Risaa Board Opposes Opening of Block Island

Home , Block Island Sound

www.RISAA.org NOVEMBER, 2018 • Issue 238 401-826-2121 Representing Over 7,500 Recreational Anglers RISAA BOARD OPPOSES OPENING OF BLOCK ISLAND EEZ Opening this area will put much pressure on large female stripers that are necessary to sustain a healthy fishery At its October 23 The Board also meeting, the Board of required that this letter Directors of the Rhode strongly request additional Island Saltwater Anglers enforcement of existing Association regulations to stop anglers unanimously voted to on boats that are currently oppose the NOAA fishing in the EEZ illegally. proposal to open the The EEZ area in the Block Island Transit southwest off Block Island, Zone, part of the federal commonly known as the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to recreational fishing and Southwest Ledge, is known to be stacked every year by large directed President Stephen Medeiros go send a letter stating striped bass. Although illegal to fish there, this area draws boats this position to NOAA for its "Request for Public Comment." from Rhode Island, Connecticut and New York seeking those large, female stripers. (to page 26)

INSIDE THIS ISSUE • Research need before EEZ is opened to striped bass fishing (page 3)

• RISAA 21st Annual Banquet announced (page 6)

• Local Angler arrested for illegal tautog catch; obstruction (page 9)

• RISA Anglers Foundation support results in fish ladder completion (page 11)

• Striped Bass Management: Will we ever learn? (page 16)

• Winter Flounder: Special Profile (page 8) AND MUCH MORE! R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 A Poacher’s Greed! As I sat to write this column, I was Many other members though are shore informed by DEM of another fishing anglers who don’t get that opportunity. Nov 5 • 6:30 PM Fly Fishing Committe poacher arrest. While the news of this Many members have a boat, but are annual meeting arrest isn’t public yet, it is a name most new to this, so going on one of these of us know, a repeat offender. My plan trips is a good way to learn. Still others Nov 7 • 6:00 PM ASMFC Public Hearing to write a column with several good just enjoy spending a few hours on the on Draft Addendum for Summer news information goes to the back of water with fellow RISAA members. Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass. URI my mind as anger takes over. These trips always sell out, even with Bay Campus, S. Ferry Rd, Narragansett I can’t understand the mentality of 50 members per trip. Nov 8 • 6:30 PM Tournaments anyone who would totally ignore the This is why the RISAA Board Committee annual meeting fisheries laws for his/her own personal approves sponsoring party boat trips. greed. I’m not talking about someone We usually charge members a Nov 11 • 6:30 PM Surfcasters who might keep a fluke that is 1/2” nominal $25 fee for these trips, Committee annual meeting undersize after fishing all day with no although the actual cost is more than keepers to show for it. That’s still wrong, double that, but we do it so that no Nov 19 • 6:30 PM Kayak Committee but not an egregious offense. member is prohibited from taking part Annual Meeting, Gregg’s, N. Kingstown But someone who keeps many fish because he/she might not be able to Nov 20 • 6:30 Board of Directors that are undersize and/or over the bag afford it. limit, and does it repeatedly all year long, After the tog trip cancelled I sent Nov 26 • 7:00 PM RISAA Monthly is the real criminal. an email to other Board members Seminar How can a person have the need for suggesting next year we might want to so many illegal fish? Are those fish expand and look into adding a cod trip. Dec 11 • 6:30 Board of Directors being illegally sold? This is pure greed! “I am in favor of adding a trip And while all the rest of us have to because giving members opportunities Dec 12 • 6:30 PM Kayak Committee take cuts in our bag limits every year, to fish is one of the primary reasons Annual Meeting, Gregg’s, N. Kingstown it’s those poachers who contribute to for RISAA,” said Board member Bob Dec 17 • 7:00 PM RISAA Annual Meeting the problem. They are stealing from Murray. every one of us! The Board usually discusses and Jan 26 • 7:00 PM RISAA 21st Annual approves these trips at their January Banquet, Quonset O Club, N. Kingstown RISAA-SPONSORED FISHING meeting once they get the 2018 financial TRIPS report and will know the budget for Jan 28 • 7:00 PM RISAA Monthly Last month, we had 50 disappointed 2019. Hopefully we’ll again sponsor Seminar members when our annual “Party Boat the squid, Adult/Junior, fluke, tautog Tautog Fishing Trip” had to be and cod trips next year. Feb 25 • 7:00 PM RISAA Monthly cancelled when the region was hit with Seminar a nor’easter on October 27. It was good THE ROCKY POINT PIER March 22-24, 2019 New England move to cancel since that morning Good news for public access. Saltwter Fishing Show ended up with 14-17 foot seas at Point During a conversation with RIDEM Judith. Not good for tautog fishing! Director Janet Coit, she told me that Mar 25 • 7:00 PM RISAA Monthly Unfortunately there was no construction for the new fishing pier Seminar opportunity to reschedule the trip at Rocky Point is scheduled to get because Frances Fleet was scheduled started. to pull the boat that week. There had been a one year delay, The Official Newsletter of the But all fishermen know the but the project was going out to bid Rhode Island disappointment of weather forcing last month (October) and construction Saltwater Anglers Association cancelled fishing plans. We’ll try again will start in the spring. Published Monthly next year. She expressed the desire for RISAA Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers While many RISAA members have to be involved as the project moves Association, Inc. boats - or friends with boats - they have forward. P.O. Box 1465 the opportunity to fish in deeper water. For sure we will! Coventry, RI 02816 - 2 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 The RISAA Legislative Committee’s mission is to provide, in partnership with the Affiliated Clubs, a forum for improving the knowledge and understanding of fishery-related and government issues that affect recreational anglers. An informed membership encourages involvement and advocacy. 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. Research needed before EEZ opens for striped bass

It is illegal to fish for striped bass outside the three-mile believe if the MA EEZ were to open for striped bass fishing limit in federal waters in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) many large fish with spawning potential would be killed, not n along our coastal shores including outside the three-mile limit make it to spawn again and would not make it to state waters to around Block Island. be caught by anglers closer to shore. The studies also tracked However, NOAA Fisheries is exploring opening up the EEZ striped bass migration movement south to spawn and then north around Block Island and has introduced an Advanced Notice again. of Proposed Rule Making (ANPRM) for public comment to No such studies have been done in the Block Island EEZ, allow striped bass fishing in the Block Island Transit Zone. The so in my opinion, we need to press for this. Block Island, RI is rule was posted in the Federal Register with a written comment not Stellwagen Bank, MA and migration patterns are different, period that ends November 19, 2018. Anglers need to comment however, a study should be done in Rhode Island modeled after on this important rule. the Massachusetts study that gives us some idea of what impact NOAA is considering opening up the EEZ (3-200 miles from opening the EEZ will have on Spawning Stock Biomass. shore) because charter and party boats from NY have put We do not know if opening the EEZ would kill a lot of large pressure on government through New York Rep. Lee Zeldin (R) fish with spawning potential who might not live to spawn again who has proposed legislation over the years to open the EEZ at or travel to Rhode Island state waters. Block Island to striped bass fishing. The initiative is being The fish in the water belong to all the people in Rhode considered without research on what impact opening up these Island and all the people in the United States of America. Not 150 square miles will have on large striped bass (many in the 30, just a few NY, NJ, CT or RI boats fishing in the EEZ illegally 40 and 50 pound range with great spawning potential) that are today or legally tomorrow if the rule is approved. We need to caught there and the fishery in general. enforce the law now, arrest and prosecute those that break the Many have said it is too hard to do research on these fish. law. However, Massachusetts found a way to do striped bass How to comment research in federal and state waters along their coast. Two Submit comments electronically to NOAA at studies explored striped bass movement from the EEZ off www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=NOAA-NMFS-2018- Massachusetts (at Stellwagen Bank) to Massachusetts State 0106 , click the “Comment Now!” icon, complete the required Waters. fields, and enter or attach your comments. Comments can also Massachusetts Striper Migration Studies be sent by fax to 301.713.1193, or mail comments mailed to Kelly Both striped bass studies were done by Dr. Jeff Kneebone Denit, Division Chief, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, 1315 East- of UMass Dartmouth, the New England Aquarium and the West Highway, SSMC3, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. The first study, ‘Movement of Striped Bass between the EEZ and MA State Judge denies lawsuit against ocean monuments Waters’ is at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02755947.2014.892550; In October, 2018 a federal judge denied a lawsuit from a and the second study, ‘Movement Patterns and Stock group of commercial fishing associations that challenged the Compositions of Adult Striped Bass Tagged in MA Coastal creation of the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine Waters’, can be found at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/ National Monument formed by President Barrack Obama in 2016. 00028487.2014.889752 . U.S. District Judge James Boasberg granted the Trump As the studies note… within 30 days 55% of the fish tagged administration’s motion to dismiss the suit. His ruling said the in federal waters moved into state of Massachusetts waters. In groups failed to adequately explain why the monument is too one year 95% of the fish were in state waters and in two years large. 96% of the striped bass tagged in federal waters moved to state Boasberg ruled, “just as President Roosevelt had the waters. authority to establish the Grand Canyon National Monument in The studies indicated that MA striped bass move from the 1908 ... so President Obama could establish the Canyons and EEZ to state waters so claims from some fishermen that they Seamounts Monument in 2016.” were missing out on fish was not true. The studies left one to (to page 39)

- 3 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 The purpose of the Welcome Committee is to contact new The recipe comes from Amy at theblondcook.com members, welcome them to the Association and answer any questions they may have about RISAA and its activities. who’s husband is a recreational fisherman and brings home tautog for dinner. Welcome new members who joined last month! Herb Alden Blackman Tucker Jansen Pawtucket, RI Cohassett, MA Baked

Charles Blackman Lily Johnson Pawtucket, RI Windsor, CT Tautog

Dustin Jansen Paul Smith INGREDIENTS Cohassett, MA Warwick, RI • 4tautog filets • 2 tsp parsley, fresh Hayes Jansen Paul Smith Jr • 1 tbsp basil, fresh • 1 tbsp lemon juice Cohassett, MA Warwick, RI • 1 tsp chipped cilantro, fresh • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning • 1 tsp dill weed, fresh • 1 pepper, fresh cracked Flynn Jansen Zachary Smith • 1 tsp garlic, fresh • 1 stick butter Cohasset, MA Warwick, RI • 1/4 cup green onions

DIRECTIONS • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add remaining herb butter ingredients and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low while preparing fish. • Place filets in a baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Pour herb butter over fish filets. Sprinkle with Old Bay Seasoning and pepper. Top with sliced green onions. • Bake (uncovered) for 10-15 minutes, or until fish are cooked and flaky.

Got a recipe to share or request for a certain recipe? Contact Sandie at [email protected] - 4 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 October Kayak Fishing Outing and Picnic by JEFF HALL THE FISHING stripers and other species of fish. On October 6, the RISAA Kayak Committee held a special I, and a few other people from our group, stayed inside the fishing outing at Camp Cronin in Narrgansett, followed by a refuge area and fished along the breach wall at the opposite cookout at Scarborough beach. If you missed this outing, you end. First, we trolled up and down past the green tower towards missed out on a good time - both on and off the water. the back wall. From there, Ray and Kirk worked back and forth In attendance for the fishing outing was George (Ray) along the back wall. Eventually, Ray, Kirk, and Dave Krick Clark, Dave Krick, Kirk Kamien, Adam Perrot, Don Goodroe, fished along the back wall and wandered around the corner of and myself (Jeff Hall). the West wall break. Not sure where Don Goodroe and Adam Perrot headed out to, but I’m guessing that they went out the East wall break in search of blues and albies. I had no luck in catching fish, but I heard from Ray Clark that he caught a keeper size black seabass. Don Goodroe said he caught several schoolie-sized stripers, as did Kirk & Adam as well. THE PICNIC At around 10:00 AM, I headed in so Mona Rodrigues and I could get a head start on setting up the picnic, which was a short two miles away at Scarborough South State Beach. We walked down the beach area to load the kayaks in the water, and we all launched between 8:00 - 8:30 AM under overcast skies, cool air, and so far, no rain. At one point, it cleared briefly, but clouded right back up again. There was also a breeze of 8 knots blowing as well, which could’ve attributed to the whitecaps beyond the breakwall. Most of us have beach wheels, but we assisted those who didn’t. Dave Krick was one member without wheels for his kayak, so I let him use my beach wheels so he could get to the beach without struggling through the deep sand. He noticed the difference immediately! Being that it was Mr. Krick’s first time in saltwater, I launched with him and got him past the green tower on the other side of the refuge wall. This outing has been announced as “advanced/ expert” level due to the extreme tidal currents outside the breach wall. I told him that we were in approximately 35 - 40 feet deep We arrived at 11:00 AM, and began putting up our 10 x 15 of water, and flounder/fluke are found in the channel areas of tent, a 3 x 6 table, 2 wheeled coolers with soda, water and beer, the breach wall breaks, while along the inner walls you may find and a 3 x 8 table. (to page 33) - 5 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 2019 Banquet Announced Nominations Closed Our 21st Anniversary Banquet has been set! The nominations for the elections of 2019 Officers and Board Members has closed as of October 15, 2019. As of that date, no Saturday, January 26, 2019 members came forwarded seeking election, so the proposed slate Quonset ‘O’ Club,North Kingstown, RI. by the Board of Directors shall become elected at the Annual The tickets will again be only for $25 per person. Meeting On December 17, 2018 as follows: We have held it at this price since 2012, even though the cost has actually gone up every year and actually costs more. President... Stephen J. Medeiros But the club makes up the difference on the tickets so it stays 1st Vice President... Richard C. Hittinger affordable for our members. 2nd Vice President... David P. Monti We will start at 6:00 PM when cheese & crackers and Secretary... Roger O. Tellier assorted vegetables hors d'oeuvres will be available with drinks Treasurer... Peter R. O'Biso "on you own.” Sergeant-At-Arms... David A. Michel The banquet will begin at 7:00 pm and the dinner we have planned is an “Italian Dinner" that will include chicken escarole Board Member... Gary W. Johnson soup, individual style penne pasta with house tomato sauce, Board Member... Douglas A. MacPherson boneless stuffed chicken breast, garlic roasted redskin totatoes, sauteed green beans, crusty Italian bread, and desert will be Board Member... Robert S. Murray caramel cookie dough ice cream. Coffee and tea is included. Board Member... Diane T. Valerien Tickets will be sold at the November and December monthly Board Member... Greg F. Vespe seminar/meetings. Board Member... Dawn E. Filliatreault Wood Hope to see you all there! If any member has any questions, I can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 401-766-8409.

