Snapshot

American ShadAlosa sapidissima

Management UnitMaine to Florida

Interesting Facts• Adults average 20 inches inlength and 4 pounds in weight• Range from Newfoundland toNorthern Florida• Opportunistic predator, feedingprimarily on plankton• Famales are larger than males

Interesting Facts• George Washington was an avidand exceptional shad fisherman• The Latin name translates to“most savory”• The State of Connecticutdesignated American shad as itsstate fish in 2003.

Stock Status• There are 104 discrete Americanshad stocks along the East Coast• Many stocks remain severelydepressed compared to historiclevels

Habitat Threats• Main stem dams in New Englandstates impede fish passage• Contaminant issues with naturalgas in Mid-Atlantic states• Dredging in Southeast mayimpact shad habitat, but unclear• Climate change impacts• Data on competition andpredation by invasive species• Assessment of toxic and thermaldischarges in watersheds

IntroductionEach spring, as water temperatures

slowly warm, fishermen and nature-loversknow what’s moving into the rivers.Following the scent of the water,American shad hone in on streams wherethey were born. These small fish travelup to 2,000 miles from their oceanicfeeding grounds to their freshwaterspawning grounds. As they enterfreshwater and swim upstream, they are afavorite target for recreational fishermen,as shad are known to put up a good fight.Many communities hold festivals tocelebrate the arrival of shad in the spring.As a forage fish, shad are an importantseasonal prey for larger predators,including birds and other wildlife.However, declines in many shad stocksprompted the Commission to adoptAmendment 3 to the Interstate FisheryManagement Plan in 2010 with the goalof rebuilding and ensuring thesustainability of shad populations.

Ten years later, the 2020 benchmarkstock assessment for American shad findsthat coastwide populations are stilldepleted based on the decline in landings.Further analysis revealed that Americanshad have not responded consistently tothe management changes initiated inprevious years.

Life HistoryAmerican shad are a migratory

anadromous fish that spend most of theirlife in the Atlantic Ocean but return tocoastal rivers and tributaries in the springto spawn. Adults are highly migratoryalong the coast with primary summerfeeding grounds located in the Bay ofFundy and three primary offshorewintering grounds located off the ScotianShelf/Bay of Fundy, in the Middle AtlanticBight (Maryland to North Carolina), andoff the Florida coast.

Spawning adults are capable ofmigrating hundreds of miles upstreamwhere impediments do not blockmovement; however, in most riversystems, they do not spawn as far

All you need to do is Google “Cox Ledge”or “Coxes Ledge” (as many refer to it) and youwill find hundreds of images and thousands ofreferences to fishing there including tuna, cod,haddock, pollack, mako shark and many more.

One of the primary reasons Cox Ledge isso important for fishing is that it attracts andfeeds many baitfish. This occurs because CoxLedge rises up from about 160 feet in thesurrounding area to about 110 feet on top.Since the tidal currents run primarily east andwest, when they hit Cox Ledge,nutrient rich bottom water is pushed up closerto the surface where phytoplankton then growfrom these nutrients and the food chain startsto “bloom.” The baitfish eat the plankton andthe predators move into the area to eat the bait.

One problem is that private recreationalfishing effort is not tracked and recorded like commercial fishingeffort or like charter and party boat trips. For this reason, Orstedand BOEM totally left private recreational fishing out of theevaluation of impacts and it was not included in the mitigationoffer provided by Orsted to the FAB.

After some education and discussion Orsted came back witha small consideration for recreational fishing, but at the time ofwriting this article the FAB and Orsted are very far apart on

- 23 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

what each think is the value of mitigation forimpacts to commercial and recreational fishingin the area of the SFWF due to construction,operation for 25 years and decommissioningof the 15 OWE platforms and cable that willcomprise the SFWF.

Currently negotiations have beendiscontinued because the two sides are so farapart and little progress was being made tocome together, but CRMC must decide what isreasonable mitigation of impacts of this projectby sometime in February, so there will be newson this front very soon.

In the meantime, we as recreational fishersneed to stay involved and push for a betterunderstanding of the importance ofrecreational fishing in the OWE areasincluding Cox Ledge. We need to push for a

bigger voice in how our fish and fishing grounds are managedso that we can preserve fishing for our children andgrandchildren.

The RISAA Board of Directors and LegislativeCommittee have been pushing these ideas for many yearsand we are now offering to help with a study to better quantifyprivate recreational fishing in OWE areas.

(to page 30)

THE WATCH: WIND (from page 3)

South Fork Wind Farm Leases Area and export cable routes.Souce: South Fork Wind Farm Construction and Operatioins Plan (Deepwater Wind South Fork 2020)

A pair of Cox Ledge cod

- 24 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

- 25 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

AnnouncingRhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association

5th Bi-Annual - Member’s Only

“Prized Catch”

4 Winners In Each Category• One Grand Prize• 3 Honorable Mention

The Grand Prize winnerswill each receive a $100Gift Certificate to a local

tackle shop.

THREE CATEGORIES“Scenic New England” “Rhode Island Fishing”

Photos of the angler and the catch. Thepeople need not be, but preferencegiven to RISAA members.

Photos of New England sunrises orsunsets, ocean views, light houses, etc.The marine environment should be partof the image.

Photos of R.I. fishing locations, withor without anglers, unposed, etc.

The contest is open only to “Regular” adultmembers in good standing of the Rhode IslandSaltwater Anglers Association.

The member must either be the photographeror the main subject of the photo

The member wins the prize Submissions must be either:

• Digital: no less than 72 dpi and submitted in either JPG, PDF, PNG or TIFF format• Digital scans of photographs* Printed photos are NOT acceptable

Must have been taken AFTER Jan. 1, 2020 Members may submit a maximum of three (3)

photos per category during this contest. Images will be judged on originality, technical

excellence, composition, overall impact andartistic merit.

Deadline: October 31, 2021

Every submission must include:• Member’s name, address and phone• Category of submission• Title of photo• Names of person(s) in photo• Date and location where taken• Other information to describe the scene• If member in photo, then photographer name Submission of an entry constitutes

agreement to allow photographs to bereproduced, published and/or exhibited by theRhode Island Saltwater Anglers Associationwith the right to publish your name, city andstate in print or other media in connectionwith the photo contest.

Submissions shall be sent as an emailattachment to: [email protected] or on CD bymail to: RISAA, P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI02816

Winning photos will bepublished in theRISAA newsletter

PHOTO CONTEST RULES

Submission Deadline:October 31, 2021

Photos must be taken between January 1, 2020 to October 30, 2021

Photo Contest

- 26 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Field Markings: Dark to light green with yellowishmottling. Females have an orange-green back and a redabdomen.Size: Up to 2.5 inches, head to tail. Carapace is threeinches wide.Habitat: Rocky shores and jetties, mud banks, salt marshesand tide poolsSeasonal Appearance: Year-round;moves to deeper waters in winter

DISTINGUISHING FEATURESAND BEHAVIORS

The green crab is one of the mostcommon intertidal crabs found in NewEngland. Green crabs have four pairs oflegs which they use to scurry sideways. Theirfront pincers are almost equal, but one claw is slightlylarger and blunt.

Green crabs are distinguishable from other intertidal crabsby their color and the shape of their carapace, although, whenyoung, they are often mistaken for the white-fingered mud crab.Green crabs are shaped like a fan, but their carapace is usuallysquare. Between the eye sockets are three sharp points or teeth,and five points run along the side of the carapace, curves towardthe side of each eye socket.

These crabs are predators and scavengers, feeding mostlyon and around mussel beds. Green crabs, also prey upon smallworms, mollusks and crustaceans.

In turn they are a favorite food for gulls, herons and bottomfish such as the tautog.

Adult crabs forage in the subtidal shore following the tideand stay submerged much of the time. During the winter months,adults and large juveniles migrate into deeper waters of the Bay.Other juveniles remain in the harsh intertidal zone year-roundand are frequently exposed with the receding tide.

The green crab is voracious, often called the “angry crab.”It is an aggressive fighter and moves quickly,

which helps it escape many confrontations.The green crab can tolerate a wide range

of environmental extremes inintertidal zones, including lowsalinity levels, cold temperaturesand drying out. It can withstandbrackish conditions and is able tolive in salinities as low as six partsper thousand.

RELATIONSHIP TOPEOPLE

Introduced from Europe, green crabs have become one ofthe most common crabs along New England shores, includingNarragansett Bay. Until a few decades ago, they were uncommonin Maine, but now they thrive there in the coastal rocky regions.

