Question on handling BSB

[Jimmyz123]

Originally Posted by bubblehide

Jimmy, I don't see a one fish limit, as I think that could decimate the population in no time at all; But I could see a one fish per year limit, and I'd welcome it.

They would have to sell a report card thing or something like that, and I could see that happening.

[bubblehide]

Originally Posted by Jimmyz123

They would have to cell a report card thing or something like that, and I could see that happening.

I think you read my mind.

[dorado50]

Lets see, there are at least 180,00 (calif)fishing licenses issued each year??? One BSB taken per angler per year.... yea that math looks good to me. Just release the fish and make sure it swims away healthy.

[Iceman]

Good to see some clarification on this..........I agree with it 100% Why risk injuring a fish so you can have a photo of it on your lap. The sportboat guys that boat them for pix drive me crazy.

[dsafety]

Originally Posted by dorado50

Lets see, there are at least 180,00 (Calif)fishing licenses issued each year??? One BSB taken per angler per year.... yea that math looks good to me. Just release the fish and make sure it swims away healthy.

I would be fine with what Dorado suggests since the BSB is such a majestic fish that takes many years to grow to full size. On the other hand, some say that the BSB population has recovered to the point where they have almost achieved "pest" status in some locations.

I am far from an expert on this subject but my thinking is that if it is ever determined that the BSB population can withstand some fishing pressure, maybe the best way to approach the management would be to have a lottery for a special permit which would allow some lucky fishers to catch and keep one fish of a particular size or larger. Kind of like what they do with hunting permits for some formally endangered animals.

The bigger problem in my view is that most people who catch a big BSB from deep water have no idea how to safely release the fish. I have read the recommended procedures but have never had to practice the technique. The only BSB I ever caught was a 10 pounder who quickly swam away after I removed the hook. I am hopeful that if I ever hook a big one, someone with a little experience is in the neighborhood.

Bob

[T Bone]

There was a video of this Jack-wagon catching a huge BSB on balboa pier on dragging it on the beach to die.I heard he went to court because someone called we-tip but I never heard what happened.If anyone could post that video or follow up that would be cool.

[roby]

Is this the video?

http://video.foxnews.com/v/4000167/b...n-in-hot-water

The dude's website:

http://savetheseabass.com/

From what I have read, it seems like the guy was trying to keep the fish and was playing dumb about not knowing the rules, so he would not get in trouble....

[yaknewb]

Yea i saw that vid it was sad i cant believe no one stoped him.

[Jimmyz123]

Originally Posted by roby

Is this the video?

http://video.foxnews.com/v/4000167/b...n-in-hot-water

The dude's website:

http://savetheseabass.com/

From what I have read, it seems like the guy was trying to keep the fish and was playing dumb about not knowing the rules, so he would not get in trouble....

I've heard it said many times in court that not knowing the laws is not an excuse. If you have a rod and reel in your hands you better know the regs, or have a way of knowing them, Regs book, or don't go fishing. I carry my regs book with me all the time in the event I am questioned, need to know what I just caught and it's regs, or and it gives me peace of mind. I hope this guy was fined.