Readers of this blog are undoubtedly familiar with Carlos someone “within a half-inch of his life” for supporting various Rafael, the so-called “Codfather” of New Bedford, conservation measures on a Facebook page apparently turn Massachusetts, who ran an extensive criminal enterprise built into meek little church mice when faced with the possibility of a around illegal groundfish harvest. real physical confrontation with a hardcase poacher on the decks And a lot of the folks in the striped bass community were of their own boats.) seeing red when, a decade or so ago, state and federal law On the other hand, many of the party boat captains present enforcement officers broke up a multi-million-dollar striped bass at the meeting were completely amenable to a regulation requiring poaching operation down in Chesapeake Bay. each angler’s cooler to be tagged with a name and address, so Those big poaching busts capture most of the headlines. that law enforcement could identify who owned coolers left They also serve to obscure the smaller, but far more common, behind with too many fish inside. However, there was no incidents of illegal harvest that are going on all of the time, with discussion of how anyone could, as a practical matter, verify much of that poaching committed that the cooler tags contained by recreational fishermen. accurate information, or of who Sometimes, when anglers get ...some party boat patrons—and, perhaps, this would bear the penalty should law too far out of line, such poaching is particularly true of the patrons who poach— enforcement board a boat and find does make the news. That was the are unpleasant people, who wouldn’t shy away untagged coolers, filled with illegal case here on Long Island a little from violence if told to open their coolers fish, abandoned on board. over a year ago, when state and against their will. And then there’s the problem federal law enforcement boarded of the vessel trip reports. two different Montauk party boats Federal regulations require within just a few weeks of each other, and found that both had party and charter boats that fish for a number of species, large quantities of illegal black sea bass on board. including black sea bass, scup, bluefish and summer flounder, As it turns out, such poaching isn’t limited to Montauk, to file such vessel trip reports, which must include, among much and it isn’t just a sometime thing. Speaking at the March 2018 other information, “hail weight in pounds (or count of individual meeting of New York’s Marine Resources Advisory Council, fish, if a party or charter vessel), by species, of all Lt. Sean Reilly, a law enforcement officer for the state’s species…landed or discarded” during the course of each trip. Department of Environmental Conservation, noted that For-hire vessels fishing for species managed by the Mid- poaching by party boat patrons is a problem all along the Long Atlantic Fishery Management Council must completely fill out Island coast. The Marine Resources Advisory Council’s Bulletin their vessel trip reports before such vessel returns to the dock, for that month summarized his comments by saying and file them electronically. “Officer Reilly of the DEC Law Enforcement stated that Failing to timely fill out an accurate trip report places a vessel unclaimed coolers are a large part of the problem. Once operator in legal jeopardy, and it’s hard to think of a way that Enforcement agents are spotted, coolers are abandoned. They such an operator could fill out an accurate trip report without can contain as many as 130 fish. Another large problem is that knowing what was in his passengers’ coolers—which is why the vessel trip report doesn’t always match up to the number of DEC enforcement folks are running into multiple problems when fish caught.” boarding certain boats. But how do you make those problems go away? Thus, it seems that, one way or another, crews might have One suggestion is to make the boat’s captain legally to start looking under the lids of everyone’s coolers if they responsible for all fish caught by his or her passengers. But want to stay on the right side of the law. that’s not a solution that’s very popular with the party boat The vessel owners and operators aren’t going to like that fleet, even though it is one that is enforced on other parts of the fact, but it seems that, at some point in the future, they might coast. not have much choice, as the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management The most serious objection to holding the captains Council appears serious about finding effective ways to reduce responsible is the fact that some party boat patrons—and, poaching in the party boat fleet. perhaps, this is particularly true of the patrons who poach— On November 13 and 14, the Council will be holding a Law are unpleasant people, who wouldn’t shy away from violence if Enforcement/For-Hire Workshop in Philadelphia, where told to open their coolers against their will. “Operator versus angler (client) responsibility for fisheries Some crewmembers at the Advisory Council meeting related violations that occur on for-hire vessels and law enforcement stories of being threatened by anglers who were asked to display options for enforcing these” will be one of two topics on the their catch. (Although there is a some irony to such stories, agenda. (to page 32) given that the Internet tough guys who threaten to beat - 7 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 Species Profile Winter Flounder While havest has declined, assessments show little improvement in biomass

Introduction females release demersal (negatively or neutrally buoyant) Stock assessments for the Southern New England/Mid- adhesive eggs whose properties facilitate retention within Atlantic (SNE/MA) and Gulf of Maine (GOM) winter flounder spawning grounds. stocks were conducted by the Northeast Fisheries Science Many factors influence larval growth and survival, including Center as a part of a series of temperature, salinity, dissolved operational assessments which oxygen, and food availability. reviewed 19 Northeast groundfish Nursery habitat for larvae and stocks. Results of the assessments juveniles is typically littoral (along show the SNE/MA stock continues the shore) and sublittoral saltwater to be overfished, with low biomass coves, coastal salt ponds, estuaries, since the 1990s. The biomass status and protected embayments; of the GOM stock could not be although larvae and juveniles have determined due to model limitations, also been found in open ocean areas Winter Flounder however, overfishing is not such as Georges Bank and Nantucket Pseudopleuronectes americanus occurring. shoals. Larvae are predominantly Common Names: blackback, lemon sole flat While management has found in the upper reaches of fish, mud dab, black flounder responded to previous, yet similar, estuaries in early spring, moving into assessment results with trip limits the lower estuary later in the season. Family: Pleuronectidae are also known as and size restrictions in state waters, Adult growth rates vary between righteye flounders because most species lie as well as quotas in federal waters, stock units. Fish from the offshore on the sea bottom on their left sides, with trends in these winter flounder Georges Bank stock typically grow both eyes on their right sides. Winter stocks do not show clear responses faster and larger than fish from the flounder is one of 60 species in this family. to declines in fishing mortality. inshore areas. Maximum age appears to decrease from north to south over Interest facts: Life History the winter flounder’s range as well. • Generally, the darkest of all Gulf of Maine Estuarine habitat plays an Winter flounder is an estuarine flat fishes flatfish found in almost all shoal essential role in all stages of winter • Winter flounder grow largest in Georges flounder life history. Specifically, it water habitats along the Northwest Bank and smallest in the Gulf of Maine Atlantic coast. The geographic provides spawning and foraging • High site fidelity (attachment to specific areas for adults, and nursery habitat distribution ranges from nearshore sites) creates potential for local extinction habitats to offshore fishing banks. and food sources for juveniles. • Winter flounder are born with an eye on Young-of-the-year (YOY) winter The name ‘winter’ flounder each side of its head; as it develops, the left refers to the species’ annual flounder and juveniles reside eye migrates across its head to the right side permanently in the estuaries while spawning migrations into nearshore of the body. waters in the winter. Adults migrate adults may leave estuaries during warm summer months. While in two phases: an autumn estuarine Maximum Age/Size: Adult winter flounder immigration prior to spawning, and estuaries provide good habitat for may grow as large as 70 cm (27.6 inches) and spawning, predatory and a late spring/summer movement to reach ages of 15+ years. either deeper, cooler portions of competitive interactions may occur frequently due to the high number of estuaries or to offshore areas after Stock Status: spawning. This pattern of seasonal organisms found in these areas. • Gulf of Maine - Overfished status unknown Additionally, the nearshore grounds distribution may change in the and overfishing is not occurring northern extent of the range where are vulnerable to water pollution and • Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic - habitat loss. they migrate to shallow water in the Overfished and overfishing is not occurring summer and deeper waters in the Tagging studies have shown winter. spawning-site fidelity in winter The annual spawning period flounder, meaning that individuals varies geographically, with peak spawning times generally will often return to the location where they were hatched, or occurring earlier in southern locations. During spawning, close by. This suggests that subpopulations of winter flounder may be vulnerable to localized depletion. (to page 27) - 8 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 FISHERMAN CITED FOR EXCEEDING TAUTOG CATCH LIMIT East Greenwich angler also charged with obstructing and officer and resisting arrest

The Division of Law Enforcement (DLE) cited an East bucket of fish and dumped them overboard. EPO Guise gave Greenwich man Tuesday for taking 21 tautog – more than twice repeated commands to stop, which Norin ignored. After Norin the daily possession limit for a recreational angler – the RI failed to comply with EPO Guise’s verbal commands to be Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced. placed in custody, Guise arrested him. The number of fish illegally taken does not include the DLE charged Norin with counts of exceeding the possession tautog that Lary C. Norin, of 16 River Run in East limit of tautog, obstruction of an officer, and resisting arrest Greenwich, allegedly dumped from and cited Norin for littering (the a bucket into Wickford Cove even as cove with fish) and improper display Environmental Police Officer (EPO) of his boat registration. Harold Guise repeatedly ordered “Rhode Island’s natural Norin not to. resources such as saltwater fisheries EPO Guise approached Norin’s are a public trust, and I am always boat to board after Norin docked it at grateful for the efforts and actions the Wickford Cove Marina. With of our Environmental Police Officers Norin allegedly refusing to answer who safeguard that trust,” said DEM basic questions and walking away Director Janet Coit. “In this from the boat, EPO Guise questioned instance, Officer Guise deserves Norin’s two companions who great credit for a difficult job well remained aboard. done.” One of the two men said the “When a poacher takes so many group had been out fishing and had fish above the legal daily limit, he’s a limit of tautog. stealing from all anglers,” said Steve EPO Guise saw that there The RI recreational limit for tautog is 5 fish per Medeiros, Executive Director of the appeared to be more than the legal person per day, but with a 10-fish boat maximum. Rhode Island Anglers Association. limit of 10 fish aboard and asked “We appreciate and support RIDEM Norin to return to his boat. Division of Law Enforcement’s Norin stepped back on board and allegedly picked up a efforts to enforce marine fisheries laws.”

THANK YOU The Foundation wished to express our since condolences and thanks to Mrs. Joan Jolie who selected the RISA Foundation In Lieu Of Flowers, after the loss of her husband Bob. Robert (Bob) W. Jolie 1939 - 2018 Robert (Bob) Jolie, 79 of Wakefield, RI and Cudjoe Key, FL passed away on Saturday, September 22. He was the beloved husband of Joan (Modeley) Jolie for 56 years. Besides his wife he is survived by two children, Lisa White and her husband Chip of Bolton, CT an dMichael Jolie and his wife Penny of Denver, CO, as well as five grandchildren. Bob proudly served in the U.S. Navy in his youth. Bob was a life-long fisherman, a hobby he fell in love with as a young child and continued fishing to the day he died. He was a member of the RI Commercial Rod & Reel Association, the Moose Club and the South Kingstown Elks Lodge. Joan said that they admired the work done by RISAA and selected the RISA Foundation in lieu of flowers. - 9 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 PREVIOUS AND CONTINUALLY SUPPORTED PROGRAMS • Blackstone River fish ladders construction • Plum Beach Lighthouse restoration • Striped Bass Myco Research • College Scholarships in Marine Sciences • Public access adoption programs • Tag & Release Program • Kickemuit River fish ladder construction • Public education programs and seminars • Tag-A-Giant Tuna Foundation • Mercury in Local Fish Research Grant • Recreational Fishing Symposium 2013,2015,2018 • Ten Mile River fish ladders • Narragansett Bay Journal publication • Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation • Woonasquatucket River fish ladders • Newport fishermen’s ladder repairs • Saugatucket River fish passage, Westerly RISAA/RIDEM Adopt-A-Ramp Signs • Ninigret Park Fishing Access • Sea Grant research programs Take-A-Kid Fishing Day 1998-2018 • Pawtuxet River fish passage • Special Shore Fishing Scup signs for RIDEM Youth Fishing Camp 2016-2018 2018 FOUNDATION DONORS COPPER (up to $49) Benjamin Aceto Mark Dion Donald Goodroe Paul Kavanagh John Mello Alton Smith Steve Andras Robert Donald Robert Graap Daniel King Clarence Moore Paul Smith Rene’ Blanchette John Edwards Thomas Grennan Lori Kinne John O’Brian Jake Taraksian John Boardman Louis Einhorn Jeffrey Hall Jeffrey Kirkpatrick James Parillo Armand Tetreault Terrence Boylan Richard Ferris Dale Hartman Andrew Korfin Herve Pelland Richard Tewey Ron DeSantis Timothy French Dave Hellner James Liddell John Pope John Trainor Daniel daSilveira Timothy Garlick Georgette Henrich Ronald Marafioti Jan Przezdziecki Michael Tripp Robert deVarennes Leon Gomlinski Russell Hubert Domenick Masiello John Reid, Jr. Daniel Watson BRONZE ($50+) Brian Beltrami Stephanie Caruolo Harold Hemberger Laura Messier Timothy Plants Edward Skwirz Earl Buckman Richard Falcone Peter Hendricks Larry Mouradjian Francis Sawicki William Sokolowski Buzzard Bay Garth Fondo Benjamin Lenda Robert Murgo Alan Sharaf William Sosnicki Anglers Club Timothy Gilchrist Raymond Marchak J. George O’Keefe Alec Sinel Alfred Trombley Anthony Caruolo Robert Hawthorne Robert Mazzeo Bob Onosko Capt. Stephen Skenyon Eric Weybrant SILVER ($100+) George Allen Stuart Cohen F.Charles Haigh Stephen Medeiros RI Mobile John Silva AmazonSmile Kenneth Cooper Douglas Jost David Michel Sportfishmen Harry Templeton Andrew Berg Buster Costello Fred Kolling, III New Balance Athletics Anthony Rocha, Michael Testa Mel Blake Gisele Golembeski Vincent Lechmanick John Peacock, Jr. MD Patrick Watson Dickson Boenning Giacomo Guarnaccia Capt. Jonathan Lewie Luca Razza Robert Sangster John Webber Norman Buecher David Green Jack McMath Mitchell Riffkin, Esq Steven Shohan PLATINUM ($500+) IN MEMORY OF Bentley Foundation Capt. Sandy Kane Robert Anderson Daniel daSilveira Walter Krupinski Lucas Salem Gino DeFeudis David Pollack Donald Barrows Ortence Hojnoski Richard Mandeville Stephen Therrien Robert Donaldson Snug Harbor Marina Art Beauregard Robert Jolie Tom Nerney John Vivari Richard Hittinger Charles Bradbury Donna Kane Earl Noblet

Enclosed is my tax-deductible contribution to The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Foundation The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, created to provide an educational and public service forum for recreational saltwater anglers and the general community; to foster sportsmanship; to support marine conservation and the sound management of fisheries resources. Please print: Name: ______Phone: ______Address: ______no. street city state zip Enclosed is cash or check for: $5 $10 $25 $50 $100 other______ It is OK to print my name Do NOT print my name Donation made in the name of: ______Mail to: RISA Foundation, P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI 02816 Any donation over $10 will be sent a receipt that proves your contribution for tax purposes - 10 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 RISA Foundation grant put to good use Saugatucket River Fish Passage Work Completed

This past February, John Torgan, RI State Director of The Nature Conservancy contacted RISAA seeking assistance in rebuilding the fish ladder on the Saugatucket River in South Kingstown. The RISA Board agreed that this was a good project and provided a $15,000 grant to help with the work. There was already a fish ladder at this location, but the levels of the “steps” was too steep and the current too fast keeping many river herring from completing the trip Prior to rebuild, the height between into Indian Lake to each wier was too steep spawn. Volunteers had to use dip nets to help the fish into the lake. The goal of this project was to increase the number of concrete wiers (steps) in the ladder and revise the orientation The Saugatucket River runs from Indian Lake to the of the water flow notches, creating calm water pools to the side northern end of Point Judith Pond and empties into Block allowing the fish to rest before proceeding to the next step. Island Sound. The project was completed at the end of September!

Photos during construction where the fish passage meets the lake and where it begins to the south at the stream (lower photo)

Catherine Campbell, Director of Philanthropy for The Nature Conservany invited RISAA President The completed fish passage has more wiers Steve Medeiros to visit the site during with water flow notches in a single line the reconstruction allowing fish to rest in calm areas to the sides - 11 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 - 12 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 The RISAA Charities Committee exists to lend a helping hand to others in need,and is a way of giving back to our community. THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTION Report by TOM ALS Association, RI Chapter MEADE The Rhode Island chapter of The ALS Association — those deployed during the Gulf War, are approximately twice as known for its Ice Bucket Challenge — receives this month’s likely to develop ALS. $300 donation from RISAA. For me, it’s personal. The disease always ends in death. I have a friend who is living with amyotrophic lateral When I worked for The Providence Journal, two brilliant sclerosis (ALS). And two of my colleagues at my former job writers, Brian Dickenson and Bill Malinowski, were taken by died of ALS. ALS. To the end, both gentlemen maintained their sense of I visit my buddy once or twice a week. Each week, his humor and dignity. physical abilities diminish more. Now, he cannot speak, so he Thanks to The ALS Association (as well as Veterans Affairs texts, but that’s becoming more difficult as his hands stiffen and Hope Health) my friend has received help with mobility, and weaken. He can no longer drink from a cup or get out of daily care, and communicating. He has a great sense of humor bed by himself. Each week, it’s and a ready smile. another problem. The Rhode Island Chapter and “ALS is a progressive the national ALS Association neurodegenerative disease that operate under a shared mission: affects nerve cells in the brain and the “to help people living with spinal cord,” according to The ALS Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association. Also known as Lou and to leave no stone unturned in Gehrig’s disease, “The progressive search for the cure.” degeneration of the motor neurons in The local chapter serves over ALS eventually leads to their death. When the motor neurons 70 people on average, says Lynn McGovern, care services die, the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle director, “We gain and lose an average of 25 people each year.” movement is lost. With voluntary muscle action progressively The chapter offers a full range of services including home affected, patients in the later stages of the disease may become visits, consultations, equipment loans, handicapped totally paralyzed.” transportation, handicapped ramp assistance, respite care, A little over 6,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with educational symposium, support groups and multidisciplinary ALS each year. care at the Louise Wilcox ALS Clinic. According to the ALS Association, there are several The ALS Association depends on donations. The Ice Bucket research studies past and present investigating possible risk Challenge has brought awareness and contributions to the factors that may be associated with ALS, but more work is cause. needed to conclusively determine what genetics and/or To learn more about ALS and the Rhode Island chapter, visit environment factors contribute to developing ALS. the website http://webri.alsa.org It is known, however, that military veterans, particularly