Green crabs are major predators on soft-shelled clams andare believed to be destructive to the population. They are alsoused extensively as bait, particularly in the recreational tautogfishery.

Green CrabCommon Nicknames: European Shore Crab

Scientific name: Carcinus Maenas

- 27 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

)

Penn International V-Series IGFA 50 classrod and IGFA 70 ((50-80) class rod. Both havestraight and bent butts and bags, never beenfished, all roller trolling rods look brand new.$250 ea. Contact Terry Tehan at 508-557-1016--------------------------------------------------------

21’4” Stratos CC, 1998 w/Honda 135 4 Stroke2004 w/less than 300 hrs, Garmin ECHOMAPG3 94SV installed this spring. Recently installedr a d i ow i t hB l u e -t o o t ha n dspeakersa n dnew 2-way radio. $13,500 or best offer. CallTom 860-287-1550 in Charlestown at marina.--------------------------------------------------------

14’ G3 aluminum boat, 1998 w/4-strokeYamaha 9.9 engine, 1998 and cox trailer w/newti res .Motorh a sapprox70 hrson it.Asking $2,600 or best offer. Call Ron at 401-480-8955-------------------------------------------------------

2000 Ocean Kayak Malibu Two, 12' long x34" wide. 61 lbs. $500. Call Capt. Jack at 401-640-0865 or email maverickfish@verizon.net--------------------------------------------------------Necky RIP 10-6 Kayak, barely used, ready forspring. Blue, 10.5’ long, 43 lbs. Roomy 46.5 x19.5-inch cockpit, 280-pound weight capacity,w i t hs e a l e ds t o r a g ec o m p a r -t m e n t .Includesp a d d l e .$299. Call Tom in Charlestown at 401-364-1914-------------------------------------------------------

Scientific Anglers AtlanticSalmon Spey Flyline. WeightForward Floating. 53 ft head,131 ft overall. Your choice, 10/11, 9/10, 8/9. I have one ofeach. $30 each. [email protected] or 860-710-9515------------------------------------------------------

Boat bottoms, cleaning, painting; small engines,plus general labor/yard work. Call Nick at401-339-218-9163-------------------------------------------------------

Raymarine C-70GPS Fishfinderwith 18" radar dome,all working order.Navionics card.$800 OBO. CallMike at 401-364-0027--------------------------------------------------------

Humminbird 797CGPS Fishfinder, sidescan, weather sense,Navionics card.$140 OBO.Call Mike at 401-364-0027--------------------------

Humminbird WideEye Fishfinder.$20 OBO.Call Mike at 401-364-0027---------------------------

Protech-4 Batterycharger/inverter.$60 OBO. CallMike at 401-364-0027--------------------------------------------------------

Sea Scan aluminum radarmount, 10 inch.$100 OBO.Call Mike at 401-364-0027----------------------------------

350 HP Yamaha LF350 4-stroke V8, 2009. Newexhaust manifolds, has had flywheel service.$5,000 or BO, contact Bob 860-965-8812-------------------------------------------------------

Trailer for 2 kayaks or one boat. Galvanizedw/elevation handle. $700. Call Capt. Jack at 401-640-0865 or email [email protected]

A bad dayfishing is stillbetter than agood day at

work!

Pro pulse 4 blade adjustablecomposite propeller fits Evinrude.$60 OBO.Call Mike at 401-364-0027-------------------------------------------------------

RISAA MEMBERS:SEND YOUR CLASSIFIED AD [email protected]. It will run for three months atno cost.-------------------------------------------------------

Henderson Wet Suits: XLfarmer john, in good shape,and a Med farmer john andjacket in excellent condition.$50 for both.Call Steve at 860-712-8891-----------------------------------

- 28 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

2021 College Scholarships ProgramWe encourage the participation of every member by helping us to raise awareness of our scholarship programs. Please let your

friends and family know about this program and tell them to spread the word.

How to applyIf you have a child who is a high school senior, or know someone who is eligible to apply, let them know about ourscholarship programs. Applications and information is available:

• E-mail to [email protected]• RISAA web site. Go to www.risaa.org and click on the “Scholarships” button.• Call the RISAA office at 401-826-2121• School's Guidance Office. Every Rhode Island high school guidance office will have been sent a copy of our Fisheries & Marine Sciences Award application.• Application must be postmarked or received by May 5, 2021

• Any RISAA member in good standing or their immediate family, specifically, theirchildren or stepchildren, grandchildren, brother or sister, or stepbrother or stepsister, whois currently a high school senior and will attend ANY college or university within one year,may apply for the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association Member Scholarship.• The student does NOT have to pursue a marine science. Any degree program at any college is acceptable.• $600 scholarships are awarded.

Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers

FOUNDATION AWARDS

Awarded to any Rhode Island high school senior whowill be attending either the University of Rhode Islandor Roger Williams University, in a Fisheries or MarineSciences program, within 1 year.Three $500 Scholarships are awarded, and therecipient does not have to be connected with RISAAin any way.

FISHERIES AND MARINE SCIENCESSCHOLARSHIP

FISHERIES AND MARINE SCIENCESCONTINUING EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP

Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association

MEMBER SCHOLARSHIPS

Copies of the MEMBER SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION are available at theMONTHLY MEETINGS

Awarded to any to any student currently enrolledat either the University of Rhode Island or RogerWilliams University, and entering his/her second yearin a Marine Sciences program.$500 Scholarships are awarded, to one student ateach University.

Stephen J. Therrien Memorial ScholarshipThe Stephen J. Therrien Memorial Scholarship is RISAA's most prestigious merit-based award and recognizes

students who show outstanding academic achievement and commitment. Therrien Scholars are intellectuallycurious and have demonstrated passion, experiences, or achievements beyond the usual. They are, in otherwords, not just top students, but extraordinary people. All qualified candidates who apply for either the RhodeIsland Saltwater Anglers Foundation's "Fisheries and Marine Sciences Scholarship" or the "Marine SciencesContinuing Education Scholarship" will be considered for this award. These are $500 Scholarships.

5) Enclosed is cash or check for: $10 $25 $50 $100 other____ (make payble to: RISAA PAC)

7) From time to time we will acknowledge the names of contributors in our newsletter, but you can remain anonymous, if you prefer. It is OK to print my name Do NOT print my name

6) Donations can ONLY be accepted from individuals. No company or organization check can be accepted. (R.I. law)

Mail to: RISAA PAC, P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI 02816

Please print:

- 29 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Robert Sangster

One of the missions of RISAA is to represent theconcerns of the recreational community on regulatory andlegislative issues. That means that we have to deal withelected officials.

Fortunately, there are a number of legislators who haveworked hard on our behalf and others who support RISAAprinciples. We need to be sure those officials remain inoffice.

It is also important that legislators understand who weare. If we don’t advance our own causes, no one will do itfor us.

By law, our Association can not contribute funds to anycandidate, therefore we have established a legal,incorporated and registered Political ActionCommittee which CAN make contributions on our behalf.It has an independent treasurer and its own bank account.

Only donations specifically made to the RISAA PAC can beused. Under no circumstances can any membership duesmoney - or any other contribution made to the Association -be used for the PAC. It would be a violation of state electionlaws for any money from RISAA to be used for PAC purposes.

Also, all money received by the PAC must come fromindividual donors. No contribution can be accepted from anyorganization or business interest.

How it works. The RISAA PAC Committee first receivesrequests for contributions. If the PAC Committee determines acandidate is pro-recreational fishing, pro-environment, etc. it canapprove a request, that recommendation is forwarded to theRISAA Board of Directors which has the final vote on all PACdonations. Every PAC expenditure must pass this 2-step process.

Democracy is not a spectator sport.To be effective, we must participate in the system.

It's time for recreational anglers to stand up and be counted!Enclosed is my contribution to the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association

POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE.

�

1) Name: ______________________________________________________ 2) Phone: __________________3) Address: ________________________________________________________________________________

no. street city state zip4) Place of employment: ________________________________________________________ (required by law)

Address:_______________________________________________________________________________no. street city state zip

With your help we can continue to work within the political system tosafeguard the rights and traditions of recreational fishing

Melvyn BlakeRobert Brazil

Kenneth CooperBraden KaneJohn Peacock

Stephen Medeiros

COPPER (up to $49) BRONZE ($50+) SILVER ($100+) GOLD ($200+)

.

PLATINUM ($500+)

.

2021 PAC DONORS TO DATE

- 30 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

THE WATCH (from page 23)

n

Manufacturer of FineTerminal Tackle for the

Saltwater Fisherman

Snelled Hooks, Top andBottom Rigs, Lures, Tubes,Leadheads, Umbrella Rigs

and more....

