It is expected that catch share system will enable fishermen to net a profit while restoring depletes species. The federal government will push for the expansion of a controversial concept that gives commercial fishermen a guaranteed share of the overall catch as a tool for restoring depleted stocks in the Gulf of Mexico and other fisheries.
According to NOAA the approach, known as “catch shares,” is a proven strategy that can make fishing safer and more profitable while rebuilding fish populations. It says that catch shares arises from concerns that traditional methods, including seasonal limits and buyouts of fishing boats, have brought only marginal recovery of fish stocks. NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco said that the current tools we have aren’t getting the job done so they are expanding the toolbox.
New rule would allow commercial fishermen harvest their share of the catch when they can command higher prices, rather than competing in derby-style openings that often lead to market gluts and wasted fish. Critics, including Gov. Rick Perry, have said the shares system turns fishing into a property right that gives commercial interests an edge over recreational anglers. He told that a national catch-shares policy could have a negative effect on their economies because recreational fishing generates $24 billion a year for the region.
The federal government typically defers decisions about regulating commercial catches to regional fishery councils. The eight councils nationwide, with voting members nominated by state governors and appointed by the U.S. commerce secretary, oversee fisheries in federal waters. Robert Hayes, general counsel of the Coastal Conservation Association, a national sport fishing group based in Houston, said he does not expect the new federal policy to bring about an expansion of catch shares.