- 13 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 Amphipods and Isopods Colloquial Nicknames: beach fleas, gribbles, sea pill bug Scientific names: Amphipods: Gammarus spp., Talorchestia spp. Isopods: Sphaeroma spp., Idotea spp., Erichsonella spp., Limnoria spp. Field Markings: Amphipods range from gray to sand-colored In contrast, isopods are flattened from top to bottom and are to brownish-green to mottled with red or organge. bottom dwellers. They are buglike in appearance, resembling Size: quarter-inch to 2 inches long. insects found on land. Isopods are larger and are commonly Habitat: Sandy beaches, seaweed, tide pools, todal marshes found crawling and swimming among weeds, eelgrass, tide pools, above the hight tide line, eelgrass beds, seagrass meadows dock pilings and rocks. Seasonal Appearance: Year-round Both amphipods and isopods eat detritus (dead and decaying algae and seaweed) as well as other plants and animals. DISTINGUISHING FEATURES AND Decomposition of detritus is continued by bacteria and smaller BEHAVIORS animals that consume the waste of The small flealike creatures seen amphipods and isopods. Some of these scuttling around seaweed on the beach, creatures are parasitic on other Bay burrowing in the sand, under rocks and animals. Parasitic amphipods can be in tidepools, generally belong to two found on jellies, while parasitic isopods groups of crustaceans called amphipods can live in the gills and fins of fish. and isopods. Both amphipods and isopods belong to a group known as RELATIONSHIP TO arthropods, which includes animals with PEOPLE jointed appendages and hard Found throughout Narragansett Bay exoskeletons, such as crabs, lobsters, and along the eastern seaboard, amphipds insects and spiders. The exoskeleton Ammphipod Gammarus and isopods are an important part of the consists of armorlike, overlapping plates. food chain, playing a major role in the diet There are many different species of amphipods, and most of various birds, fish and crabs. are difficult to distinguish from one another. The name During the summer, beachgoers commonly see large numbers “amphipod” means “double,” or two kinds of legs. Of their eight of amphipods and isopods feeding on seaweek that has been pairs of legs, the first five are used for walking and the last three, washed ashore by wave action. in the tail region, are modified for swimming. Some amphipods also have modified tail appendages for jumping, and some have HOW TO GET YOUR OWN COPY RISAA members can purchase their own copy of The an appendage used for grasping. Amphipods generally swim on Uncommon Guide To Common Life on Narragansett Bay their sides. Their bodies are flattended sideways with highly for $15 from the RISAA Merchandise Committee. Stop by arched backs. the committee table at any monthly RISAA meeting.

- 14 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 ecoRI News Solution to Lobster Disease Remains Elusive Blindness also a growing concern by TODD McLEISH / ecoRI News

Despite more than 20 years of declining lobster populations “In essence, the idea works, but we don’t know what’s the in southern New England and extensive studies of the shell right bacteria, how do we treat the lobsters, how often, and disease that is a major factor in their decline, scientists are still how to do it in a reasonable time frame.” struggling to provide definitive answers to help restore hope In a laboratory setting, Castro’s URI colleagues David Nelson to those working in the local lobster fishery. and David Rowley isolated probiotics from healthy lobsters A new study of lobsters along the eastern Connecticut coast and tested them against what they believe may be the “bad has found that the disease is linked to warming water bacteria.” The strategy looked promising. Initial trials on adult temperatures, while progress is slow in efforts to identify lobsters were positive as well. But it may not be practical. probiotics to counteract the disease and to better understand “Our initial idea was that lobstermen could treat the lobsters why so many lobsters are blind. on their boat,” Castro said. “But it’s hard to do; you have to do “Epizootic shell disease first appeared around 1996 and it in a lab. Maybe we still haven’t identified the right probiotic. became quite prevalent around 1999, and it continues to be And are we even working with the right pathogens?” prevalent,” said Maya Groner, who conducted the Connecticut While that work is continuing, Castro is investigating why study as a post-doctoral researcher at the Virginia Institute of about half of the lobsters she has tested are functionally blind. Marine Science. “It’s been a challenge to figure out what the “That’s a more concerning issue to me than shell disease,” pathogen associated with the disease is. The best evidence she said. “My question is, is it related to shell disease. The suggests it may be a suite of bacteria that chews away at the lobster’s endocrine control system is located in their eye stalk, carapace, but that suite of bacteria changes over the course of so if a lobster is blind, is it molting incorrectly, and is that the disease.” contributing to the disease.” Her study found that the increased prevalence of the disease Castro said a colleague in Virginia thinks the cause of the stems from warmer water temperatures that induce the lobsters blindness may be manganese, a neurotoxin that harms optic to molt their shells earlier than usual. nerves and is released from sediments under low-oxygen Using data on 200,000 lobsters collected over 37 years in conditions. Waterford, Conn., as part of biological monitoring near the But studies are Millstone Nuclear Power Station, Groner found that about 80 just now under percent of male lobsters have the disease during warm years, way. with females contracting the disease at a slightly lower rate. “In my “Molting their shell resets their health,” she said. “If they mind, it has to don’t molt, there’s no way they can recover. But now that they’re be related to molting earlier in the spring, the molt happens before they’re shell disease. even challenged with the disease.” That’s my gut The earlier molt allows the disease to progress longer than feeling,” if the lobsters molted in summer, as they typically do. Castro said. Groner found that for every 1.8-degree increase in the One of the average temperature of the bottom water in May, lobsters molted challenges to about six days earlier. In early-molting years, disease prevalence finding the Epizootic shell disease can lead to pitting, doubled by September. answers has erosion, and the darkening of a lobster’s “It’s very consistent with trends we’ve seen with other been carapace. Survival of moderately and marine diseases,” Groner said. “Organisms at the southern part inadequate severely diseased lobsters, those with of their range — like lobsters in Long Island Sound — are research disease on more than 10 percent of their limited by temperature. They’re at their thermal tolerance limit. funding, cuticle, is only 30 percent that of healthy So as temperatures increase, they’re becoming stressed and Castro said, so animals. (Jeff Shields/VIMS) less able to cope with diseases.” much of the University of Rhode Island fisheries researcher Kathy research is being done piecemeal. Castro has been studying lobsters for more than two decades, “I really wish there was something fundamentally easy that and she decided to look for a solution to help lobsters recover we could do to solve all these problems,” she said. “That would from the disease even though the precise cause of the disease be my greatest dream. But I know it takes time. And as much as is still uncertain. She is collaborating with URI colleagues who we know about lobsters, there’s a lot more we don’t know.” are studying probiotics on oysters. “Why can’t we identify good bacteria that normally occur Rhode Island resident and author Todd McLeish runs a wildlife on lobsters, take the bad bacteria off, and repopulate their shells blog: narshaleslefttooth.blogspot.com with good bacteria?” she wondered. - 15 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 by A calm day on the water CAPT. ROBB can turn DANGEROUS fast! ROACH This event took place in 2004, but it deserves repeating, and began the process of finding especially if it can save your life. something to put in the hole (we didn't know if there were more holes). After Many of you know me, most don't. I am a third (possibly several failed attempts we managed to more) generation offshore fisherman (my grandfather preferred plug the hole and the pumps started gaining ground. Whew! the harpoon) and have spent my life on/ near the water. First to arrive was Grant from Grant's taxidermy. Thanks At age eight I made my first trip offshore with my father to Grant! Not only do you do great mounts you are a true catch a white marlin and football (50 lbs.) bluefin inside coxes gentleman/sportsman. The Coast Guard and Safe/Sea made it ledge on our 23 foot Mako. I have caught giant bluefin with there next, and once hooked up to the Safe/Sea boat, we were Dick Slater, remember the days of the fleets and 150+ lb. yellowfin back in Jamestown within an hour. in the dump, etc. I have continued this tradition and make We obviously hit a submerged object. We looked back as dozens of trips offshore every year, but I have never had soon as we realized we hit something and could see something anything close to what happened to me on August 23rd. slightly under the surface. There was a brief search for the We left East Ferry in Jamestown 5:15 a.m. on my 26' Cape object by the Coast Guard, but I do not believe they found it. Cod sportfish which has a 420 Yanmar diesel straight drive, We surveyed the damage and found no evidence it was a whale with my mate and a close freind. We were heading toward the or lobster trap. My guess would be a large log or wood object Butter Hole at a moderate 24 knots. of some sort. It was a nice day, flat calm and filled with anticipation. We LESSONS LEARNED made it to the north edge of the Mudhole by 6 a.m. and all eyes A few of things I want to mention if this should ever happen were forward, anticipating the onslaught of lobster traps. Out to you: of nowhere there was a huge BANG! 1. Get a plug kit for your boat. I didn't have one, but I do The boat coasted to a stop as myself and my crewmen flew now. forward. Luckily no was hurt. I immediately looked down at my 2. Relay your position data to the Coast Guard first. We controls and my heart dropped when the bilge light lit up and were very close to losing battery power, and if I had not done water started pouring out of the line, port side. this and the situation was slightly worse, we could still be Instictively, I lifted the bilge hatch to find my shaft gone swimming. and a hole where it was, spraying water into my bilge like a 3. Get an EPIRB and always check that your safety firehose... and we were 10 miles east of Block Island! equipment. There was already 2 feet of water in my bilge by the time I This could happen to you! relayed my position to the Coast Guard. We put on life jackets,

OPINION STRIPED BASS MANAGEMENT: WHEN WILL WE EVER LEARN? BY TONY FRIEDRICH THE STAGE IS SET FOR A There is also talk of opening the EEZ SHOWDOWN IN FEBRUARY for striper harvest. Representative As you are probably aware, striped Zeldin’s amendment to HR 200 would do bass management is getting hit from all that with a small area around Block Island sides. The newest stock assessment will and open Pandora’s Box for our favorite be ready in February 2019. In the fish. Much like pulling a thread on a meantime, some states are thinking it sweater, it won’t take much for the striped might be a good idea to lower the bass management to unravel once even biological reference points (BRPs) for the the smallest section of the EEZ is opened species. In layman’s terms, BRPs are Our record of success managing used to count how many fertile, female striped bass on the East Coast has been fish we leave in the system. If you lower hit or miss during the last few years. In the BRPs, you are saying that there doesn’t need to be so many October 2014, the Striped Bass Management Board approved fish left uncaught. However, we have the ability to stand up for Addendum IV, which implemented a 25% reduction in harvest striped bass and make sure our kids and grandchildren have for the coastal stocks and a 20.5% reduction in harvest for the the same opportunities we experienced. Chesapeake Bay. (to page 31)

- 16 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 Special Tournaments Done, But Still Time To Fish!

The final two Special Tournaments for 2019 took place last The Special Tournament season may have ended, but month. Congratulations to those members that took part. Here the Yearlong Tournament is still going on and runs are the results: through December 15, 2018. Many species, including cod, black sea bass and tautog are BLUEFISH SPECIAL TOURNAMENT • Sept 28-Oct 8 still plentiful. Boat Division The black sea bass and tautog season in Rhode Island runs ADULT JUNIOR through December 31. 1st...William Hubert: 6.16 1st...Evan Duda: 4.50 While it’s not the same every year, the last few years have 2nd..Eric Duda: 5.14 2nd..Nick Duda: 2.78 seen many large schools of migrating quality striped bass passing 3rd...no entry 3rd...no entry very close to our shore well into December. Shore Division What better way to shorten the off-season than by fishing ADULT JUNIOR right into December! 1st..Michael Tilelli: 7.96 1st...no entry Check out the current standings at the RISAA web site at 2nd..no entry 2nd...no entry http://risaa.org/tournaments/2018_yearlong.html. 3rd...no entry 3rd...no entry TOURNAMENT COMMITTEE ANNUAL MEETING TAUTOG SPECIAL TOURNAMENT • Oct 12-28 The Tournaments Committee has scheduled its Annual Boat Division Meeting for Thursday, November 8th at 6:30. This will be the ADULT JUNIOR time when we plan for the 2019 tournament season and set up 1st...Robert Matteson: 9.06 1st...no entry the Special Tournaments. 2nd...Kathleen Lewis: 7.80 2nd...no entry Rule changes will also be discussed along with a few issues 3rd...Barbara Audino: 5.85 3rd...no entry that came up during the 2018 season. Many members have Shore Division volunteered their thoughts during the past season. ADULT JUNIOR All members are welcome to join the Tournaments Committee. 1st...Normand Morrissette: 5.39 1st...no entry This is a great way to get involved in YOUR club. If you’re 2nd...no entry 2nd...no entry interested, please send an email to [email protected] for more 3rd...no entry 3rd...no entry information.

- 17 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 The Yearlong Tournament is a continuing tournament that runs from January 1 to December 15 each year. All RISAA members are eligible to participate, and there are no fees. Official Weight Slips are available at each monthly meeting and at all sanctioned bait shops. Only authorized 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. Standings as of of 10/28/18 BLACK SEA BASS BLUEFISH BONITO

BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION ADULT (minimum 1 lb) ADULT (minimum 1 lb) ADULT (minimum 8 lbs) ADULT (minimum 8 lbs) ADULT (minimum 3 lbs) ADULT (minimum 3 lbs) 1. Richard Hittinger: 4.84 1. Norm Morrissette: 3.00 1. Thomas McGuire: 16.60 1. Richard Heffernan: 10.80 1. Susan Lema: 5.80 1. Michael Tilelli: 3.79 2. Lori Kinne: 4.49 -tie 2. none yet 2. Stephen Skenyon: 12.00 2. Michael Tilelli: 10.00 2. Frederick Pogmore: 3.67 2. Richard Heffernan: 3.20 2. Thomas Kinne: 4.49 -tie 3. none yet 3. William Hubert: 10.18 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. Russell Hubert: 3.82 JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) 1. Nathaniel Pakuris: 2.95 1. none yet 1. Nathaniel Pakuris: 11.80 1. none yet 1. none yet 1. none yet 2. Corey Templeton: 2.94 2. none yet 2. Nick Duda: 5.42 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 3. Evan Duda: 2.58 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet

COD FALSE ALBACORE FLUKE

BOAT DIVISION BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION ADULT (minimum 8 lbs) ADULT (minimum 5 lbs) ADULT (minimum 5 lbs) ADULT (minimum 2.5 lbs) ADULT (minimum 2 lb) 1. Brian Beltrami: 19.39 1. William Matteson: 7.58 1. Michael Tilelli: 10.45 1. Bruce Lawing: 11.90 1. Michael Tilelli: 6.60 2. none yet 2. Robert Matteson: 6.56 2. Richard Heffernan: 7.56 2. Matthew Davidson: 10.32 2. Priscilla Bogdan: 2.45 3. none yet 3. Thomas Houde: 5.50 3. none yet 3. Robert Sangster: 10.12 3. none yet

JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) 1. none yet 1. Nathaniel Pakuris: 6.90 1. none yet 1. Corey Templeton: 4.12 1. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet

HADDOCK MAHI MAHI POLLOCK SCUP

BOAT DIVISION BOAT DIVISION BOAT DIVISION BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION ADULT (minimum 3 lbs) ADULT (minimum 6 lbs) ADULT (minimum 5 lbs) ADULT (minimum 1 lb) ADULT (minimum 1 lb) 1. Brian Beltrami: 6.61 1. none yet 1. none yet 1. Edward Mardo: 2.40 1. Harry Potter: 2.20 2. Mark Paparelli: 3.20 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. Russell Hubert: 2.30 2. Norm Morrissette: 1.82 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. Stephen Skenyon: 2.21 3. Michael Tilelli: 1.2

JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) 1. none yet 1. none yet 1. none yet 1. Corey Templeton: 2.02 1. Harry Potter: 2.20 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. Nathaniel Pakuris: 1.94 2. Michael Tilelli: 1.20 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. Nick Duda: 1.56 3. none yet

STRIPED BASS TAUTOG TUNA Albacore, Bluefin (no giants), Yellowfin Federal minimums apply • 1st, 2nd, 3rd each species BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION BOAT DIVISION ONLY ADULT (minimum 15 lbs) ADULT (minimum 15 lbs) ADULT (minimum 3 lbs) ADULT (minimum 3 lbs) ADULT (federal min.) 1. Peter Vican: 49.15 1. Edward Sousa: 28.01 1. Jason Arthur: 12.56 1. Frank Fraioli: 8.40 1. none yet 2. Donald Smith: 30.76 2. Thomas McGuire: 27.22 2. Paul Brousseau: 11.10 2. Richard Reich: 7.66 2. none yet 3. none yet 3. nGil Bell: 22.08 3. Matthew Haczynski: 6.27 3. Norm Morrissette: 5.90 3. none yet

JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (no minimum) JUNIOR (federal min.) 1. Corey Templeton: 29.00 1. Corey Templeton: 13.84 1. Nathaniel Pakuris: 3.96 1. none yet 1. none yet 2. Cody Ackley: 20.64 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 2. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet 3. none yet - 18 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 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. BOAT DIVISION SHORE DIVISION SPECIES WEIGHT ANGLER YEAR SPECIESWEIGHT ANGLER YEAR Black Sea Bass 7.20 Raymond Morrocco 2012 Black Sea Bass 3.85 Joseph Pearson 2009 Bluefish 20.46 Robert Matteson 2017 Bluefish 16.90 Gilbert Bell 2016 Bonito 12.20 Michael Neto 2004 Bonito 9.99 Jack Sprengel, Jr. 2007 Cod 49.10 Robert Morel 2001 False Albacore 12.22 Jack Sprengel, Jr. 2007 False Albacore 16.20 Charles Bradbury 2004 Fluke 6.60 Michael Tilelli 2018 Fluke 15.65 Kyle Blount 2006 Scup 2.60 Charles Underhill 2012 Haddock 7.85 Nicholas Blount 2004 Shad 1.75 Jonathan Pickering 2008 Mahi Mahi 37.80 Jack Sprengel, Jr. 2010 Squeteague 16.54 Robert Moeller 2007 Pollock 27.70 Harry Templeton 2001 Striped Bass 51.66 Richard Reich 2013 Scup 3.74 Jack Sprengel, Jr. 2014 Tautog 11.20 Richard Gallipeau 2009 Shad 3.80 Kyle Paparelli 2009 Winter Flounder 4.40 Dick Geldard 2009 Squeteague 10.50 Robert Roy 2006 Striped Bass 77.40 Peter Vican 2011 Tautog 18.90 Joseph Bleczinski 2015 Tuna -Albacore 55.00 Harley Benton 1999 Tuna -Bluefin 193.88 Jack Sprengel, Jr. 2009 Tuna -Yellowfin 112.00 Randy Pereschino 2001 Winter Flounder 4.40 Michael Lanni 1998

• indicates RISAA member * note at bottom those marked Location Maximum AW Marina, (New London, CT)...... 60 lbs •Block Island Fishworks (New Harbor)...... 200 lbs •Breachway Bait & Tackle (Charlestown,RI).. 50 lbs •Frances Fleet/Captains Catch (Galilee)..... 100 lbs •Lucky Bait & Tackle* (Warren)...... 200 lbs Maridee Bait & Tackle...... 50 lbs •Misquamicut Bait & Tackle (Westerly)...... 100 lbs •Pete’s Bait & Tackle (Woonsocket)...... 160 lbs •Quaker Lane Bait & Tackle (N.Kingstown) 60 lbs •Quonnie Lane Bait & Tackle (Charlestown) 100 lbs Riverside Marine (Tiverton)...... 75 lbs Sam’s Bait & Tckle (Middletown)...... 400 lbs •Snug Harbor Marina (Wakefield)...... 250 lbs •Tackle Box, Inc. (Warwick)...... 200 lbs * hanging scale not certified, but flat scale is good - 19 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 UPCOMING SEMINAR Monday, November 26 at 7:00 PM

A SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL MEETING FOR MEMBERS WIND TURBINES OFF OUR SHORES We must be sure environment and fisheries are not damaged If all offshore proposals are approved, there could be hundreds of wind turbines off the coast of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Deleware and Maryland. Whether you are FOR or AGAINST wind farms, as fishermen and environmentalists we MUST be sure that our marine environment is protected. The RISAA Board believes that many studies must be done before any project proceeds and that the recreational fishing industry is involved in the process. We have invited the three regional wind farm leasees to attend this special seminar to hear what the recreational fishing community has to say, and ALL THREE have accepted. This will NOT be a PRO or CON Wind Farm night! The purpose is for members to hear about the proposals, tell them our concerns and allow members to ask questions and express their own concerns. THE SPEAKERS

CAPT. JOHN O'KEEFE LAURA MORSE CHRISTA BANK Deepwater Wind Bay State Wind Vineyard Wind Manager of Operations and Maintenance Environmental Manager and Whale Fishery Liaison. Previous 12 yrs worked for the Block Island Wind Farm and Biologist. Seeks to achieve coexistence on recreational and commercial fisheries Marine Affairs for Deepwater Wind. with the fishing industry. research PUT THE DATE ON YOUR CALENDAR. SEATING LIMITED!

FOOD WILL BE SERVED* BETWEEN 5:30 - 6:30 Seminar is held at the West Warwick TONIGHT'S MENU Elks • Tossed salad w/roll: $3.50 • Oven roasted pork loin, mashed potatoes, vegetable 60 Clyde Street, West Warwick, RI & gravy: $7.95 (directions of page 23) • Meatball parmesan sub w/chips: $6.95 Non-Members Welcome • Italian wedding soup (bowl): $3.95 NON-MEMBER ADMISSION: $10 donation *Food NOT included in admission and is provided by the Elks. to RISAA's Scholarship Fund (RISAA members attend free) Pay separately at buffet line. - 20 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 UPCOMING SEMINAR Monday, December 17 at 7:00 PM Northern Pike and Walleye Fishing in Quebec

featuring Brian Beltrami While we naturally spend our time learning and talking about saltwater fishing, many members enjoy ALL types of fishing. There is a vast, remote fishery to our north in Canada and most can be reached within a day's drive. Brian, a RISAA member for the past 8 years, has been making yearly trips to Quebec since 2002 fishing for walleye and northern pike. In the past he has done a fly-in trip to a remote fishing camp, but now he drives to the camps. He'll talk about finding northern fishing camps at the winter outdoor fishing expos and what questions to ask the operators of those camps. Brian will also give details such as what to expect crossing the border into Canada; what personal and fishing gear to bring, and then get into some of the fishing techniques and baits to use for walleye and northern pike.

EVERY MEMBER WHO ATTENDS IS ELIGIBLE TO WIN THE NIGHT'S FREE DOOR PRIZE: BRING A FRIEND! A $200 Gift Certificate RISAA members can bring a guest ONE TIME To Any Member Tackle Shop to the meeting at no charge so they can see (see page 22) what RISAA seminars are like

FOOD WILL BE SERVED* BETWEEN 5:30 - 6:30 Seminar is held at the West Warwick TONIGHT'S MENU Elks • Tossed salad w/roll: $3.50 60 Clyde Street, West Warwick, RI • Roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed sweet potato, (directions of page 22) vegetable, cranberry sauce: $8.50 • Cheeseburger w/chips: $6.95 Non-Members Welcome NON-MEMBER ADMISSION: $10 donation *Food NOT included in admission and is provided by the Elks. to RISAA's Scholarship Fund (RISAA members attend free) Pay separately at buffet line. - 21 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 Directions to

West Warwick Elks Exit 12B 60 Clyde St., West Warwick, RI 401-821-9807 FROM PROVIDENCE AND POINTS NORTH: (map 1) I-95 South to exit 12B (RI-113W/East Ave). Pass R.I. Mall to light at Rt 2. (map 3) Straight across onto East Ave, then slight right to River St. to next light. Straight across onto Wakefield St. FROM I-95 (map 4) Go 1.8 miles, then turn left onto Grandview Dr. NORTH TO Grandview Dr (.13 mi) becomes Clyde St. Elks is (.07 mi) EAST AVE 1 on right.

FROM WESTERLY AND POINTS SOUTH: (map 2) I-95 North to exit 11 (left lane) onto I-295 North, then take Exit 1 from 295N onto East Ave (RI-113W). (map 3) Straight across onto East Ave, then slight right to River St. to next light. Straight across onto Wakefield St. (map 4) Go 1.8 miles, then turn left onto Grandview Dr. Grandview Dr (.13 mi) becomes Clyde St. Elks is (.07 mi) on right. FROM NARRAGANSETT AND SOUTH COUNTY: FROM I-95 Route 1 North to Route 4 North. Merge onto I-95 North. SOUTH TO (map 2) I-95 North to exit 11 (left lane) onto I-295 North, I-295 and to then take Exit 1 from 295N onto East Ave (RI-113W). 2 EAST AVE (map 3) Straight across onto East Ave, then slight right to River St. to next light. Straight across onto Wakefield St. FROM EAST AVE (map 4) Go 1.8 miles, then turn left onto Grandview Dr. Grandview Dr (.13 mi) becomes Clyde St. Elks is (.07 mi) TO WAKEFIELD ST on right.

Google satellite view

4 WAKEFIELD ST TO ELKS, 60 CLYDE ST

- 22 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 *Chose from any of these member tackle shops: Block Island Fishworks Misquamicut Bait & Tackle Quonnie Bait & Tackle The Tackle Box Breachway Bait & Tackle Pete’s Bait & Tackle Saltwater Edge Watch Hill Outfitters Lucky Bait & Tackle Quaker Lane Bait & Tackle Snug Harbor Marina

• Must be an adult/regular member in good standing • Must be present to win • RISAA Board members not eligible Rules: • Certificates must be redeemed within 90 days or is forfeited • Limited to one win per calendar year • May not be exchanged for cash • Entire amount must be redeemed at tackle shop October Door Prize Winners Winner of the REGULAR MEMBER door prize was Winner of the JUNIOR MEMBER door prize was JOSEPH COPPOLA NICK DUDA who selected her $200 certificate to Snug Harbor Marina who won a rod & reel combo

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

- 23 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 CONGRATULATIONS to Member STEVE KATKOWSKI who married his “best friend” MORGAN on September 29. “It was an amazing day,” said Steve “and the memories will last a lifetime.” In the photo with DAWN JOHNSON Morgan and Steve is their underwent foot surgery on October 12 for dog CLAMCAKE! nerve and tendon repair. The following day she was in a lot of pain, but doing well at home. We wish Dawn a speedy and total recovery.

- 24 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 Fact vs. Fiction: 3 Thnks You Thought You Knew About Jellyfish

Jellyfish. Jellies. Sea nettles. Whatever you call them, the Through remotely operated vehicle video observations such likelihood of running into these stinging tentacled creatures as this, we can learn much about the animals in the midwater generally increases in the summer. and what they are up to when we can catch them in an undisturbed manner. Jellyfish have a complicated relationship with humans: They The jelly (hydromedusa) is in a family of hydromedusae are often feared by beachgoers because of their sting. They called Rhopalonematidae, which is known for the canals running can get unintentionally caught up in commercial fishing nets. vertically on the inside of the bell, gonads attached to these Some jellies can even clog intake pipes of coastal power and canals, and sometimes having two sets of tentacles. In this desalination plants, and in high concentrations, can force video, you can see the perfectly relaxed arrangement of the two closures of popular beaches. sets of tentacles; scientists think this is a position that allows For for optimum scientists, feeding in the however, jellyfish midwater are fascinating environment at research subjects 3,000 – they play meters. (NOAA important roles in Office of the marine Ocean ecosystem and Exploration are a key source and Research, of food for some 2017 American fish and sea Samoa turtles. Some expedition) even protect commercially MYTH #2: valuable species, Jellyfish “go such as oysters, after” from predators. people Whatever Not true. your view may be, Any contact many with jellyfish is misconceptions incidental. exist about Humans are not jellyfish. Let’s on their menu, bust the Top 3 but when we myths: are in their environment we can get in the way of their tentacles. While jellyfish don’t have a brain, they can sense light and MYTH #1: Jellyfish are all the same species have coordinated swimming behaviors, which help keep them On the contrary, there are more than 200 documented species in good places to hunt for microscopic plants and fish eggs/ of true jellyfish (and many more of their stinging relatives) across larvae, or other prey like fish, worms, and crustaceans. the globe. The environmental conditions required for each species to thrive can differ. In fact, NOAA and Smithsonian MYTH #3: Applying urine to a jellyfish sting can Institution scientists recently found that sea nettles in the reduce the pain Chesapeake Bay are considerably different than those in the open ocean and recognized it as a new species. Perhaps the most interesting of myths, the use of urine to The jelly (hydromedusa) is in a family of hydromedusae treat stings has been tested and proven unhelpful. A better called Rhopalonematidae, which is known for the canals running idea? Try an acidic liquid like vinegar. There are also several vertically on the inside of the bell, gonads attached to these commercially available products marketed for stings. (to page canals, and sometimes having two sets of tentacles. In this 34) video, you can see the perfectly relaxed arrangement of the two What to do if you get stung: First, look for any tentacle sets of tentacles; scientists think this is a position that allows adhering to skin, and flush the area well with cold ocean water. for optimum feeding in the midwater environment at 3,000 meters. (to page 34) - 25 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 NO TRANSIT ZONE (from page 1) RISAA members who are also charter captains, have complained that they operate legally within the legal 3-mile state waters area around Block Island, while those who operate illegally (most from Montauk, NY) will fish at the Southwest October 27, 2018 Ledge catching those large stripers, many over 50 pounds. “This situation isn’t fair to local charter boats who fish Kelly Denit, Division Chief legally at Block, but can always see a fleet of boats over the 3- Office of Sustainable Fisheries mile line,” said Board Member Greg Vespe. “Then those charter 1315 East-West Highway, SSMC3 guys post photos online of their customers holding their illegal Silver Spring, MD 20910 catch of large stripers and bragging of how good they are.” Also, the fact is that those huge 40+ pound stripers are all RE: Opposition to Opening BITZ females and necessary to keep the overall population going. “We haven’t seen any credible assessment of what impact Dear Mr. Denit: opening the EEZ will be on the harvest of striped bass,” said Rich Hittinger, RISAA 1st Vice President. “A new striped bass The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association (RISAA) stock assessment is due soon, so how can this proposal even opposes the proposal put forward by NOAA to open the Block be considered without knowing if the stock is healthy enough Island Transit Zone (BITZ) to recreational fishing for striped for this added pressure on large breeding females.” bass. We recognize the fact that many boats are now unlawfully The Board also noted that DEM’s Enforcement Division fishing in the EEZ (beyond the 3-mile line) southwest of Block does not have the staff to effectively monitor the area, but Island and that these boats are stealing fish from all law-abiding wanted to stress that RISAA will continue to work with DEM fishers. In addition, we note that the current situation creates Enforcement as much as possible to encourage increased an economic hardship for charter boat businesses who obey enforcement of existing laws. the law, fishing in state waters, while many boats from RI and We encourage all RISAA members to obey the 3-mile NY are fishing illegally in the EEZ and then post their catches restrictions and report all observed fishing violations to: online to entice customers. RIDEM Enforcement at 401-222-3070 CTDEP at 860-424-3333 More important, we have not seen any credible assessment of MADEP at 800-632-8075 what impact opening this area to recreational fishing will have on the harvest of striped bass. Until NOAA has sufficient data ~ SEE LETTER TO NOAA AT RIGHT ~ to identify the impact of such an action we do not support legalizing additional harvest of a fish that is so important to the recreational fishers from RI, CT, and MA.

We understand that NOAA has completed data collection to determine the current Spawning Stock Status of striped bass and that the report of this status will be available to the public within the next few months. We believe that any decision on this BITZ proposal by NOAA should wait until after the Stock Status report is available. However, unless there is a very significant increase in the spawning stock of striped bass, we remain opposed to this proposed action.