P.O. Box 763Londonderry, NH 03053Tel: 603-434-4689Fax: 603-432-3902E-mail:[email protected]

Check out our web site atwww.seawolfetackle.com

Owned and operated byRichard and Judy Wolfe

IN OTHER WIND FARM NEWS.....Vineyard Wind announced its intent to use GE Renewable

Energy’s Haliade-X wind turbine generator for the VineyardWind 1 project. They temporarily withdrew their Constructionand Operations Plan from further review by BOEM to allow foran updated analysis based on this turbine type.

More information from Vineyard Wind is available athttps://www.vineyardwind.com/press-releases/2020/12/1/vineyard-wind-selects-ge-renewable-energy-as-preferred-turbine-supplier.

In response, BOEM announced that since the Constructionand Operations Plan was withdrawn, “there is no longer aproposal… awaiting technical and environmental review, nor isthere a decision pending before BOEM. Thus…the preparationand completion of an [Environmental Impact Statement] is nolonger necessary and the process is hereby terminated.”

More information from BOEM is available online. Thetimeline of next steps for Vineyard Wind has yet to bedetermined.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) isseeking public comments on a Draft Environmental ImpactStatement for the South Fork Wind Farm Construction andOperations Plan.

South Fork Wind is proposing to construct up to 15 windturbines approximately 19 miles southeast of Block Island, RhodeIsland, and 35 miles east of Montauk Point, New York.

Three virtual public meetings will be held on February 9 at1:00 p.m., February 11 at 5:00 p.m., and February 16 at 5:00 p.m.More information, including the Draft Environmental ImpactStatement, instructions for providing comments, and moreinformation on the public meetings is available at https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy/south-fork-wind-farm-virtual-meetings.

Comments must be submitted by 11:59 PM on February 22,2021. (At time of this writing RISAA is preparing comments forsubmittal.)

If you are interested in these efforts or you are interested inthe Legislative Committee or if you just have input for me totake to the FAB, I welcome you the reach out to me [email protected]

Thank you for reading,Rich Hittinger

KAYAK SAFETY (from page 19)5. Is your kayak rigged to flip?

This can be a contradicting kayak safety question at firstglance. Is your kayak rigged to flip to save your gear, or saveyourself?

Tethers, line, trolleys and gear are valuable, but they canalso create a tangle hazard when you’re flipped and in proximityto them underwater. I use every gear leash I have when I amactively fishing, but when I’m in a situation where I think flippingmy kayak could happen, I disconnect everything, lay the geardown and use bungees that do not move and will not createtangle hazards for me if I flip with my kayak.

Another important point on flipping a kayak is to alwaysstay upswell of the kayak. If you’re on the side of the kayakfacing the wave direction, a wave can throw the kayak intoyour body or head, which risks serious injury to you and inturn can impact your ability to swim and tread water. Withkayak seats getting higher and higher, high winds can reallyincrease your chances of flipping in rough conditions.

While these kayak safety tips may seem like planning forthe worst-case scenario, there is a reason for it. Writer AlanLakein once said, “Planning is bringing the future into thepresent, so you can do something about it now.”

I plan because I spent eight years of my life in the UnitedStates Coast Guard observing and responding to situationsthat every single person I helped never planned or dreamedthey would be in. Take these tips into consideration, and alwayskeep in mind that it could happen to you.

About the AuthorAfter serving our country in the Coast Guard for eight yearsHolton Walker lives in Tyler, Texas. He is an avid angler,having grown up fishing the Laguna Madre in Corpus Christi,Texas. Now, Holton spends his time fishing freshwater lakes

Stock StatusThe 2020

benchmark stocka s s e s s m e n tidentified 104separate tributariesor potentialindividual stocks.American shadstocks are river-specific; that is, eachmajor tributaryalong the Atlanticcoast appears tohave its ownspawning stock.Similar to the resultsof the 2007assessment, the 2020benchmark stockassessment foundc o a s t w i d epopulations to be

depleted. The abundance status relative to historic levels formost systems is unknown, but was determined to be depletedin the Potomac and Hudson, and not depleted for the AlbemarleSound.

The assessment also evaluated current habitat accessibility,and found that 40% of historic American shad habitat iscurrently blocked by dams and other barriers. Recovery ofAmerican shad stocks will have to address habitat loss inaddition to a combination of other factors that have contributedto shad declines, including overfishing, predation by non-nativespecies, pollution, and climate change.

Atlantic Coastal ManagementIn 2010, the Commission’s Shad and River Herring

Management Board approved Amendment 3. In an effort tosupport the recovery of depleted and declining stocks,Amendment 3 prohibits state water commercial and recreationalfisheries beginning January 1, 2013 unless states/jurisdictionsdevelop and implement sustainable fishery management plans(SFMPs). Amendment 3 defines a sustainable fishery as “acommercial and/or recreational fishery that will not diminishthe potential future stock reproduction and recruitment.” SFMPsmust clearly demonstrate that the state’s or jurisdiction’sAmerican shad fisheries meet this definition of sustainabilitythrough sustainability targets which must be monitored,achieved, and maintained. Maine, Connecticut, Massachusetts,the Delaware River Basin, the Potomac River FisheriesCommission, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia andFlorida all have approved SFMPs for American shad. All statesand jurisdictions are allowed to maintain catch-and-releaserecreational fisheries.

(to page 32)

- 31 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

American shad playedan important cultural roleto Native Americans andearly colonists. Today,many communities stillrecognize theirimportance, holdingfestivals to celebrate thearrival of American shadspawning runs in thespring. These festivalsinclude activities such asfishing for shad, shadbakes or “planking,”along with a variety ofother activities likerunning events, arts andcrafts shows, music, andothers to fostercommunity relations,attract tourists, andbenefit the localeconomy. A listing ofshad and river herring festivals can be found in Amendment 3on the Commission’s website.

Recreational & Commercial FisheriesSince the early 1800s, American shad have supported

major commercial fisheries along the Atlantic coast and wereone of the most valuable food fish of the U.S. Atlantic coastbefore World War II. The estimated East Coast catch in 1896was 50 million pounds, but by the 1950s landings had declinedto approximately 10 million pounds. Fisheries included in-river fisheries targeting river-specific stocks and oceanfisheries targeting mixed stocks of schooling shad. In-riverlandings began decreasing and ocean harvest landings beganincreasing during the 1970s, with coastwide landings ofapproximately two million pounds annually. By 1996, oceanharvest comprised 67% of the coastwide landings. The ocean-intercept fishery was closed in 2005.

Since the last assessment in 2007, coastwide commercialharvests have plummeted to an average of 493 thousandpounds between 2007-2018.

This is one hundred-fold lower than commercial harvestsfrom the late 19th century. As of January 1, 2013, only stateswith a sustainable fishery management plan in place may havedirected commercial fisheries for American shad.

Data on American shad recreational fisheries are verylimited. Historically, large recreational shad fisheries wereknown to occur on the Connecticut, Hudson, Delaware,Susquehanna, Santee-Cooper, Savannah, and St. Johns Rivers.The actual harvest (i.e. catch and removal) may amount toonly a small fraction of total catch as a result of catch-and-release angling practices. Recreational catch-and-releaseanglers are encouraged to use a barbless hook and to keepshad in the water when removing the hook to avoid stress tothe fish.

AMERICAN SHAD (from page 22)

- 32 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

The Commission also continues to collaborate with NewEngland Fishery Management Council (NEFMC) and the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) to addressbycatch of these species in federal Atlantic herring and Atlanticmackerel fisheries. The Councils set the annual catch cap forshad and river herring at 796,005 pounds for 2019. Under anew management action by the MAFMC (Framework 13),the catch cap in the Atlantic mackerel fishery is set to increasefrom the 2019 cap of 196,211 pounds to 284,396 pounds for2020 and 2021.

In addition, Amendment 3 requires states and jurisdictionsto submit a habitat plan regardless of whether any fisherywould remain open. The habitat plans outline current andhistorical spawning and nursery habitat, threats to thosehabitats, and habitat restoration programs in each of the riversystems. The purpose of the habitat plans is to provide a recordof the major threats facing American shad to aid in futuremanagement efforts. The habitat plans provide acomprehensive picture of threats to American shad in eachstate and include collaboration with other state and federalagencies (e.g., state inland fish and wildlife agencies, waterquality agencies, U.S Army Corps of Engineers).