We also strongly request additional enforcement of existing regulations to stop boats that are currently fishing in the Block Island Transit Zone illegally. RISAA will continue to work with RIDEM Enforcement and other fisheries law enforcement agencies as much as possible to encourage increased enforcement of existing laws. We ask that NOAA also increase enforcement actions to stop violation of existing laws. The Block Island Transit Zone was created to allow for boats to travel between Block Island and the mainland with stripers On behalf of the 7,900 recreational anglers and 28 affiliated aboard, but NOT for fishing. Now this proposal, brought about clubs we represent, we strongly urge that NOAA does NOT by NY Rep Zeldin, wants to open the Transit Zone for approve opening the Block Island Transit Zone to recreational recreational fishing as well. RISAA belives that opening the fishing. Southwest Ledge off Block Island will bring immediate pressure, day and night, totally depleting the large striped Stephen J. Medeiros bass in this small area. President

- 26 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 WINTER FLOUNDER (from page 8) Sources of natural mortality for winter flounder include predation, parasites, disease, and competition. Predatory fish Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic such as striped bass, bluefish, and summer flounder, as well as Otter trawls are the primary gear type used by commercial birds, invertebrates, and marine mammals prey on larvae and fishermen to catch winter flounder in the SNE/MA area. juveniles. Atlantic cod, spiny dogfish, goosefish, and winter Commercial landings from the SNE/MA stock averaged 18.7 skate are the main predators of adult winter flounder. million pounds from 1964 to 1972 before declining to around The diet of winter flounder is limited by their small mouth 10.6 million pounds throughout the mid- to late 1970s. Landings size and reliance on sight to locate prey. Feeding occurs solely increased in the early 1980s to a record high of 24.6 million during the day but intensifies during ebbing and flooding tides. pounds and then rapidly declined to 4.7 million pounds in 1994. Adults feed mostly on small invertebrates, shrimp, clams, and For the next seven years, landings increased steadily and worms. At night, winter flounder lie flat with their eye turrets exceeded 10 million pounds in 2001. retracted until sunrise. Commercial landings decreased for the next few years until settling between 2 and 3 million pounds from 2004 to 2008. In Commercial & Recreational Fisheries response to the poor condition of the stock, a moratorium in Historically valuable to commercial and recreational the SNE/MA fishery was implemented in federal waters between fishermen throughout New England and the Mid-Atlantic, May 2009 and April 2013. Concurrently, a 50 pound commercial winter flounder fisheries are a fraction of what they once were. bycatch limit was implemented in state waters, and remains in Total landings (commercial and recreational) in both areas peaked place today. Following the federal moratorium, 2016 commercial in the early 1980s at approximately 10 million pounds in the landings in SNE/MA were 1.14 million pounds. GOM and 36 million pounds in SNE/MA. Today, as a result of Most recreational landings in the SNE/MA stock occur stringent regulations, between January and June. landings in both areas are They were around 6 million significantly reduced. In pounds in the early 1980s, 2016, total landings in the increasing to 12 million GOM stock were 467,000 pounds in 1985, and then pounds while total landings steadily declined to in the SNE/MA stock were between 1-2 million pounds approximately 1.2 million (with the exception of a pounds. Over the past five couple years) from 1992 to years, commercial harvest 2001. Landings further has accounted for about decreased to less than 90% of total fishing 500,000 pounds in 2002 and mortality. below 300,000 in 2005; by 2010, landings fell to a Gulf of Maine historical low of roughly Otter trawls and gillnets 62,000 pounds. Similar to are the primary commercial the commercial SNE/MA gear types in GOM winter landings, this decline is flounder fishery. likely due to the retention Throughout the 1960s and prohibition in federal 1970s, commercial landings waters and 2 fish bag limit fluctuated around 2.2 million pounds. In 1982, commercial in state waters. In 2016, recreational landings were 73,000 landings peaked at just over 6 million pounds and then declined pounds. steadily to approximately 770,000 pounds in 1999. This decline may be attributed to extended spring closures in the GOM. Stock Status Commercial landings have been below 1 million pounds since Gulf of Maine 2005, and were 414,000 pounds in 2016. The 2017 GOM operational stock assessment indicates Recreational landings represent a significantly smaller overfishing is not occurring and the stock biomass is unknown. portion of total harvest on the GOM stock. GOM recreational The assessment uses area swept biomass from three different landings fluctuated between 1 and 3.5 million pounds in the trawl surveys (Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Maine-New early 1980s before declining below 200,000 pounds in 1991. Hampshire, and Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries) From 1997 to 2007, recreational landings further dropped to to determine the exploitation rate and overfishing status; below 100,000 pounds. however, biomass reference points remain unknown and the An almost four-fold increase in recreational landings overfished status cannot be determined. One of the largest occurred from 2007 to 2008 when landings increased from sources of uncertainty in the stock assessment is the survey approximately 57,300 to 227,000 pounds. 2016 GOM recreational gear catchability, which influences biomass and exploitation landings were roughly 53,000 pounds. rate estimates. (to page 30)

- 27 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 FLIPPIN’ OUT CHARTERS • Capt. B.J. Silvia report by TOM HOUDE

Selected at the April RISAA At our second location Captain meeting, our crew, Carey Prange BJ deployed the anchor using a Jr., Richard Reich and I (Tom windless. We picked up a few more Houde) were the lucky recipients of keeper tog and black sea bass. The a charter aboard Flippin’ Out bite didn’t develop any further so Charters with Capt. B. J. Silvia. we were off to another spot on the On the morning of October 10 eastern shore near the mouth of the we pushed off the dock just after Sakonnet. 7:00 AM leaving Portsmouth, RI in The captain got to wet a line and our wake. Our destination was quickly pulled up a blowfish, a new Newport, RI (aka Out Front). species for him. The pick of fish Heading south down the East was slow, but steady. Some false Passage we passed several albacore made brief appearances landmarks, the Pell bridge, Rose during our stay at this location. I Island Light, Castle Hill Light, Fort led our crew in landing the first Adams and Fort Wetherill. albie. We all got some casts into The weather was warm with Members (l-r) Richard Reich, Tom Houde and Carey Prange these fast moving fish with a temps in the 70’s, sunny and a Tsunami Air Wave paired with a breeze. Captain BJ warned us that Shimano Stradic 5000, the perfect the wind would be out of the southwest and increasing most of combination for landing this worthy quarry. the day, but wanted to get us on a few favorite spots of his first. On our way back to the marina Captain BJ located some Our first spot had Captain BJ deploying the MinnKota Spot- topwater action for us to finish our day. We all got some casts Lock with GPS positioning. The Spot-Lock allows for holding a into the melee of birds and bluefish working the area. We all position without regard to wind and current. No anchor needed. hooked up with several blues landed. The Our rods were bent during the day and we got tight with a Humminbird variety of fish during this fall run. We all brought back a sampling electronics got of our catches to enjoy at the dinner table. (to page 34) us on the numbers. This technology is first class. We all started to fish for tautog using green crabs for bait. We landed a few tog and black sea bass, but made a Tom Houde landed the first false albacore of move due to the trip the wind.

- 28 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 HERE WE GO AGAIN CHARTERS • Capt. Al Passarelli report by PAUL PHILLIPS

RISAA members Ted While heading closer to Davidson, Bob Ferioli, and shore to try to get us out of myself (Paul Phillips) were the wind, Captain Al spotted fortunate to win a four hour some diving birds working fluke and sea bass charter over a huge school of fish. with Captain Al Passarelli of He believed them to be Here We Go Again Charters, Spanish mackerel. We We met Captain Al at stopped and Nick broke out Skip’s Dock in Jerusalem, RI some spinning gear for us to on August 23. Also on board cast into the school, but for this trip was Captain Al’s whatever bait they were son and first mate Nick. keyed in on was all they were The weather forecast for interested in. We did find a the day called for clear skies more reasonable drift closer and a mild breeze, but this is to shore, but keeper fluke New England and that and black sea bass remained weather report was more than elusive. 5 minutes old. As we arrived Despite the wind and at the dock the skies were adverse conditions a good gray, the wind was blowing, time was had by all. Captain and rain began to fall. We were Al and Nick made the trip fortunate in that the darkest very enjoyable. The Over clouds remained to the north Easy is a very comfortable and by the time we reached RISAA members Ted Davidson, Bob Ferioli and Paul Phillips boat to fish from and I our destination the rain had displays part of their catch while fishing with Capt. Al Passarelli wouldn’t hesitate to book stopped, but the wind did not with Here We Go Again let up. Charters in the future, crossing my fingers and hoping for some Captain Al’s boat, Over Easy, is a 35 foot Egg Harbor with twin better weather! CAT dieselswhich was well-equipped and capable of getting us to the fishing grounds on Block Island Sound quickly and comfortably despite the less than perfect conditions. The drift was fast and it took a bit of lead to keep our rigs on the bottom. Ted and Bob opted to use bait rigs tipped with squid while I chose to fish a bucktail tipped with fluke strips and a Gulp teaser on a dropper. I had started with a 4 oz. bucktail but had to switch to a 6 oz. Jig to keep the line from scoping out too far. I was the first to hook up, but lost the fish on the way up. Several minutes later I was lucky enough to land a respectable fluke we estimated to be about 5 pounds. Bob and Ted each were treated to a hefty black sea bass and we each had hooked up with an occasional short fish. Captain Al did his best to put us on fish, but the drift wasn’t helping. Our presentations were just too fast to be productive. - 29 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 WINTER FLOUNDER (from page 27) A persistent challenge in assessing the GOM winter flounder as one group. Within these stock groups, winter flounder move stock is the apparent lack of response in survey abundance across state boundaries, and between state and federal waters. indices to significant declines in fishery removals. While Of the three winter flounder management areas, the recreational and commercial harvest has declined, survey Commission participates in the management of the GOM and indices have been relatively flat and there has been little change SNE/MA stocks. in the size structure of winter flounder caught. The Commission significantly reduced fishing on state waters spawning grounds in 2005 when Amendment 1 was Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic adopted. Amendment 1 established a minimum size limit, The 2017 SNE/MA operational stock assessment indicates shortened seasons, and lowered trip/bag limits to reduce fishing the stock is overfished, but overfishing is not occurring. pressure on spawning fish and rebuild spawning stock biomass. Spawning stock biomass (SSB) in 2016 was estimated to be Amendment 1 complemented Amendment 13 and Framework 4,360 mt, which is 18% of the biomass target and 36% of the 42 to the Groundfish FMP, which focused on offshore biomass threshold. The 2016 fishing mortality was estimated to commercial fisheries (3 – 200 miles). be 0.21 which is 62% of the overfished threshold. A large source Considerable management changes occurred in 2009 of uncertainty in the following the 2008 peer- stock assessment is the reviewed benchmark estimate of natural assessment, which mortality, which affects estimated the SNE/MA the scale of the biomass stock at 9% of the target and fishery removal biomass. In federal estimates. waters, the Secretary of An interesting result Commerce prohibited the of the 2017 stock retention of SNE/MA assessment is that while winter flounder through SNE/MA SSB has interim action. This generally decreased moratorium was extended over the time series, through the Council’s recruitment has steadily Amendment 16 to the increased since historic Groundfish FMP. In state low levels in 2013. In waters, the Commission fact, current recruitment approved Addendum I, estimates are above the which reduced the SNE/ 10 year average. MA commercial Continued surveys and possession limit to 50 assessments will be needed to monitor this trend and determine pounds and implemented a 2 fish bag limit in the recreational its impact on the population. fishery. The Commission opted to establish a bycatch-only possession limit, rather than prohibit the possession of winter Atlantic Coastal Management flounder in state waters, due to concerns about increased The Commission and the New England Fishery Management discard mortality and loss of fishery-dependent data. Council manage winter flounder with complementary Addendum I also specified management changes for the GOM management plans that regulate state and federal waters based stock, requiring states to reduce recreational fishing mortality on fisheries and the biology of winter flounder. The Council by 11% and established a 250 pound commercial trip limit. includes winter flounder as part of the Northeast Multispecies While the Council’s Amendment 16 prohibited retention of Fishery Management Plan (Groundfish FMP), which includes SNE/MA winter flounder, it also drastically changed federal several highly valuable commercial species, such as cod and groundfish management by establishing sectors. Prior to sectors, yellowtail flounder. Federal management focuses on the effort was controlled by restricting the number of days a vessel commercial fishery because the bulk of harvest in federal waters was allowed to fish each year. Sectors are a catch share program is from that sector. The Commission’s FMP is designed to protect where limited access permit holders formed “sectors” that spawning females (the most productive part of the population) receive an annual groundfish allocation based on the landings when they migrate inshore because they are particularly history of its members. Each sector creates its own rules to vulnerable to harvest when congregated for spawning. allocate catch to its members, avoid exceeding catch limits, and The Commission and Council use stock area-specific minimize discards which are counted against their allocation. management measures for both the recreational and commercial A common pool sub-ACL was created for vessels that did sectors of the fishery. The variability in biology, as well as not join a sector and their effort is controlled through days-at- current and historical exploitation patterns, necessitate the sea allocations. A state sub-ACL accounts for catch in state delineation of stock units where growth, seasonal movement, waters by estimating expected catch by state-permitted and female maturity schedules are similar enough to be modeled fishermen. (to page 33)

- 30 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 WHEN WILL WE LEARN (from page 16) Coastal states used 2013 as our friends on the coast, how was the baseline year while the bay your striper season so far this states used 2012. The reasoning year? Did you see a ton of fish in for this was based on a 14% the 28 to 32-inch range? As many reduction taken by the bay states as you would have expected in 2013. All states had to have knowing that 2011 was one the plans in place to meet these new best spawns on record? Probably goals by the beginning of the 2015 not. Why? Maryland killed way fishing season. more than they should have. The management decision It should not come as a huge was in response to a notable surprise that Maryland is one of decline in the spawning stock the states pushing the concept of biomass (SSB). The 2013 lowering reference points for Benchmark Stock Assessment striped bass management. The showed that mortality in 2012 was next benchmark stock assessment well above the target and had to be adjusted to account for the is due to come out in the next few months. Since the 2011-year increased harvest. class did not recruit as expected, there’s a very good chance As you can see from the chart, there has been a steady that the SSB level has dropped below the threshold, which decline in the SSB since 2006. We all hoped that Addendum IV would trigger a mandatory reduction in harvest. Rather than would stem the tide because the 2011-year class. As you can face that reduction, why not just lower the bar? In other words, see from the chart below, 2011 was an incredible year for the SSB won’t fall below the threshold if the threshold is spawning. As the decisions for reductions were handed down, lowered. we all knew that striped bass management depended on the In addition, the recreational harvest has to be further 2011-year class making it out to the ocean and becoming part of adjusted to account for changes in MRIP, the current method the SSB. The year classes of 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013, for estimating recreational catch. You see, the National Academy however, were well below average. This is not uncommon for of Sciences reviewed MRIP and found that it is chronically striped bass spawning. Environmental conditions dictate the underestimating spawning success. We had a cool, wet spring in 2011 and that recreational harvest. provided near perfect spawning. Here’s a snapshot Each state had the flexibility to come up with a season, from the NOAA creel, and size limit that would meet the reduction goals in 2014. webinar showing Unfortunately, Maryland decided to increase the size from 18 that we harvest even inches to 20 and keep the creel limit at two fish for recreational more striped bass anglers. Many of us knew this did not bode well for the 2011 than originally fish. To combat this decision, we started a movement in thought. The blue Maryland in early 2015 called “My Limit is One.” It was a line represents voluntary pledge to keep only one striper because moving the harvest after the NAS review. We are killing far more than we size up two inches was not going to get it done. thought. I must be taking crazy pills because all of this points We had won a hard-fought victory in getting the 2015 harvest to a questionable future for the stock, but we want to hammer reduction. However, the devil is in the details. The 2011-year down and harvest more? class was just getting to harvest size in Maryland. With all This is where we are. The states that did not meet their hopes resting on the 2011’s, did we do too little too late? goals want to change striped bass management forever, so In 2012, Maryland harvested about 262,000 fish or about 1.2 they can continue to harvest at unsustainable levels. This will million pounds. Remember, 2012 was the baseline for a 20.5% all come to a head at the February 2019 meeting of ASMFC. It is reduction. Those 2011 fish were becoming legal size, and we all going to take an uprising of anglers up and down the coast to knew that would be reflected in the harvest. Did we do enough stop the bay states from convincing everyone else to change in 2015 to meet the mandated reductions? Well, in 2016 we the reference points. As a Maryland resident, I hope you folks harvested almost 600,00 fish and 4.3 million pounds. (I think up North are reading this and getting very angry. That’s what we fell a little short). it is going to take to make sure we have abundant striped bass The instant reaction to this is logically, “Why isn’t Maryland populations for generations to come. being forced to reduce harvest again to meet the goals?” Well, striped bass are managed on a coast wide level. Our brothers About Tony Friedrich on the coast, with the exception of New Jersey (shocking I Tony Friedrich has worked in the field of conservation for know) all met or exceeded the reduction goals. So, when viewed over a decade. He was the founder of Lefty Kreh’s TieFest, the as total harvest, the coastal reductions did enough to offset largest independent fly fishing show in the Mid-Atlantic, and Maryland’s overage. the Executive Director for CCA Maryland for almost 8 years. You can takeaway a couple of things from this. First, for He lives on the Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

- 31 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 RECREATIONAL POACHING (from page 7) Any recommendations arising out of the workship will be poached out there, but it was hard to ignore the fact that there forwarded on to the Council for discussion at its December were a lot of tuna in the same size range being caught south of meeting, and possible adoption if such is deemed warranted. Long Island just then, and that quite a few of the boats that But private-boat anglers shouldn’t be breathing easy and caught them were moored only a mile or two from the restaurant thinking that they dodged a bullet this time, because their in question. widespread poaching is on the Workshop’s agenda, too. That sort of thing needs to stop, but so does the general And in their case it’s not, for the most part, the small-boat lawlessness that we see every time there’s a good tuna bite— inshore bottom fishermen that are at the core of the problem, whether bluefin, yellowfin or bigeye—when everyone from but a group of anglers that includes the big-boat, high-roller truck drivers to teachers to wealthy physicians and real estate crowd. It’s the people who call themselves “recreational folks load up on fish, then unload them on the market. Some of fishermen” but sell part or all of their catch, and are thus really the boats, particularly the large ones, do have commercial a subset of the commercial sector. However, they generally lack permits, but a lot of them don’t, and very few of them have all of commercial fishing licenses and, even if they have them— the required commercial gear. particularly in the case of offshore anglers who hold General And that’s a bad thing, because all of those hobby-caught Category Atlantic Tunas permits—they lack the safety fish, when they’re brought to market—whether through the equipment that the Coast Guard requires all commercial boats front door of a licensed dealer or the back door of a local shop to carry. or restaurant—are competing with legitimate commercial We’ve all seen it. There’s a good run of bluefin offshore— fishermen’s landings, driving down prices from folks who are even bluefin below the legal commercial size—and suddenly properly licensed and trying to market their fish in the right there’s a surge of boats running out of the inlet and putting the way. fish on ice. Legal limits often go out the window. Boats bring a Which is why the enforcement folks at the Philadelphia dozen large school fish back to the dock, and when somebody Workshop, and later the Mid-Atlantic Council, want to look at raises the bag limit issue, they point to the tuna’s finlets and the issue. say “Look! They’re yellow. These aren’t bluefin, they’re It’s a big ocean, and a long coastline. And there’s a long yellowfin, and we can take three apiece.” Whether they’re really maritime tradition of looking the other way when smugglers, that dumb, or just playing dumb, is open to question, but they’re and other miscreants, practice their trade. There are very few breaking the law just the same. law enforcement agents, and the deck is badly stacked against And there’s little question that they know that they can’t them. sell the fish and still be in accord with the rules. But illegal harvest steals fish from everyone, and Last year, I told the story of my wife and I going into a Bay most particularly, it steals from the honest folks that Shore restaurant, and the waiter trying to sell us a “special” go about their business, and their recreation, without bluefin dish. When I asked how big the tuna was, he quickly breaking the law. said “110 pounds,” a weight that was far to small for any fish For that reason, we can only hope that when the Workshop, that made the 73-inch commercial minimum size. The waiter said and then the Council, talk about the recreational poaching that the fish had come straight from Montauk, and maybe it was problem, they end up talking about some viable solutions, too. The RISAA Newsletter can use your help Many members have said that during the long winter months, they look forward to reading the RISAA newsletter. Everyone likes to read FISHING STORIES and see FISHING PHOTOS. How about a story? Any “fishy” story will do. Did something funny happen while fishing? Did one of your fishing days turn out to be special to you? Who taught you how to fish? Got a tip or trick you can share? Write it down and send it in.

P.O. Box 763 Londonderry, NH 03053 Tel: 603-434-4689 Fax: 603-432-3902 E-mail: [email protected] Manufacturer of Fine Terminal Tackle for the Check out our web site at Saltwater Fisherman www.seawolfetackle.com Snelled Hooks, Top and Bottom Rigs, Lures, Tubes, Owned and operated by Leadheads, Umbrella Rigs Richard and Judy Wolfe and more.... - 32 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 KAYAKS (from page 5) In attendance for this part of the outing was Dave Pollack, Sue Estabrook, Mona Rodriguez, Adam Perrot, Kirk Kamien, George (Ray) Clark and his son Adam Clark, Don Goodroe, Dave Krick, and myself. We brought hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken wings in buffalo and beer can seasoning, chips, cowboy caviar (aka southwestern bean salsa), hot dog and hamburger rolls, mustard, ketchup, 3 different types of ranch dressing, fresh RI mozzarella & tomatoes from Sue’s garden, pasta salad, potato salad, and many other items. THANKS A super huge shout out goes to: Mona Rodriguez - For all the food: hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken tender cutlets, “Cowboy Caviar,” utensils, napkins, paper towels, trash bags, water, soda, ice, coolers, tent, chairs, tables, and organizing the tailgate party! PS: Thank you for taking all the photos of us launching and later relaxing. Ray Clark - for the gas grill & tank of propane Sue Estabrook - for the fresh tomatoes, the RI mozzarella, vinegar, and olive oil. Thanks also for cooking all the food - hot dogs, chicken, and hamburgers. Adam Clark (Ray’s son) - extra pasta/macaroni salad, chips, and dip! Don Goodroe - For buying the beer and wine coolers. Narragansett Police Officer, Shield #38 - For taking all the food and sharing it with the Narragansett Fire Dept. [We didn’t get his name because his badge number is his name.]

We all ate and had a good time sitting around talking about WINTER FLOUNDER (from page 30) fishing. We also put the trash in its proper place and left the There are no accountability measures tied to the state sub- park exactly as we found it - clean! ACL, so if it is exceeded, other sub-ACL components may be reduced. In 2011, an updated stock assessment concluded that the GOM winter flounder stock was no longer experiencing overfishing. In response, federal action was taken to significantly increase the GOM stock ACL. As a result, the Commission implemented Addendum II, increasing the commercial trip limit to 500 pounds and removing the requirement that states reduce their GOM recreational catch by 11%. In 2013, the federal moratorium on SNE/MA winter flounder was lifted and the stock was allocated and ACL. In contrast, the 50 pounds commercial possession limit remained in state waters due to the Commission’s concern about the continued low abundance of SNE/MA winter flounder. Specifications for the 2018-2020 GOM and SNE/MA winter flounder fisheries were set via the Council’s Framework 57 action. The annual total ACL for the GOM stock was set at 428 mt, a 348 mt decrease from 2017. Likewise, the GOM state waters sub-component was decreased from 122 mt to 67 mt. For the SNE/MA stock, the total annual ACL was set at 700 mt, a 49 mt decrease from 2017. The state waters sub-component slightly increased from 70 mt to 73 mt.

For more information, please contact Megan Ware, Fishery Management Plan Coordinator, at [email protected]. - 33 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 Help Build Reef On the Cape

Dear Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association Members: v) The Cape Cod Salties Sportfishing Club has been incorporated since 1962, made up of family memberships of people interested in fishing in our salt water environment. Since its beginning the members have always advocated for conservation of the resources and worked 14’ Mirrocraft Deep-Vee, 1993. 1984 Holsclaw trailer. 2014 9.9 HP on many restoration and maintenance 4-stroke, pull start motor, brand new, never been in water. $2,500 projects such as herring runs, boat ramps, OBO. Call 401-762-9158 Cape Cod Canal cleanups, etc. We also ------sponsor monthly seminars at our meetings 19' Carolina Skiff in good shape, 2000, 198 semi-vee series, w/2003 to enhance members knowledge and abilities for the enjoyment 115 HP of salt water fishing, and provide 3 annual scholarships. Mercury OB. The Departments of Natural Resources of Harwich and Two new batteries, fish Yarmouth filed for joint 10 year permits from the Federal and finder, new Helix State Government to create and enhance fishing reefs in 5 Chirp/GPS/di/ Nantucket Sound. This resulted in the creation of the Harwich g2 w/chart Fishing Reef by placing the demolition material of the Harwich capacities, High School south of Harwich within easy reach of small and canvas bimini bop, Mel True ice chest. Approx. 940 hrs on OB. In slip large boats, completed in 2015. The multi-year permitting has usable for rest of the year. Asking $7,900 or reasonable offer. Call Ed at provided Yarmouth with an opportunity to add to the 40 year old 401-451-2464 Yarmouth Tire Reef 2.2 miles south of Bass River on 125 acres of mostly flat sand bottom. Only a portion of the permitted acreage has ever had reef material on it, yet it continues to draw sea life E-Z Loader trailer with new tires and lights. Measures 24’2” from and provide a well known destination for boaters of all kinds for tongue to last roller. Solid trailer ready to use. $1,600.00 . Call Scott at excellent bottom and sport fishing. 401-639-1310 or [email protected] The Salties became aware of this opportunity and of the cost associated with the deployment of suitable materials to enhance this existing fishing area. As a result of our research we formed, and have had approved JELLYFISH (from page 25) the Cape Cod Salties Foundation, Inc., a 501 C 3 public charity Do not rub the sting area because you could inadvertently which would allow us to seek donations and grants for this and distribute the venom further into the body. Then vinegar or other marine enhancements projects. While we were going thru evidence-based commercial product should be applied if there is the year long process of application and approval (granted March continuing pain. 28, 2018) we have accumulated the following approved material for future deployment to enlarge and enhance the Yarmouth Tire A new tool undergoing testing Fishing Reef: NOAA scientists are working on a way to forecast jellyfish, • 466 cubic yards of large granite (formerly from Bass River using the Chesapeake Bay as a testing ground, so residents and Railroad Bridge) (Towns of Yarmouth and Dennis) business owners can understand the probabilities of • 300 cubic yards of large boulders (Town of Yarmouth) encountering jellies based on changing environmental • 2000 cubic yards of broken up precast concrete (Robert conditions – such as salt concentration and temperature of bay Our and Acme/Shorey Companies) water. We have the same contractor lined up with excavators, huge More: Get your fill of facts about jellyfish biology and their barge with crane, rock trucks etc. It cost them $275,000 to deploy life historyoffsite link – including some more stunning close-up the Harwich reef. Our estimate is less as they had to truck all the photos. Go to oceanservice.noaa.org/facts/jellyfish.html. material to New Bedford, and we have arranged for loading material locally at the mouth of Bass River. Any contributions to the CC Salties Foundation, Inc. (CCSF, FLIPPIN’ OUT (from page 28) Inc.) are greatly appreciated and will be put to good use in support of this and other future projects. Thank you. Thank you to Captain BJ who provided an excellent fishing C. Randall Sherman, Chairman CCSF Inc. experience. We would definitely recommend him for anyone [email protected] considering a charter in the Newport area. 508 -280-8825 We also thank all of the RISAA charter captains who participate Sent donations to: in this program offering the RISAA membership an opportunity Cape Cod Salties Foundation, Inc. to get out on our local waters and enjoy a day of fishing. Box 1183, S. Dennis, MA 02660-1183 - 34 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 d Help support the Environment • Youth Fishing Programs • Fisheries Projects Available for (5-digit PASSENGER, COMMERCIAL or COMBINATION plates! * Registration must have 5 digits/letters or less only. If you have 6 digits on your current license plate, you first have to go to a R.I. Division of Motor Vehicles office in person and exchange your plate for a plate with 5 or fewer digits. Only after you 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 The one-time Plate Fee is $41.50 $21.50 of each order goes to plate production • $20 of each order goes to the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Foundation and is an IRS-approved tax-deductable donation for you. TWO WAYS TO ORDER YOUR PLATE • By Mail (form below) 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.

NOTE: All information is required to process. Please type or print

Name: ______Date of Birth: ______

Address: ______/ /

City: ______State: ______Zip: ______

Daytime Phone/Cell: ______Email: ______PLATE TYPE ( ) 01 PASSENGER 02 COMMERCIAL 39 COMBINATION

Current Plate Number (without hypens) PAYMENT TYPE CHECK : make payable to “R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation” CREDIT CARD ( type) AmEx Discover MC VISA Card Number: ______Exp. Date ______Security #______

Signature: ______Your signature authorizes the R.I. Saltwater Anglers Foundation to charge $41.50 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 - 35 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 - 36 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 7 Year Old Junior Member NICK DUDA with a 5.5 lb bluefish that he caught while fishing on his dad’s (Eric) boat, Outcast3, in the Sakonnet. This fish currently holds 2nd place in the Junior/Boat Division of the Yearlong DAVID HART-BEAL Tournament. caught his first false albacore from shore on September 22 at Narragansett on a 3 oz. epoxy jig. “Man, these fish put up a fight of a lifetime! This fish took so much line off, I started wondering,” he said.

ALEC GRANDE PAUL BOUTIETTE caught 32pound striper while fishing off Block Island on July landed this 18.75 lb, 35-inch monster cod on a small piece of 14. He was using eels for bait. clam while fishing at Cox’s Ledge on September 23 with his wife Pauline on thier 28’ Parker. - 37 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 - 38 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 THE WATCH (from page 3)

Peter Shelley, Senior Counsel at the Conservation Law If approved, the plan would allow construction and Foundation said “This decision guarantees that one of the most operation of up to 15 turbines that connect via a transmission fragile and scientifically important areas in the North Atlantic cable to a grid in East Hampton, New York - the east end of will be protected from destructive activities like oil drilling and Long Island. The project is approximately 19 miles southeast of industrial fishing.” Block Island. The notice will have a 30-day public comment Properly permitted recreational vessels are allowed to fish period closing on November 19. in the monument area, however, anchoring is not allowed. The Jeffrey Grybowski, CEO of Deepwater Wind said, “The monument proclamation states that, “recreational fishing may public will have the opportunity to review the Construction be continued in the Monument… if the Secretary concludes and Operations Plan and provide input to BOEM at three that such activity is consistent with the care and management community meetings to be held in East Hampton, Rhode Island of the objects within the monument.” and in Massachusetts, or through written comment. We’re on- track to begin construction on the South Fork Wind Farm once Survey positive for striped bass the EIS and permits are in-hand, by 2021, and to deliver clean The striped bass we catch in Rhode Island, Massachusetts energy to the South Fork starting in 2022.” and other northeast states often come from the Chesapeake An open house will be held at the Narragansett Community Bay and Hudson River areas. On Wednesday, October 17, the Center, 53 Munford Road, Narragansett, RI on Thursday, Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced results November 8, 2018. of its annual Young-Of-Year Striped Bass Survey in Chesapeake In New Bedford the meeting will be Wednesday, November Bay. The 2018 survey documented healthy reproduction of 7 at UMass Dartmouth School for Marine Science and striped bass with a young-of-year index of 14.8, higher than the Technology East, 836 South Rodney French Boulevard. Both 65-year average of 11.8. open houses are Striped bass spawn in from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 Chesapeake Bay and its p.m. with a tributaries each spring. presentation The juvenile striped bass followed by a survey is conducted question and annually to measure answer session spawning success and starting at 6:00 p.m. help predict future For copies of the abundance. The index plans and represents the average information how to number of young-of-year comment online, by – those hatched in the mail or for current year – striped bass information on the captured in each sample. Long Island meeting A lot can happen to visit https:// striped bass throughout www.boem.gov/ their lifetime including South-Fork/ . climate change impacts, In a second the supply of forage fish development last they eat, etc.; however, month, Secretary this is a great sign for the future of striped bass in Rhode Island Zink announced a and the east coast. much-anticipated wind auction in federal waters off the coast of Massachusetts which will take place on December 19. Ocean wind has big month, And, the third announcement pertained to the next steps to the first ever wind auction in federal waters off California. fishermen need to step up Now is the time for anglers to engage by reviewing these Last month U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke plans, attending public meetings and presenting their announced three major developments in American offshore wind comments on construction and operations plans as the South energy that set the table for fishermen engagement through Folk Wind Farm Environmental Impact Statement is being public comment on plans. Two of the announcements impact developed and reviewed. fishermen in Rhode Island and Massachusetts directly. RISAA plans to feature the three ocean wind farm The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) companies developing off Massachusetts and Rhode Island at published a Notice of Intent to prepare/review an Environmental their November 27 seminar at the West Warwick Elks Lodge, 60 Impact Statement (ESI) for the Construction and Operations Clyde Street, West Warwick. Visit www.risaa.org for information. Plan (COP) for the South Fork Wind Farm project off Rhode Island being developed by Deepwater Wind. - 39 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 One of the missions of RISAA is to represent the Only donations specifically made to the RISAA PAC can be concerns of the recreational community on regulatory and used. Under no circumstances can any membership dues legislative issues. That means that we have to deal with money - or any other contribution made to the Association - elected officials. be used for the PAC. It would be a violation of state election Fortunately, there are a number of legislators who have laws for any money from RISAA to be used for PAC purposes. worked hard on our behalf and others who support RISAA Also, all money received by the PAC must come from principles. We need to be sure those officials remain in individual donors. No contribution can be accepted from any office. organization or business interest. How it works. The RISAA PAC Committee first receives It is also important that legislators understand who we requests for contributions. If the PAC Committee determines a are. If we don’t advance our own causes, no one will do it candidate is pro-recreational fishing, pro-environment, etc. it can for us. approve a request, that recommendation is forwarded to the By law, our Association can not contribute funds to any RISAA Board of Directors which has the final vote on all PAC candidate, therefore we have established a legal, donations. Every PAC expenditure must pass this 2-step process. incorporated and registered Political Action Democracy is not a spectator sport. Committee which CAN make contributions on our behalf. To be effective, we must participate in the system. It has an independent treasurer and its own bank account.