The two largest threats identified in the habitat plans werebarriers to migration and a lack of information on theconsequences of climate change. A key benefit of the habitatplans is that system-specific threats to shad are nowcharacterized along the Atlantic coast. The habitat plans arefiled with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission toensure that shad habitat is considered when hydropower damsare licensed. They are also shared with inland fisheriesdivisions to support habitat monitoring and restoration efforts.The Board approved the majority of habitat plans for all states/jurisdictions in 2014; Florida’s habitat plan was approved in2017 and plans are being developed for the Hudson andMerrimack Rivers. It is anticipated that habitat plans will beupdated every five years.

To learn more about state habitat plans, go to the Shad &River Herring webpage at http://www.asmfc.org/species/shad-river-herring (under Management Section).

For more information, please contact Caitlin Starks, FMPCoordinator, at [email protected].

CATCH & RELEASE (from page 21)

AMERICAN SHAD (from page 31)

However, if the fish has endured a long fight or has spentmore than a minute out of the water, it should be released bydropping it headfirst into the water, giving it a sort of jumpstart.As for tautog and sea bass, these remarkably hardy speciesseem to have little trouble heading for the bottom, even afterbeing kept out of the water for long periods.10. Know When to Quit

Don’t spend too much time trying to remove a hook that ishopelessly lodged in the throat or stomach of a fish. While anattempt should be made to remove the hook with special tools,it’s sometimes best to simply cut the line as close to the hookas possible and let the fish go, rather than stressing it further.It’s a gamble of course, but fish have been known to survivewith deeply embedded hooks.

About the author....Tom Richardson, a RISAA member and Massachusetts native,is passionate for the outdoors, including camping, hiking,boating and fishing. An award-winning writer, he was editorfor Salt Water Sportsman for 15 years prior to becoming editorof the regional boating magazine Offshore in 2004. In 2009,he started the boating-lifestyle BoatingLocal.com, Three yearslater, BoatingLocal became New England Boating, amultimedia brand comprising the website, a glossy magazine,and a TV show, all edited and co-hosted by Richardson. In2016, he launched New England Fishing magazine, websiteand TV show, which he also wrote and hosted.

CONDOLENCESWe are sorry to report the loss of member

Max A. Fahnestockage 89, of Mt. Holly Springs, PA who passedaway in October. Max has been a RISAAmember for the past 13 years, and was also amember of the RISAA affiliate club, thePrinceton Fishing Team. We extend ourdeepest sympathies to his wife Doris and allof his family and friends.

CONDOLENCESWe are sorry to report the loss of member

Alec B. Sinelage 76, of North Kingstown, RI. Alec was aRISAA Member for 16 years, and fished onhis boat Smart Alec. We extend our deepestsympathies to Donna, his wife of 50 years,and his children and friends.

- 33 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

January 27, 2021. Even with a fresh coat of snow, the new 280foot long fishing pier at Rocky Point State park offers stunningviews of the beaty of the outdoors!

- 34 - R.I.S.A.A. / Februry, 2021

Factors to ConsiderIn a busy ocean, finding the

right spot for offshore windfarms isn’t easy. There are a lotof factors to consider besidesthe windiest spots.

• What marine life is in theproposed areas?

• Is the area a productivescallop ground or other

important fishing spot? • Do endangered whales or

sea turtles rely on this area for food or migration? • Will fishermen and other

vessel traffic be able to navigate safely?

Currently, there are more than 16 offshore wind energyareas in various stages of planning and development fromMaine through North Carolina. These projects may installmore than 2,100 turbines from 2021–2029. New Online Tools

To help better understand the impacts offshore winddevelopment will have on Atlantic coast fisheries, wedeveloped some new tools and analyses.to view go to: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/resource/data/socioeconomic-impacts-atlantic-offshore-wind-development

Some of the information you can find for the currentlyproposed offshore wind energy areas includes:

Amount of individual species landed• Landings revenue• Gear types used

• Number of vessels fishing• Number of fishing trips• Communities affected To gather this information, we

combined vessel logbooks, dealerreports, and observer data tocome up with fishing footprints.We then compared them to theproposed offshore wind energyproject areas.

The Bureau of Ocean EnergyManagement is the federalagency responsible for reviewingand permitting offshore energyprojects. It has used this

information in its analysis of the Vineyard Wind Project.Anyone can download the data and generate summary

reports using our query tool. https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/resource/data/socioeconomic-impacts-atlantic-offshore-wind-development

We will further develop these tools based on public inputand ongoing efforts to integrate other data sources. Both thesummary reports and underlying data will be continuouslyupdated as we obtain this additional information.

We are currently working on integrating party/charter vessellogbook data and data from vessels that fish for highly migratoryspecies and for species managed in the South Atlantic.

Questions?Fisheries Data:

Benjamin Galuardi, Regional Office, (978) 281-9187Offshore Wind and Fisheries:

Doug Christel, Regional Office, (978) 281-9141

New Tool Available to Explore Effects of Offshore Wind on FisheriesNew query tool allows anyone with access to information about the effects of proposed offshore wind

projects on regional fisheries and fishing communities

- 35 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

e!

Member

MARK JACOBSdisplays a bluefin tuna that hecaught on August 19 while fishingat the Ranger wreck about ByronOliver’s boat, Free Agent withfellow member, John Stavrakas.

17 yr oldJunior Member

DOMINICTAMBURRINOdisplays a 4 lb tautogthat he caught in earlyOctober on his dad’sboat. He was using a2 oz. Joe Baggs togjig with a green crab.

8 yr oldJunior Member

AIDANMCDONALD

displays double-headerof sea robins that hecaught in August whilefishing with hisgrandfather, memberSteve Ruhnke.

Member

ROBERTROSEMAN

with a nice 33”striper that he caughtfrom the rocks atQuonnie centralbeach on October 6using a popper.

- 36 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

TWO WAYS TO ORDER YOUR PLATE• By Mail (form on next page) or • Online at www.rifishingplate.com)

Note: RI Law requires that a total of 600 license plates must be pre-ordered before production can begin.

1. Can I keep my current RI License plate number?Yes. When you switch to the Saltwater License Plate, your currentnumber is transferred to the new plate, as long as it is 5-digits/lettersor less. Just think of it as ordering a new background design for yourexisting plate.2. What if I currently have a 6-digit plate?Because of the artwork (striped bass), the plate is restrictedto 5 digits/letters or less. You can request to change your 6-digit plate to 5 digits by going to the RI DMV in Cranstonand bring your current plates. You will need to fill out FormTR-1. It will cost $22.50 for this plate change. One you havenew 5-digit plates, you can then sign up for the Saltwaterplate.3. Can I get whatever number I want?We can only issue plates that are currently active. As agroup, we cannot grant anyone different plate numbers. Onlythe RI Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can do that. See #2above.4. I have a commercial plate, can I get a Saltwater plate?Yes, but the same 5-digit or less rule applies.

5. How much is the Saltwater plate? Where does the money go?For a set of two plates, the cost is $41.50 and is distributed this way:The R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation collects the money for theplate with payment made out to “R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation.”$20 of the order will go to the Rhode Island Saltwater AnglersFoundation* and $22.50 will go to the state to make the plate.6. Do I get charged every year for the new plate?Upon your regular registration renewals, there will be a $10 surchargewhich will continue to support the Rhode Island Saltwater AnglersFoundation.7. When can I expect to receive my plate?We’re required to sell a minimum of 600 plates before the plateswill be made. As soon as the 600 orders are received, the funds willbe turned over to the DMV to begin making/issuing the plates. Youwill be notified when this happens. In the meantime, your moneywill be held in an escrow account until such time as the order isplaced.

Many more questions are answered atwww.rifishingplate.com

*In the unlikely event that 600 plates are not sold, you willreceive a full refund.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your purchase of this plate willsupport efforts to improve our marineenvironment, youth fishing programs

and marine conservation.

The one-time Plate Fee is $42.50• $21.50 of each order goes to RI DMV for plate production• $20 of each order goes to the RI Island Saltwater Anglers Foundation, an IRS-approved 501(c)(3)

- 37 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Help support the Environment • Youth Fishing Programs • Fisheries Projects

The one-time Plate Fee is $42.50$22.50 of each order goes to RI DMV for plate production •

$20 of each order goes to the R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation and is an IRS-approved tax-deductable donation for you.

TWO WAYS TO ORDER YOUR PLATEMail this form OR order online at www.rifishingplate.com

Note: RI Law requires that a total of 600 license plates must be pre-ordered before production can begin.