With your help we can continue to work within the political system to safeguard the rights and traditions of recreational fishing 2018 PAC DONORS TO DATE

COPPER (up to $49) BRONZE ($50+) SILVER ($100+) GOLD ($200+) PLATINUM ($500+) - Leo Boliver Melvyn Blake Philip Capaldi Capt. Sandy Kane Garth Fondo Kenneth Cooper David Pollack Stephen Medeiros Richard Hittinger Harry Templeton Douglas Jost Anthony Rocha, MD

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

Please print: POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE. 1) Name: ______2) Phone: ______3) Address: ______no. street city state zip 4) Place of employment: ______(required by law) Address:______no. street city state zip 5) Enclosed is cash or check for: $10 $25 $50 $100 other____ (make payble to: RISAA PAC) 6) Donations can ONLY be accepted from individuals. No company or organization check can be accepted. (R.I. law) 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 Mail to: RISAA PAC, P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI 02816 - 40 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association (RISAA) believes in the sensible management of AFFILIATED fisheries and the conservation and restoration of all marine resources. RISAA has accepted a leader- ship role in order to provide a unified voice to preserve and protect the rights, traditions and future of ORGANIZATIONS recreational angling. In order to achieve these goals, it is important for organizations who have the same goals to join together, uniting their voices and votes for the good of present and future generations of anglers. Therefore, the RISAA is proud to be AFFILIATED with these respected organizations.

Blue Water

Buckeye Brook Anglers Coalition Blue Water Bowling Green Buckeye Brook Buzzards Bay Cape Cod Salties CT/RI Coastal Anglers Fishing Club Coalition Fishing Club Sportfishing Club Fly Fishers

Galilee

Tuna Club

Connecticut East Greenwich Galilee Jamestown Massachusetts Massachusetts Surfcasters Assoc. Yacht Club Tuna Club Striper Club Beach Buggy Assoc. Striped Bass Assoc.

Narragansett Narragansett Narragansett Pier Salt Water Surfcasters Newport Cty Salt Old Colony Pioneer Valley Sportfishing Assoc. Fishing Club Water Fishing Club Amphibians Boat & Surf Club

Plum Island Princeton R. I. Marine R. I. Mobile Rhody Slater Mill Surfcasters Fishing Team Trades Assoc. Sportfishermen Fly Rodders Fishing Club

St. John’s United Fly Tyers of Weekapaug Fishing Club Rhode Island Surfcasters

COALITION PARTNERSHIPS In order to promote fisheries management and conservation on a regional, national and international scale, the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association has associated with these organizations:

- 41 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 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 _ Pete’s Bait & Tackle...... 401-651-6178 DENTISTRY _ Massasoit Tool Company...... 800-648-6050 Member: Raymond Miclette (Woonsocket, RI) Exquisite Smiles...... 508-761-5320 Member: Jim Jaques (East Greenwich, RI) 341 Burnside Ave, Woonsocket, RI Member: Dr. James Phelan (S. Attleboro, MA) Stock/distribute 3M coated abrasives Quaker Lane Bait & Tackle.....401-294-9642 www.exquisite-smile.com ACCOUNTING _ Member: Mike Bestwick (North Kingstown, RI) ENGINEERING _ Disanto, Priest & Co...... 401-921-2035 4019 Quaker Lane, North Kingstown RP Engineering, Inc...... 401-885-7255 Member: Raymond Marchak (Warwick, RI) Quonnie Bait & Tackle...... 401-637-7184 Member: Richard Pastore (N. Kingstown, RI) www.disantopriest.com Member: Peter Silva (Charlestown, RI) Environmental, structural, civil and marine Medical-Dental Consultants...401-943-2200 5223 Old Post Rd, Charlestown ENGRAVING & ETCHING _ Member: Ryan J. Holzinger, CPA, MSA, MST Saltwater Edge...... 401-842-0062 Ron Nalbandian...... 401-377-4688 www.meddentconsultants.com • Cranston, RI Member: Peter Jenkins (Middletown, RI) Westerly, RI 401-932-3890 Roger H. St. Germain, CPA.....401-334-1848 76 Valley Rd, Middletown,RI saltwateredge.com Shop/mobile ser. - glass, wood, stone, metal Member: Roger H. St. Germain, CPA, MST Snug Harbor Marina...... 401-783-7766 ENTERTAINMENT _ www.stgermaincpa.com • Lincoln, RI Member: Al Conti (Wakefield, RI) The Sleepster...... 401-862-0981 ATTORNEYS _ www.snugharbormarina.com Member: Harold J. Hemberger (Johnston, RI) Robert A. Brazil, Esq ...... 802-424-1404 The Tackle Box...... 401-736-0605 Stage hypnotist, parties, events, fund-raisers Star Theater Bldv, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 Member: Tom Giddings (Warwick,RI) ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES _ www.rabrazil.com [email protected] 443 West Shore Rd, Warwick, RI Alliance Environmental Group 401-732-7600 Henry M. Clinton, Esq...... 215-309-5567 Watch Hill Outfitters...... 401-596-7217 Member: Richard C. Hittinger (Warwick, RI) Law Office of Henry M. Clinton, LLC Member: Mike Wade (Westerly, RI) Envir assessment, compliance, clean-up svcs Phila. PA [email protected] 157 Main St. • www.watchhilloutfitters.com ESTATE APPRAISERS/CLEAN-OUTS _ Michael R. DeLuca, Esq...... 401-274-6644 BOAT CANVAS _ Estate Services of RI...... 401-789-3646 Gidley, Sarli & Marusak, L.L.P. Jackpot Enterprises...... 401-596-4089 Member: George Lovesky (Wakefield, RI) 1 Turks Head Pl, Ste 900,Providence,RI 02903 Member: Cathy Muli (Westerly, RI) www.estateservicesofri.com All over RI. Paul James Garlasco, Esq...... 860-350-4409 zippers, windows, repairs FINANCIAL SERVICES _ 83 Park Lane Rd, New Milford, CT 06776 BOATING NEWS _ Ameriprise Financial...... 508-497-8931 [email protected] New England Boating...... 508-789-6708 Garth Fondo (Hopkinton, MA) James T. Marasco, Esq.....www.jmarascolaw.com Member: Tom Richardson (Mattapoisett, MA) Certified Financial PlannerTM 617 Smith St., Providence 401-421-7500 www.newenglandboating.com Financial Engines...... 401-921-3331 118 Pt. Judith Rd, Narragansett 401-789-1800 BOAT SALES _ Christian Grundel, CFP (Warwick, RI) Mitchell S. Riffkin, Esq...... 401-732-6500 Inland Marine, Inc...... 401-568-0995 email: [email protected] 631 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, RI 02886 Member: Ross Lemieux (Chepachet, RI) Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC...... 401-848-9949 Joseph J. Roszkowski, Esq...... 401-769-3447 Boat sales, service and repairs James Tollefson, CFP, VP-Investment Officer Justice of the Peace MarineMax...... 401-886-7899 [email protected] 1625 Diamond Hill Rd, Woonsocket, RI 02895 Member: Derek Leigh (Warwick, RI) FIREARMS SCHOOLS _ Sammartino & Berg...... 401-274-0113 New-used-brokerage. MarineMax.com American Firearms School 508-695-5869 Member: Andrew Berg, Esq. (Providence, RI) Ocean House Marina...... 401-364-6040 Member: Matthew Medeiros (N.Attleboro) AUTOMOTIVE _ Member: Rob Lyons (Charlestown, RI) www.AmericanFirearmsSchool.com RISAA disc. Moore’s Motor Service...... 401-821-4050 Hydra-Sports, Steiger Craft, Maritime Skiff FISHING APPAREL _ Member: Clarence Moore (Coventry, RI) Petzolds Yacht Sales RI...... 401-846-8484 Linesider Marine Specialties..401-439-5386 487 Washington St, Coventry, RI Member: Joe Nadeau (Charlestown, RI) Capt. Eric Gustafson (Block Island,RI) RC Auto Repair...... 401-615-9924 Edgewater Boats&Brokerage www.petzolds.com Angling apparel. 10% off to RISAA members. Member: Raymond Vincent, Jr. (Coventry, RI) South Shore Dry Dock Marine.508-636-9790 FISHING CHARTERS _ General auto repair. 10% off labor to members. Member: Capt. Jason Powell (Westport, MA) Big Game Sportfishing...... 401-243-7046 Star Service Auto/Marine...... 401-821-9887 www.southshoredrydock.com Capt. Brian Bacon (Snug Harbor, RI) Member: Jay Starziano (Coventry, RI) Striper Marina...... 401-245-6121 www.biggamefishingri.com 10% discount parts/labor to RISAA members Member: Capt. Alfred Elson (Barrington, RI Booked Off Charters...... 401-741-2580 BAIT & TACKLE _ www.stripermarina.com Capt. Tony Guarini (Wakefield, RI) Block Island Fishworks...... 401-466-5392 CHIROPRACTOR _ bookedoffcharters.com Member: Chris Willi (Block Island, RI) Pruitt Chiropractic...... 401-847-8889 Capt. Bruce Sportfishing...... 860-235-6095 10% off bait/tackle to RISAA members Member: Dr. Craig Pruitt (Middletown, RI) Capt. Bruce Millar (Groton, CT) Breachway Bait & Tackle...... 401-364-6407 www.pruittchiropractic.com www.captainbrucesportfishing.com Member: David Hess (Charlestown,RI) COMPUTERS _ Capt. John Boats...... 508-746-2643 166 Charlestown Beach Rd, Charlestown Computer & Network Services..401-921-4288 Capt. Bob Avila (Plymouth, MA) Bucko’s Tackle Service...... 508-674-7900 Member: Bob LeBlanc (Warwick, RI) www.captjohn.com Fishing at Stellwagen Bank Member: Michael Bucko (Fall River, MA) 10% off all labor; $25 off complete custom sys. Capt. Sheriff’s FishingChartersRI.com Saltwater rods, reels, tackle, reel & rod repair CONSTRUCTION _ Capt. John Sheriff (Charlestown, RI) Lucky Bait & Tackle...... 401-247-2223 Bryan Couture Construction...401-792-3672 www.FishingChartersRI.com - 401-450-2549 Member: Lorraine Danti (Warren, RI) Member: Bryan Couture (Narragansett, RI) Carol J Charters...... 401-207-6947 www.luckybait.com discount to RISAA members Concrete flatwork, patios, driveways, floors Capt. Paul Johnson, Sr. (Wakefield, RI) Misquamicut Bait & Tackle...... 401-322-7297 CUSTOM RODS _ www.caroljcharters.com Member: Tony Pocchia (Westerly, RI) Crafty One Customs...... 401-297-6062 East Coast Charters...... 401-338-1752 Discount to RISAA members Member: Ralph Craft (Portsmouth, RI) Capt. Jack Sprengel custom rods/repairs www.craftyonecustoms.com www.eastcoastchartersri.com

- 42 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 Fin Reaper Charters...... 401-255-9630 Tossing Chunks Charters.....508-345-4022 HOME IMPROVEMENT __ Capt. Bruce Weinstein (Snug Harbor) Capt. Jack Tobin (Barrington, RI) Home Repair/Remodeling...401-295-4205 B.I.stripers tuna-shark-cod finreapercharters.com www.tossinchunks.com Member: Donald Smith (N. Kingstown,RI) Fishnet Charters...... 508-951-9991 Westport Pt.Fishing Charters.508-375-3464 No job too small. References provided Capt. Mel True (Freetown, MA) Capt. James Turner (Westport, MA) Pro Touch Home Repair...... 401-450-6087 www.MelTrue.com WestportPointCharters.com Member: Robert Carey (S.Kingstown, RI) Fish’n Tales Adventures...... 401-619-4431 FISHING NEWS _ Specializing in small home repairs Jeffrey O’Brien (Newport, RI) Coastal Angler MagazineRI..203-321-7635 ICE CREAM _ Party boat. FishnTalesAdventures.com Lisa Danforth • 25% RISAA discount Frosty Freez...... 401-846-1697 Flippin Out Charters...... 401-529-2267 [email protected] Member: Mark Pachico (Middletown,RI) Capt. B.J. Silvia (Portsmouth, RI) FISHING PRODUCTS _ 496 Main Rd, Middletown -10% RISAA disc www.flippinoutcharters.com 9er’s Lures...... 508-822-9650 INSTRUCTION _ Frances Fleet...... 401-783-4988 Member: Eric Ferreira (Taunton, MA) Boatwise Marine Training..800-698-7373 Capt. Frank Blount (Pt. Judith, RI) www.9erslures.com Member: Capt.Rick Kilborn (S.Hampton,NH) www.francesfleet.com/ A & S Tackle...... 508-679-8122 Recreational & Captains license classes Here We Go Again Charters.....401-965-0445 Member: Steve Abdow (Swansea, MA) JANITORIAL SERVICES _ Capt. Al Passarelli (Jerusalem, RI) www.astackle.com Fleming’s Cleaning Service.800-605-7334 [email protected] Androd Custom Fishing Rods.508-399-7837 Member: Tim Fleming (Auburn, MA) Hooked On A Feeling Charters..401-788-3638 Member: Robert Andrade (Seekonk, MA) Complete commercial janitorial services Capt. Joe Bleczinski (Narragansett, RI) www.androd.com JANITORIAL SUPPLIES _ Sailing from Pt. [email protected] Bill Hurley Lures...... 413-584-2421 Land-Tek Maintainence...... 508-252-3795 Irish Jig Charters...... 401-499-9182 Member: Bill Hurley (Northampton, MA) Member: Ken Anderson (Rehoboth, MA) Capt. Dave McCormick (Narragansett,RI) www.codandstriperlures.com supplies, paper products, cleaning equipment www.IrishJigCharters.com DC’s Custom Wood Plugs....401-465-5338 JEWELRY- CHAINS, WHOLESALE _ Island Current Fleet...... 917-417-7557 Member: Dick Cournoyer (Woonsocket, RI) Garlan Chain Co...... 508-316-3881 Capt. Chris Cullen (Sailing from Snug Harbor) Email: [email protected] Member: David Gariepy (N. Attleboro) www.islandcurrent.com • $10 RISAA discount Fishdoc Custom Plugs...... 401-829-2967 www.garlanchain.com * Wholesale Only Lady K Charters...... 239-565-2949 Member:Richard Mandeville (Greenville, RI) JEWELRY - SEA GLASS _ Capt. Steve Babigian (Snug Harbor, RI) Built for the fish! www.customstriperlures.com A Day At The Beach...... 401-487-5302 www.ladykcharters.com Jackpot Digger Jigs...... 401-596-4089 Member: Michael McHenry (Tiverton, RI) Linesider Fishing Charters..401-439-5386 Member: Cathy Muli (Westerly, RI) seaglassjewelrybyjane.com 10% RISAA disc Capt. Eric Gustafson (Block Island, RI) www.jackpotdiggerjigs.com for stripers & more KAYAKS _ www.linesiderfishing.com Lonely Angler Lures...... 207-348-5605 The Kayak Centre of R.I.....401-295-4400 Maverick Charters...... 401-640-0865 Member: John Wilson (Deer Isle, ME) Member: Jeff Shapiro (Wickford, RI) Capt. Jack Riley (Snug Harbor, RI) Custom wood lures - www.lonelyangler.com www.kayakcentre.com RISAA discounts www.maverickchartersltd.com Millard Wire Company...... 401-737-9330 LAND SURVEYOR _ No Fluke Charters...... 401-480-3444 Member: Dan LaCroix (Exeter) Alfred W. DiOrio, RLS, Inc..401-377-8124 Capt. David Monti (Warwick, RI) Inconel Wireline for trolling“The Real Deal” Member: Alfred DiOrio (Ashway, RI) www.NoFlukeFishing.com Phase II Lures...... 203-226-7252 [email protected] Surveyor/land use consultant Northeast Boat & Kayak Charters.. Member: Dick Fincher (Westport, CT) Waterman Engineering Co...01-438-5775 Capt. Jerry Sparks (CT/RI) 413-219-8455 Hand-carved lures that catch fish. www.phaseiilures.com Member: Richard Lipsitz (E. Providence) www.sparksfish.net • 15% RISAA Discount SurfHog Lure Co...... 401-864-6069 watermanengineering.net On The Rocks Charters...... 401-359-3625 Member: Bob Neilson (North Kingstown, RI) LASER ENGRAVING______Capt. Rene Letourneau (Pawtucket, RI) www.surfhoglureco.com Kell-Strom Tool Company....800-851-6851 www.ontherockscharters.com Terminal Tackle Co...... 631-269-6005 Member: Robert Kelly (Wethersfield, CT) Pura Vida Charters...... 401-601-5499 Member: John Richy (Kings Park, NY) General machine and laser marking Capt. Jonathan Lewie (Narragansett, RI) www.terminaltackleco.com or call for catalog LAWN CARE______puravidacharters.org ThomCat Fluke Rigs...... 401-828-9424 Green Wizard Landscaping.401-480-1875 Relentless Charters...... 617-462-7885 Member: Thom Pelletier (Coventry, RI) Member: Dan Patrick (Johnston, RI) Capt. David Waldrip (Green Harbor, MA) [email protected] Landscaping, maintenance, trim, fish ponds www.relentlesscharters.com FURNITURE _ Ocean State Lawn Service....401-732-8182 Restless Fishing Charters....401-728-2081 Eco-Friendly Custom Furniture...... 401-439-0564 Member: Paul Karcz (Warwick, RI) Capt. Rich Templeton Member: Steven Sabella (Westerly, RI) Fertilization programs. 10% RISAA discount Email: [email protected] www.sabellastudio.com MACHINING______Seven B’s V...... 401-789-9250 GREEN ENERGY _ Hartwell Mfg. Co...... 401-567-7720 Capt. Russ Benn (Pt. Judith, RI) Viridian Energy...... 401-602-6578 Member: Jerry Finkle (Chepachet, RI) www.sevenbs.com Member: Daryll Issa (Portsmouth, RI) Custom machining small parts, plastics/metal Skinny Water Charters...... 401-465-8751 www.virdian.com/northeastgreenpower Volpe Tool & Die, Inc...... 401-580-1063 Capt. Jim Barr (Newport, RI) GRILLING______Member: John Volpe (Blackstone, MA) www.skinnywaterchartersri.com Gilchrist’s GreatGrates...... 401-932-7397 Custom machining of all materials Snappa Charters...... 401-782-4040 Member: Tim Gilchrist (Charlestown, RI) MARINE ELECTRONICS _ Capt. Charlie Donilon (Wakefield, RI) www.greatgrate.com 15% RISAA discount Seaport Communications.....401-783-4778 www.snappacharters.com HARBOR TOURS _ Member: Manuel Medeiros (Narragansett, RI) StuffIt Charters...... 401-764-5141 Newport Yacht Charters...... 857-998-1337 Sales - Service - Installation Capt. Joe Pagano (Scituate, RI) Member: Capt. Charles Jenison (Newport,RI) MARINE FABRICATION _ www.stuffitcharters.com - RISAA discount www.newportyachtcharters.net Seaward Boatworks...... 401-739-5286 Teezer77 Charters...... 401-524-7239 Member: Rick Cataldi (Warwick, RI) Capt. Eric Thomas (Portsmouth, RI) Aluminum fabrication and canvas work www.teezer77.com