Available for (5-digit PASSENGER plates only* Registration must have 5 digits/letters or less only. If you have 6 digits on your current license plate, you first have togo to a R.I. Division of Motor Vehicles office in person and exchange your plate for a plate with 5 or fewer digits. Only afteryou have a 5-digit plate can you apply to transfer your number to a Saltwater Anglers plate.

Questions: send email to [email protected] or call the RISAA office at 401-826-2121

NOTE: All information is required to process.Please printName: _________________________________________________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________

City: _____________________________________________________ State: ______ Zip: _______________

Daytime Phone/Cell: ___________________ Email: ____________________________________________

PAYMENT TYPE

Card Number: __________________________________________ Exp. Date _________ Security #_______Signature: _______________________________________________________________________________Your signature authorizes the R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation to charge $42.50 to your credit card

Mail this form and a COPY of your CURRENT REGISTRATION and FEE to:R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation, P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI 02816

Current Plate Number (without hypens)

CHECK : make payable to “R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation” CREDIT CARD

( type) AmEx Discover MC VISA

PLATE TYPE ( ) 01 PASSENGER ONLY

ORDER FORM

More info at www.rifishingplate.com

- 38 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Have you ever needed a plumber or auto mechanic and didn’t know who to call? Ever needed to have an item on your boat or home repaired,but had no idea where to call? Rather than calling a stranger or looking in the yellow pages, call another RISAA member!

EVERY MEMBER WHO RUNS A BUSINESS OR PERFORMS A SERVICE is encouraged to sign up. It is totally FREE!Want to get yourself listed? Call the RISAA office (401-826-2121) and leave your name and number. Someone will get back to you.

ABRASIVES _Massasoit Tool Company.........800-648-6050 Member: Jim Jaques (East Greenwich, RI) Stock/distribute 3M coated abrasivesACCOUNTING _Disanto, Priest & Co................401-921-2035 Member: Raymond Marchak (Warwick, RI) www.disantopriest.comMedical-Dental Consultants...401-943-2200 Member: Ryan J. Holzinger, CPA, MSA, MST www.meddentconsultants.com • Cranston, RIRoger H. St. Germain, CPA.....401-334-1848 Member: Roger H. St. Germain, CPA, MST www.stgermaincpa.com • Lincoln, RIADVERTISING/MARKETING _Diversified Marketing & Media.203-220-9192 Member: Michael Epstein (Trumbull, CT) www.diversemm.comANTIQUES _Linde Antiques & Collectibles.617-365-5356 Member: Jay Linde (N. Scituate, RI) Buying/selling, specialize in bookcasesAUTHORS _Eddie Doherty......774-582-1131 Seven Miles After Sundown, Fish the Canal Surf [email protected] or 508-223-6349ATTORNEYS _Robert A. Brazil, Esq ...............802-424-1404 Star Theater Bldv, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 www.rabrazil.com [email protected] M. Clinton, Esq.............215-309-5567 Law Office of Henry M. Clinton, LLC Phila. PA [email protected] R. DeLuca, Esq...........401-274-6644 Gidley, Sarli & Marusak, L.L.P. 1 Turks Head Pl, Ste 900,Providence,RI 02903Paul James Garlasco, Esq........860-350-4409 83 Park Lane Rd, New Milford, CT 06776 [email protected] T. Marasco, Esq.....www.jmarascolaw.com 617 Smith St., Providence 401-421-7500 118 Pt. Judith Rd, Narragansett 401-789-1800Mitchell S. Riffkin, Esq...........401-732-6500 631 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, RI 02886Joseph J. Roszkowski, Esq.......401-769-3447 Justice of the Peace 1625 Diamond Hill Rd, Woonsocket, RI 02895Sammartino & Berg..............401-274-0113 Member: Andrew Berg, Esq. (Providence, RI)AUTOMOTIVE _Moore’s Motor Service......401-821-4050 Member: Clarence Moore (Coventry, RI) 487 Washington St, Coventry, RIRC Auto Repair..........................401-615-9924 Member: Raymond Vincent, Jr. (Coventry, RI) General auto repair. 10% off labor to members.Star Service Auto/Marine.........401-821-9887 Member: Jay Starziano (Coventry, RI) 10% discount parts/labor to RISAA membersBAIT & TACKLE _Block Island Fishworks............401-466-5392 Member: Chris Willi (Block Island, RI) 10% off bait/tackle to RISAA members

Breachway Bait & Tackle..........401-364-6407 Member: David Hess (Charlestown,RI) 166 Charlestown Beach Rd, CharlestownLucky Bait & Tackle..................401-247-2223 Member: Lorraine Danti (Warren, RI) www.luckybait.com discount to RISAA membersPete’s Bait & Tackle..................401-651-6178 Member: Raymond Miclette (Woonsocket, RI) 341 Burnside Ave, Woonsocket, RIQuaker Lane Bait & Tackle.....401-294-9642 Member: Mike Bestwick (North Kingstown, RI) 4019 Quaker Lane, North KingstownQuonnie Bait & Tackle.............401-637-7184 Member: Peter Silva (Charlestown, RI) 5223 Old Post Rd, CharlestownSaltwater Edge...........................401-842-0062 Member: Peter Jenkins (Middletown, RI) 76 Valley Rd, Middletown,RI saltwateredge.comSnug Harbor Marina.................401-783-7766 Member: Al Conti (Wakefield, RI) www.snugharbormarina.comWatch Hill Outfitters...............401-596-7217 Member: Mike Wade (Westerly, RI) 157 Main St. • www.watchhilloutfitters.comBOAT CANVAS _Jackpot Enterprises..................401-596-4089 Member: Cathy Muli (Westerly, RI) zippers, windows, repairsBOATING NEWS _New England Boating...............508-789-6708 Member: Tom Richardson (Mattapoisett, MA) www.newenglandboating.comBOAT SALES _Blue Water Boat Sales..............401-241-7342 Member: Derek Leigh (Warwick, RI) New-used-brokerage. BlueWaterBoatSales.comInland Marine, Inc.....................401-568-0995 Member: Ross Lemieux (Chepachet, RI) Boat sales, service and repairsMcShane Yacht Sales, LLC......617-460-4530 Member: Dave McShane (Warwick, RI) NorthCoast,Crownline, Finseeker, YamahaOcean House Marina................401-364-6040 Member: Rob Lyons (Charlestown, RI) Hydra-Sports, Steiger Craft, Maritime SkiffPetzolds Yacht Sales RI............401-846-8484 Member: Joe Nadeau (Charlestown, RI) Edgewater,SeaFox, Brokerage www.petzolds.comSouth Shore Dry Dock Marine.508-636-9790 Member: Capt. Jason Powell (Westport, MA) www.southshoredrydock.com

Striper Marina...........................401-245-6121 Member: Capt. Alfred Elson (Barrington, RI www.stripermarina.comCHIROPRACTOR _Pruitt Chiropractic...................401-847-8889Member: Dr. Craig Pruitt (Middletown, RI)www.pruittchiropractic.comCOMPUTERS _Computer & Network Services..401-921-4288 Member: Bob LeBlanc (Warwick, RI) 10% off all labor; $25 off complete custom sys.Freedom Technology Solutions.800-979-0040 Member: Kenny Fernandez (Johnston, RI) [email protected] FTSSupport.comCONSTRUCTION _Bryan Couture Construction...401-792-3672 Member: Bryan Couture (Narragansett, RI) Concrete flatwork, patios, driveways, floorsDENTISTRY _Exquisite Smiles.......................508-761-5320 Member: Dr. James Phelan (S. Attleboro, MA) www.exquisite-smile.comForster Orthodontics................401-619-1888 Member: Dr. Matt Forster, DMD forsterorthodontics.comENGINEERING _RP Engineering, Inc.................401-885-7255 Member: Richard Pastore (N. Kingstown, RI) Environmental, structural, civil and marineENGRAVING & ETCHING _Ron Nalbandian........................401-377-4688 Westerly, RI 401-932-3890 Shop/mobile ser. - glass, wood, stone, metalESTATE APPRAISERS/CLEAN-OUTS _Estate Services of RI...................401-789-3646 Member: George Lovesky (Wakefield, RI) www.estateservicesofri.com All over RI.FINANCIAL SERVICES _Ameriprise Financial...............508-497-8931 Garth Fondo (Hopkinton, MA) Certified Financial PlannerTM

Financial Engines.....................401-921-3331 Christian Grundel, CFP (Warwick, RI) email: [email protected] Fargo Advisors...............401-848-9949 James Tollefson, CFP, VP-Investment Officer [email protected] SCHOOLS _American Firearms School 508-695-5869 Member: Matthew Medeiros (N.Attleboro) www.AmericanFirearmsSchool.com RISAA disc.FISHING APPAREL _Linesider Marine Specialties..401-439-5386 Capt. Eric Gustafson (Block Island,RI) Angling apparel. 10% off to RISAA members.FISHING CHARTERS _Big Game Sportfishing.............401-243-7046 Capt. Brian Bacon (Snug Harbor, RI) www.biggamefishingri.comBooked Off Charters................401-741-2580 Capt. Tony Guarini (Wakefield, RI) bookedoffcharters.com

They are allRISAA Members!

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Capt. John Boats...................508-746-2643 Capt. Bob Avila (Plymouth, MA) www.captjohn.com Fishing at Stellwagen BankCapt. Sheriff ’s FishingChartersRI.com Capt. John Sheriff (Warwick, RI) www.FishingChartersRI.com - 401-450-2549Carol J Charters......................401-207-6947 Capt. Paul Johnson, Sr. (Wakefield, RI) www.caroljcharters.comCastafly Chaters.....................401-884-3794 Capt. Ray Stachelek (East Greenwich, RI) www.castaflycharters.comFin Reaper Charters.................401-255-9630 Capt. Bruce Weinstein (Snug Harbor) B.I.stripers tuna-shark-cod finreapercharters.comFishnet Charters......................508-951-9991 Capt. Mel True (Freetown, MA) www.MelTrue.comFish’n Tales Adventures..........401-619-4431 Jeffrey O’Brien (Newport, RI) Party boat. FishnTalesAdventures.comFlippin Out Charters................401-529-2267 Capt. B.J. Silvia (Portsmouth, RI) www.flippinoutcharters.comFrances Fleet..............................401-783-4988 Capt. Frank Blount (Pt. Judith, RI) www.francesfleet.comHere We Go Again Charters.....401-965-0445 Capt. Al Passarelli (Jerusalem, RI) [email protected] On A Feeling Charters..401-788-3638 Capt. Joe Bleczinski (Narragansett, RI) Sailing from Pt. [email protected] Jig Charters......................401-499-9182 Capt. Dave McCormick (Narragansett,RI) www.IrishJigCharters.comIsland Current Fleet..................917-417-7557 Capt. Chris Cullen (Sailing from Snug Harbor) www.islandcurrent.com • $10 RISAA discountLady K Charters....................... 239-565-2949 Capt. Steve Babigian (Snug Harbor, RI) www.ladykcharters.comMaverick Charters..................401-640-0865 Capt. Jack Riley (Snug Harbor, RI) www.maverickchartersltd.comNatural Nine Fishing..............401-402-1963 Capt. Glenn Hanna (Warwick, RI) naturalninefishing.comNo Fluke Charters................401-480-3444 Capt. David Monti (Warwick, RI) www.NoFlukeFishing.comNortheast Boat & Kayak Charters.. Capt. Jerry Sparks (CT/RI) 413-219-8455 www.sparksfish.net • 15% RISAA DiscountOn The Rocks Charters........401-359-3625 Capt. Rene Letourneau (Pawtucket, RI) www.ontherockscharters.comPamela May Charters...........401-742-2383 Capt. Jason Howell (Narragansett, RI) Light tackle/fly www.pamelamaycharters.comPura Vida Charters...............401-601-5499 Capt. Jonathan Lewie (Narragansett, RI) puravidacharters.orgRelentless Charters.............617-462-7885 Capt. David Waldrip (Green Harbor, MA) www.relentlesscharters.comRestless Fishing Charters....401-728-2081 Capt. Rich Templeton Email: [email protected]

Seven B’s V............................401-789-9250 Capt. Russ Benn (Pt. Judith, RI) www.sevenbs.comSkinny Water Charters........401-465-8751 Capt. Jim Barr (Newport, RI) www.skinnywaterchartersri.comSnappa Charters...................401-782-4040 Capt. Charlie Donilon (Wakefield, RI) www.snappacharters.comStuffIt Charters.....................401-764-5141 Capt. Joe Pagano (Scituate, RI) www.stuffitcharters.com - RISAA discountTeezer77 Charters................401-524-7239 Capt. Eric Thomas (Portsmouth, RI) www.teezer77.comTossing Chunks Charters.....508-345-4022 Capt. Jack Tobin (Barrington, RI) www.tossinchunks.comWestport Pt.Fishing Charters.508-375-3464 Capt. James Turner (Westport, MA) WestportPointCharters.comFISHING PRODUCTS _9er’s Lures...........................508-822-9650 Member: Eric Ferreira (Taunton, MA) www.9erslures.comA & S Tackle...........................508-679-8122 Member: Steve Abdow (Swansea, MA) www.astackle.comAndrod Custom Fishing Rods.508-399-7837 Member: Robert Andrade (Seekonk, MA) www.androd.comBill Hurley Lures..................413-584-2421 Member: Bill Hurley (Northampton, MA) www.codandstriperlures.comDC’s Custom Wood Plugs....401-465-5338 Member: Dick Cournoyer (Woonsocket, RI) Email: [email protected] Custom Plugs........401-829-2967 Member:Richard Mandeville (Greenville, RI) Built for the fish! www.customstriperlures.comJackpot Digger Jigs..............401-596-4089 Member: Cathy Muli (Westerly, RI) www.jackpotdiggerjigs.com for stripers & moreLonely Angler Lures............207-348-5605 Member: John Wilson (Deer Isle, ME) Custom wood lures - www.lonelyangler.comMillard Wire Company........401-737-9330 Member: Dan LaCroix (Exeter) Inconel Wireline for trolling“The Real Deal”

Phase II Lures.........................203-226-7252 Member: Dick Fincher (Westport, CT) Hand-carved lures that catch fish. www.phaseiilures.comSurfHog Lure Co....................401-864-6069 Member: Bob Neilson (North Kingstown, RI) www.surfhoglureco.comThomCat Fluke Rigs............401-828-9424 Member: Thom Pelletier (Coventry, RI) [email protected] _Eco-Friendly Custom Furniture......401-439-0564 Member: Steven Sabella (Westerly, RI) www.sabellastudio.comGREEN ENERGY _Viridian Energy....................401-602-6578 Member: Daryll Issa (Portsmouth, RI) www.virdian.com/northeastgreenpowerGRILLING__________________________Gilchrist’s GreatGrates.......401-932-7397 Member: Tim Gilchrist (Charlestown, RI) www.greatgrate.com 15% RISAA discountHARBOR TOURS _Newport Yacht Charters.......857-998-1337 Member: Capt. Charles Jenison (Newport,RI) www.newportyachtcharters.netHOME IMPROVEMENT __Handyman Services.............339-218-9163 Member: Nick Sannicandro (N.Smithfield,RI) Gen labor, yrdwork, small engines, boatworkHome Repair/Remodeling...401-862-5906 Member: Donald Smith (N. Kingstown,RI) No job too small. References providedPro Touch Home Repair.......401-450-6087 Member: Robert Carey (S.Kingstown, RI) Specializing in small home repairsICE CREAM _Frosty Freez...........................401-846-1697 Member: Mark Pachico (Middletown,RI) 496 Main Rd, Middletown -10% RISAA discINSTRUCTION _Boatwise Marine Training..800-698-7373 Member: Capt.Rick Kilborn (S.Hampton,NH) Recreational & Captains license classesJANITORIAL SERVICES _Fleming’s Cleaning Service.800-605-7334 Member: Tim Fleming (Auburn, MA) Complete commercial janitorial servicesJANITORIAL SUPPLIES _Land-Tek Maintainence......508-252-3795 Member: Ken Anderson (Rehoboth, MA) supplies, paper products, cleaning equipmentJEWELRY- CHAINS, WHOLESALE _Garlan Chain Co.................508-316-3881 Member: David Gariepy (N. Attleboro) www.garlanchain.com * Wholesale OnlyJEWELRY - SEA GLASS _A Day At The Beach..............401-487-5302 Member: Michael McHenry (Tiverton, RI) seaglassjewelrybyjane.com 10% RISAA discKAYAKS _Megrew’s Boats, Inc............401-322-1150 Member: Elaine Megrew (Charlestown, RI) Hobie kayaks. www.megrewsboats.comThe Kayak Centre of R.I.....401-295-4400 Member: Jeff Shapiro (Wickford, RI) www.kayakcentre.com RISAA discounts

- 39 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

)m

They are allRISAA Members!

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THE

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ON THESE

PAGES

LAND SURVEYOR _Alfred W. DiOrio, RLS, Inc..401-377-8124 Member: Alfred DiOrio (Ashway, RI) [email protected] Surveyor/land use consultantWaterman Engineering Co...01-438-5775 Member: Richard Lipsitz (E. Providence) watermanengineering.netLASER ENGRAVING__________________Kell-Strom Tool Company....800-851-6851 Member: Robert Kelly (Wethersfield, CT) General machine and laser markingLAWN CARE________________________Green Wizard Landscaping.401-480-1875 Member: Dan Patrick (Johnston, RI) Landscaping, maintenance, trim, fish pondsOcean State Lawn Service....401-732-8182 Member: Paul Karcz (Warwick, RI) Fertilization programs. 10% RISAA discountMACHINING________________________Hartwell Mfg. Co...................401-567-7720 Member: Jerry Finkle (Chepachet, RI) Custom machining small parts, plastics/metalVolpe Tool & Die, Inc............401-580-1063Member: John Volpe (Blackstone, MA)Custom machining of all materialsMARINE ELECTRONICS _Seaport Communications .....401-783-4778 Member: Manuel Medeiros (Narragansett, RI) Sales - Service - InstallationMARINE FABRICATION _Seaward Boatworks...............401-739-5286 Member: Rick Cataldi (Warwick, RI) Aluminum fabrication and canvas workMARINE REPAIR _Conanicut Marine................401-423-7158 Member: Bill Munger (Jamestown, RI) www.conanicutmarina.comMill Creek Marine...............401-294-3700 Member: Jim Shriner (North Kingstown, RI) marina, boat repair, engine sales, storageSnug Harbor Marine Serv Ctr.401-742-1840 Member: Joe Mollica (Exeter,RI) Engine, marine, rod/reel repairs. Full service.MARINE SUPPLIES _The Ship’s Store & Rigging..401-683-0457 Member: Nick DeRosa (Portsmouth, RI) boating supplies, etc. www.shipstoreri.comMARINE SURVEYING _Down River Marine Surveyor..401-364-6400 Member: Roe LaBossiere (Charlestown, RI) Master Marine SurveyorMARINE TOWING SERVICES _Safe/Sea...................................401-295-8711 Member:Capt. Phil LeBlanc (Wickford, RI) www.safesea.comTowBoatUS/New Bedford.......508-990-3997 Member:Capt. Clint Allen (Dartmouth,MA) www.boatus.comMASSAGE THERAPY_________________Island Palms Massage............860-680-0702 Member: William Bradley LMT (Warwick, RI) On call or in-spa. [email protected]/HOME LOANS _Pawtucket Credit Union.......401-541-7003 Member: Brad Sudol (East Greenwich, RI purchase/finance great rates. c:401-465-7345Seacoast Mortgage.................401-487-2322 Member: Paul Kennedy (Narragansett, RI) Email: [email protected]

ORTHODONTICS _Ferry Orthodontics.................401-781-2900 Member: Dr. Mike Ferry (Cranston/Wakefield) www.ferryortho.comOUTBOARD MOTORS _C.L. Marine............................401-732-6764 Member: Gene Steger (Warwick, RI) Mercury sales,service,parts www.clmarineri.comOUTFITTERSAl Gadoury’s 6X Outfitters...406-600-1835 Member: Allan Gadoury (Bozeman, MT) Guided fly fishing trips. www.6xoutfitters.comPHYSICIANS _Anthony V. Rocha, M.D.........401-438-2780 387 Waterman Ave, E. Providence, RI 02914 Family and internal medicinePRINTING _Tiffany Printing Co...............401-828-5514 Member: Christopher Couture (Coventry,RI) www.tiffanyprinting.comREAL ESTATE_____________ __________Keller Williams....................401-785-1700 Member: Julie LeBlanc (Cranston, RI) [email protected] cell: 401-837-9050Lighthouse RealEstate Group.401-935-9612 Member: Will Litvin (Wakefield, RI) [email protected] www.lighthouseri.comRI Real Estate Services...........401-585-4180 Member: Shannon McCaffrey (E.Greenwich,RI) [email protected] Sales RealtorSankey Real Estate..................774-254-1565 Member: Eric Meyer (North Attleboro, MA) www.BaystateHomeSales.comWorld.net Real Estate Group.401-323-2424 Member: Charles Petras (Cumberland, RI) [email protected] or www.TeamPetras.comREAL ESTATE APPRAISERS _Lawrence A. Rainey.................401-439-9083 Certified commercial & residental RISAA discountWhite Appraisal Co., Inc........401-738-9500 Member: S. Keith White, Jr, SRA,SRPA Certified commercial/residential - Warwick,RIRESTAURANTS _Giuseppe’s Pizza and Bistro..401-349-3377 Member: Joseph Saltamachia (Greenville, RI) 19 Smith St, Greenville. Italian food & PizzaSlice Of Heaven...........,..........401-423-9866 Member: Steven Liebhauser (Jamestown,RI) 32 Narragansett Ave, Jamestown, RIROD & REEL REPAIR _Beavertail Rod And Reel........401-215-5062 Member: David Morton (N. Kingstown, RI) www.beavertailrodandreel.comSOLAR CONSULTANT _Newport Solar..........................401-315-2529 Member: Gil Bell (Charlestown, RI) Free solar estimate. [email protected] _Larry’s Licensed Taxidermist..508-883-8190 Member: Larry Hayward (Blackstone, MA)TROPHIES/PLAQUES _Crown Trophy..........................401-231-0070 Member: John Kubaska (Smithfield, RI) www.crowntrophy.comWorld Trophies Co.......401-272-5846 Member: Peter Evangelista (Providence, RI) www.worldtrophies.com

VETERINARIANS _Robert Bolton, D.V.M............401-218-5557 Charlestown, RI Practice for small animalsWASTE & RECYCLING SERVICE _WasteXpress, LLC...................401-464-6400 Member: John Souto (Cranston, RI) res/comm containers www.wastexpressri.comWINES _High Hook Oregon Wines.....413-218-0638 Member: Mark Seymour (Leverett, MA) www.fishhookvineyards.comWOODWORK - SPECIAL _Wood_n_Beauty.......................401-480-8960 Member: Luis Sousa (Cranston, RI) Clocks/nameplates/CNCRouter [email protected]

- 40 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

RHODE ISLANDDEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL

MANAGEMENT

IMPORTANTPHONE

NUMBERS

Boat Registrations222-6647

General Information401-222-6800

ENFORCEMENT401-222-2284

After Hours Hotline401-222-3070

Marine Fisheries Division401-423-1923

Castle Hill, Newport846-3675

Enforcement435-2300

Hazardous Dischanges435-2300

Pt. Judith Station789-0444

U. S. COAST GUARD

RISAA Members:Have your business or

service listed. It’s FREE.Just call the RISAA office

at 401-826-2121

- 41 -

2021 OFFICERS and BOARD OF DIRECTORS

RISAA CONTACTS401-527-5157401-323-0657401-524-9035401-315-2529401-263-3909401-766-8409401-826-2121401-749-5379401-364-0027774-280-0155401-640-3679401-739-1875401-739-1875401-480-3444401-826-2121401-787-5981401-826-2121401-826-2121401-826-2121401-952-8697508-058-6781401-378-5895401-580-1063401-397-4513

Stephen Medeiros...........Capt. Richard Hittinger...Capt. David Monti..........Susan Lema...................Peter O'Biso..................David Michel.................Gary Johnson.................Robert Murray...............Richard Reich................Roger Tellier..................Greg Vespe....................Dawn Filliatreault Wood..

R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Robert Blasi, Chair...............Ralph Orleck, Chair..............Hal Gibson, Chair.................Gilbert Bell, Coordinator........Thomas Wood, Chair............Gisele Golembeski, Chair......Raymond Marchak, CPA......David Pollack, Chair.............Michael Warner, Chair..........Lawrence Hill, Chair.............Kraig Ruth, Chair.................Richard Hittinger, Chair.. Richard Hittinger, Chair.......... David Monti, Chair................... Peter Jenkins, Chair..................Gary Johnson, Chair..............Stephen Medeiros, Chair.......Stephen Medeiros, Editor......Stephen Medeiros, Chair.......David Michel, Chair..............Ron Barnes, Chair...............Robert Murray, Coordinator...John Volpe, Chair..................Edward Kearney, Chair.........

[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@risaa.org [email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@risaa.org.......

401-826-2121401-739-1875401-480-3444401-932-3030401-783-2364401-952-8697401-787-5981401-378-5895401-742-2020401-398-2670401-662-5573401-263-3919

[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]@risaa.org...........

RISAA Office: (401) 826-2121 • FAX: (401) 826-3546Mail Address: P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI 02816

WWW.RISAA.ORGNew England Saltwater Fishing Show: www.nesaltwatershow.com

President..................1st Vice President.....2nd Vice President....Secretary.................Treasurer.................Sergeant-At-Arms....Board Member.........Board Member.........Board Member.........Board Member.........Board Member.........Board Member.........

By-Laws Committee..................Charities Committee..................Charter Trips Committee............Dealer Discount Program...........Education Committee.................Elections Committee..................Financial Review Committee......Fly Fishing Committee...............Foundation Committee..............Fund-Raising Committee...........Kayak Committee.....................Legislative Committee................

Artificial Reefs Subcommittee.....Menhaden Subcommittee............Public Access Subcommittee.......

Merchandise Committee............Political Action Committee.........Newsletter................................Saltwater Fishing Show..............Scholarship Committee..............Surfcasters Committee..............Tag & Release Program............Tournaments Committee............Welcome Committee..................

Legal Counsel to Board of Directors.....Mitchell S. Riffkin, Esq

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORStephen [email protected]

SCUPPorgy

STRIPEDBASS

HADDOCK

POLLOCK

- 42 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

See a violation? Report it!

Connecticut9” min • 25 fish

no closed seasonAMERICAN

EEL

RIDEM ENFORCEMENT DIVISION401-222-3070 (24 hrs)

MADEP ENFORCEMENT DIVISION800-632-8075

CTDEP CONSERVATION POLICE860-424-3333

RECREATIONAL SALTWATER FISHING REGULATIONSMassachusetts

South of Cape Cod18" min • no limitno closed season

no min size • no limitno closed season

16" minOpen seasons:

Apr 1 - May 31 • 3 fishJun 1-Jul 31 • 1 fish

Aug 1 - Oct 14 • 3 fishOct 15 - Dec 31 • 5 fish

North of Cape Cod12" min • 8 fish

no closed season

Rhode Island

*All of Narragansett Bay,Potter Pond, Point JudithPond and the Harbor ofRefuge is closed to winterflounder fishing

16" minApr 1 to May 31 • 3 fishJun 1 to Jul 31 • closedAug 1 to Oct 14 • 3 fish

Oct 15 to Dec 31 • 5 fishmax 10 fish per boat

12" min • 2 fishMarch 1 to Dec 31

9” min • 25 fishno closed season


BLACK SEABASS

15” min5 fish

May 19 - Dec 31

no min size • 3 fishno closed season

(5 fish party/charter)BLUEFISH

no min size • 3 fish(incl snappers)

no closed season


(5 fish party/charter)

COD

19" min • no limitno closed season

9" min • 30 fishno closed season

1 fish • 28"- <35" slotno closed season

1 fish • 28"- <35" slotno closed season

TAUTOG

WEAKFISHSqueteague

16" minOpen seasons:

Apr 1 - Apr 30 • 2 fishMay/June • closed

Jul 1 - Aug 31 • 2 fishOct 10 - Nov 28 • 3 fish




WINTERFLOUNDER 12" min • 2 fish

April 1 to Dec 31 South of Cape Cod12" min • 2 fish

March 1 - Dec 31


*See Special Shore below


(charter rules differ)8" certain shore sites


21 " min • 10 fishno closed season

19" min • 4 fishMay 4 - Sept 30


May 1 - Dec 3119" min • 6 fish

**See Special Shore below


9" min • 30 fish*April 13 to Dec 31

*max 150 fish per boat(charter rules differ)

17" min • 5 fishMay 23 - Oct 9

15” min5 fish

May 18 - Sept 8

South & east of Cape Cod21" min • 10 fish

no closed season*North of Cape see MADMF regs

17" certain shore sites

SUMMERFLOUNDER

Fluke

New York

16" minApr 1-Apr 30 • 2 fish

L.I. Sound FallOct 11-Dec 9 • 3 fish

NY Bight FallOct 15-Dec 22 • 4 fish



1 fish • 28"- <35" slotApril 15 - Dec 15

*special regs HudsonRiver, north of GW Bridge


19" min • 4 fishMay 4 - Sept 30

15” minJun 23-Aug 31 • 3 fishSep 1 - Dec 31 • 7 fish





(charter rules differ)

12" min • 2 fishApril 1 to May 30

# Striped Bass: All states. Mandatory use of circle hooks when fishing with bait.

RI Special Shore Angling Sites (fluke and scup): India Point Park, Providence; Conimicut Park, Warwick; Rocky Point, Warwick;Stone Bridge, Tiverton; East and West Walls (Harbor of Refuge), Narragansett; Fort Wetherill, Jamestown; and Fort Adams, Newport*Scup at Special Shore Angling Sites: Min. size 8". Total possession 30 fish/day.**Summer Flounder at Special Shore Angling Sites: Min. size 17" (2 fish only). Total possession 6 fish: 2 may be 17", rest must be 19" and larger

15” minJun 24 - Aug 31 - 3 fishSep 1 - Dec 31 - 7 fish

1 fish • 28"- <35" slotno closed season34" must have right

pectoral fin removed# Special note

below

TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP

Junior Member: Free (Up to 17 years. Requires parent membership or a RISAA sponsor)

CHECK TYPE

R.I.S.A.A.P.O. Box 1465Coventry, RI 02816

Mail to:

RISAA Sponsor (if parent not a member): __________________________________ Relationship: ____________

Address: _____________________________________ City: _________________________ State: ____ Zip:_________

Occupation: _____________________________ Employed At: ________________________________________

PRINT

Regular Adult: $50/year

The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association is a nonprofit Association established to provide a forum for saltwater anglers; to provide education tomembers concerning fishing techniques and overall enjoyment of fishing; to foster sportsmanship; to support marine conservation and the soundmanagement of fisheries resources; and provide a unified voice to preserve and protect the rights, traditions and the future of recreational fishing.

Meetings are held on the last Monday of each month at the West Warwick Elks in West Warwick, RI at 7:00pm. (attendance not required). Membership benefits include monthly seminars • fishing tournaments •• fishing trips for members only • monthly news magazine • discounts at tackle shops and marine dealers •• social events • college scholarships • adds your voice to fisheries management and conservation issues.

Payment must accompany application. Enclosed is my check for $__________ (payable to R.I.S.A.A.) Charge to my credit card: (check) AmEx* Discover MasterCard Visa Amount Authorized: $_____________

Exp. date (mo/yr): _________ CVV # ________ (3-digit number on back of card) *AmEx is 4 nos on frontName on card (print): ___________________________________ Card Number: ___________________________________

Multiple Years (save $5/year): ___$90 (2 yrs), ___ $135 (3 yrs), ___ $180 (4 yrs), ___$225 (5 yrs)

Prefer to fish from ( check all that apply):

Own Boat: Length:___ ft Maker/Type:_____________ Boat Name:_______________ Docked at:__________ Rocks & Piers Charter Boats Party Boats Fly Fishing Surfcasting Other _________________

LastMiddle InitialFirstName: __________________________________________________ Age: _____ Spouse Name: _________________

Home Phone: _____________ Cell Phone: ____________ E-mail:______________________Put me on RISAA e-mail list:

yes no thanks

Children (up to 17 yrs):___________________________________________You can register them as Junior Members (free)

no thanks yes (complete below)

INFORMATION

Friend Tackle Shop Facebook News article RISAA Newsletter Fishing Show Web site Saw Advertisement at - Internet Magazine Newspaper TV

How did you hear about RISAA?

Student (college/trade school): $25/year (max 6 yrs) -requires copy of current student ID card Life Member: $500 (one time, single payment)

Junior's Name: (print)_______________________________________ Age:_____ Date of Birth: ____________/ /Junior's Name: (print)_______________________________________ Age:_____ Date of Birth: ____________/ /

- 43 - R.I.S.A.A. / February, 2021

Senior (Age 65+): $25/year (requires date of birth: ____/____) prefer ___$50 (2 yrs) ___$75 (3 yrs)

P.O. Box 1465Coventry, RI 02816

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Nonprofit OrganizationU.S. Postage Paid

Coventry, RIPermit No. 247

FEBRUARY, 2021

The Voice of Southern New England Fishermen

FEBRUARY, 2021 - • Issue 265 401-826-2121 ...

Documents

Transcript of FEBRUARY, 2021 - • Issue 265 401-826-2121 ...