- 43 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 MARINE REPAIR _ Sankey Real Estate...... 774-254-1565 Conanicut Marine...... 401-423-7158 Member: Eric Meyer (North Attleboro, MA) RISAA Members: Member: Bull Munger (Jamestown, RI) www.BaystateHomeSales.com www.conanicutmarina.com World.net Real Estate Group.401-323-2424 Have your business Snug Harbor Marine Serv Ctr.401-789-7680 Member: Charles Petras (Cumberland, RI) Member: Joe Mollica (Wakefield,RI) [email protected] or www.TeamPetras.com Engine, marine, rod/reel repairs. Full service. REAL ESTATE APPRAISERS _ or service listed by MARINE SUPPLIES _ Lawrence A. Rainey...... 401-439-9083 The Ship’s Store & Rigging..401-683-0457 Certified commercial & residental calling 401-826-2121 Member: Nick DeRosa (Portsmouth, RI) RISAA discount boating supplies, etc. www.shipstoreri.com White Appraisal Co., Inc...... 401-738-9500 MARINE SURVEYING _ Member: S. Keith White, Jr, SRA,SRPA Down River Marine Surveyor..401-364-6400 Certified commercial/residential - Warwick,RI Member: Roe LaBossiere (Charlestown, RI) RESTAURANTS _ Master Marine Surveyor Luigi’s Restaurant...... 401-861-3850 SUPPORT MARINE TOWING SERVICES _ Member: Ralph Battista (Johnston, RI) Safe/Sea...... 401-295-8711 357 Hartford Ave, Johnston. Fine Italian food Member:Capt. Phil LeBlanc (Wickford, RI) Slice Of Heaven...... ,...... 401-423-9866 THE www.safesea.com Member: Steven Liebhauser (Jamestown,RI) TowBoatUS/New Bedford...... 508-990-3997 32 Narragansett Ave, Jamestown, RI COMPANIES Member:Capt. Clint Allen (Dartmouth,MA) ROD & REEL REPAIR _ www.boatus.com Beavertail Rod And Reel...... 401-215-5062 MORTGAGE/HOME LOANS _ Member: David Morton (N. Kingstown, RI) ON THESE Pawtucket Credit Union...... 401-541-7003 www.beavertailrodandreel.com Member: Brad Sudol (East Greenwich, RI SOLAR CONSULTANT _ PAGES purchase/finance great rates. c:401-465-7345 RGS Energy...... 401-315-2529 Seacoast Mortgage...... 401-487-2322 Member: Gil Bell (Charlestown, RI) Member: Paul Kennedy (Narragansett, RI) Free solar estimate. [email protected] They are all Email: [email protected] TAXIDERMIST _ ORTHODONTICS _ Larry’s Licensed Taxidermist..508-883-8190 RISAA Members! Ferry Orthodontics...... 401-781-2900 Member: Larry Hayward (Blackstone, MA) Member: Dr. Mike Ferry (Cranston/Wakefield) TREE SERVICES _ www.ferryortho.com CUTTING EDGE TREE...... 401-439-7999 OUTBOARD MOTORS _ Member: Kevin Robishaw (W. Greenwich, RI) IMPORTANT C.L. Marine...... 401-732-6764 Lic/insured arborist. All apects tree care/maint. PHONE Member: Gene Steger (Warwick, RI) TROPHIES/PLAQUES _ Mercury sales,service,parts www.clmarineri.com Crown Trophy...... 401-231-0070 NUMBERS OUTFITTERS Member: John Kubaska (Smithfield, RI) Al Gadoury’s 6X Outfitters...406-600-1835 www.crowntrophy.com RHODE ISLAND Member: Allan Gadoury (Bozeman, MT) World Trophies Co...... 401-272-5846 DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL Guided fly fishing trips. www.6xoutfitters.com Member: Peter Evangelista (Providence, RI) MANAGEMENT PAINT & SUPPLIES _ www.worldtrophies.com ICI Paints...... 401-751-7300 VETERINARIANS _ Boat Registrations Member: Bob Marco (Pawtucket, RI) Richmond Veterinary Clinic..401-539-2683 222-6647 We sell interior and exterior paint Member: Robert Bolton (Wyoming, RI) General Information PEST CONTROL _ Practice for small animals 401-222-6800 Pest Patrol...... 401-463-3116 VIDEO PRODUCTIONS _ Member: Robert Todisco (Johnston, RI) On The Outs Productions...... 401-300-7258 ENFORCEMENT Full pest management. 24/7 wildlife services Member: Don Coyne (Saunderstown, RI) 401-222-2284 PHYSICIANS _ www.fishingtheoceanstate.com Anthony V. Rocha, M.D...... 401-438-2780 WASTE & RECYCLING SERVICE _ After Hours Hotline 387 Waterman Ave, E. Providence, RI 02914 WasteXpress, LLC...... 401-464-6400 401-222-3070 Family and internal medicine Member: John Souto (Cranston, RI) PRINTING _ res/comm containers www.wastexpressri.com Tiffany Printing Co...... 401-828-5514 WINES _ Marine Fisheries Division Member: Christopher Couture (Coventry,RI) High Hook Oregon Wines.....413-218-0638 401-423-1923 www.tiffanyprinting.com Member: Mark Seymour (Leverett, MA) REAL ESTATE______www.fishhookvineyards.com U. S. COAST GUARD Home Smart Professionals...401-578-9809 Member: Al Iacobbo (East Greenwich, RI) Castle Hill, Newport e-mail: [email protected] 846-3675 Keller Williams...... 401-785-1700 Enforcement Member: Julie LeBlanc (Cranston, RI) 435-2300 [email protected] cell: 401-837-9050 Lighthouse RealEstate Group.401-935-9612 Hazardous Dischanges Member: Will Litvin (Wakefield, RI) 435-2300 [email protected] www.lighthouseri.com Pt. Judith Station 789-0444

- 45 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 2018 OFFICERS and BOARD OF DIRECTORS President...... Stephen Medeiros...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 1st Vice President..... Capt. Richard Hittinger... [email protected]...... 401-739-1875 2nd Vice President.... Capt. David Monti...... [email protected]...... 401-480-3444 Secretary...... Travis Barao...... [email protected]...... 401-301-7944 Treasurer...... Peter O'Biso...... [email protected]...... 401-783-2364 Sergeant-At-Arms.... Richard Reich...... [email protected]...... 401-742-2020 Board Member...... Gary Johnson...... [email protected]...... 401-787-5981 Board Member...... Douglas MacPherson..... [email protected]... 401-241-2364 Board Member...... Robert Murray...... [email protected]...... 401-378-5895 Board Member...... Roger Tellier...... [email protected]...... 401-398-2670 Board Member...... Diane Valerien...... [email protected]...... 401-523-9050 Board Member...... Greg Vespe...... [email protected]...... 401-662-5573 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Stephen Medeiros...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 RISAA CONTACTS By-Laws Committee...... Robert Blasi, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-527-5157 Charities Committee...... Tom Meade, Chair...... [email protected] ...... 401-741-0362 Charter Trips Committee...... Hal Gibson, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-524-9035 Dealer Discount Program...... Gilbert Bell, Coordinator...... [email protected]...... 401-315-2529 Education Committee...... Greg Vespe, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-662-5573 Elections Committee...... Gisele Golembeski, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-766-8409 Entertainment Committee...... Lynn Medeiros, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 Financial Review Committee...... Raymond Marchak, CPA...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 Fly Fishing Committee...... David Pollack, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-749-5379 Foundation Committee...... Michael Warner, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-364-0027 Fund-Raising Committee...... Lawrence Hill, Chair...... [email protected] ...... 774-280-0155 Kayak Committee...... David Pollack, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-749-5379 Legislative Committee...... David Monti, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-480-3444 Artificial Reefs Subcommittee..... Richard Hittinger, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-739-1875 Menhaden Subcommittee...... David Monti, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-480-3444 Public Access Subcommittee...... Peter Jenkins, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 Merchandise Committee...... Gary Johnson, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-787-5981 Political Action Committee...... Stephen Medeiros, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 Newsletter...... Stephen Medeiros, Editor...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 Saltwater Fishing Show...... Stephen Medeiros, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-826-2121 Scholarship Committee...... David Michel, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-952-8697 Surfcasters Committee...... Richard Heffernan, Chair...... [email protected].... 401-742-9888 Tag & Release Program...... Robert Murray, [email protected]...... 401-378-5895 Tournaments Committee...... John Volpe, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-580-1063 Welcome Committee...... Edward Kearney, Chair...... [email protected]...... 401-397-4513 Legal Counsel to Board of Directors.....Mitchell S. Riffkin, Esq RISAA Office: (401) 826-2121 • FAX: (401) 826-3546 Mail Address: P.O. Box 1465, Coventry, RI 02816 WWW.RISAA.ORG New England Saltwater Fishing Show: www.nesaltwatershow.com

- 45 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 RECREATIONAL SALTWATER FISHING REGULATIONS Rhode Island Connecticut Massachusetts New York AMERICAN 9” min • 25 fish 9” min • 25 fish 9” min • 25 fish 9” min • 25 fish EEL no closed season no closed season no closed season no closed season NYC special regs 15” min 15” min 15” min 15” min BLACK SEA Jun 24 - Aug 31 - 3 fish 5 fish 5 fish Jun 23-Aug 31 • 3 fish BASS Sep 1 - Dec 31 - 7 fish May 19 - Dec 31 May 19 - Sept 12 Sep 1 - Dec 31 • 7 fish no min size • 15 fish BLUEFISH no min size • 15 fish no min size • 10 fish no min size • 10 fish no closed season no closed season no closed season max 10 less that 12" no closed season South & east of Cape Cod 22" min • 10 fish COD 22" min • 10 fish 22 " min • 10 fish 22" min • 10 fish no closed season no closed season no closed season no closed season *North of Cape Cod see MADMF regs South of Cape Cod HADDOCK 19" min • no limit 18" min • no limit 18" min • no limit no closed season no closed season 18" min • no limit no closed season no closed season 19" min • no limit 19" min • no limit no min size • no limit 19" min • no limit POLLOCK no closed season no closed season no closed season no closed season 9" min • 30 fish 9" min • 30 fish May 1 to Dec 31 May 1 to Dec 31 10" min • 30 fish 9" min • 30 fish SCUP 8" from shore at Conimicut Park, India Point Park, Stone 8" at certain May 1 to Dec 31 May 1 to Dec 31 Porgy Bridge/Tiverton, East & West shore sites (charter rules differ) (charter rules differ) Walls/Narragansett, Ft. Adams, (charter rules differ) Ft Wetherill, Rocky Pt

28" minimum • 1 fish 28" min • 1 fish STRIPED no closed season 28" min • 1 fish 28" min • 1 fish 34" & larger must have no closed season no closed season no closed season BASS right pectoral fin removed SUMMER 19" min • 4 fish 19" min • 6 fish 17" min • 5 fish 19" min • 4 fish FLOUNDER May 4 - Sept 30 May 1 - Dec 31 May 22 - Oct 9 May 4 - Sept 30 Fluke 17" certain shore sites 16" min 16" min Long Island Sound Apr 15 to May 31 • 3 fish Open seasons: Jun 1 to Jul 31 • closed 16" minimum • 3 fish 16" min TAUTOG Aug 1 to Oct 14 • 3 fish Apr 1 - Apr 30 • 2 fish no closed season Apr 1-Apr 30 • 2 fish Oct 15 to Dec 31 • 5 fish Jul 1 - Aug 31 • 2 fish Oct 11-Dec 9 • 3 fish max 10 fish per boat Oct 10 - Nov 28 • 3 fish 1 fish 16" min • 1 fish 16" min • 1 fish 16" min • 1 fish WEAKFISH 10" filleted • 12" dressed no closed season no closed season no closed season Squeteague no closed season 12" min • 2 fish North of Cape Cod March 1 to Dec 31 12" min • 8 fish 12" min • 2 fish 12" min • 2 fish *All of Narragansett Bay, April 1 to Dec 31 no closed season WINTER Potter Pond, Point Judith April 1 to May 30 South of Cape Cod FLOUNDER Pond and the Harbor of Refuge is closed to winter 12" min • 2 fish flounder fishing March 1 - Dec 31 See a violation? Report it!

CTDEP CONSERVATION POLICE RIDEM ENFORCEMENT DIVISION MADEP ENFORCEMENT DIVISION 860-424-3333 401-222-3070 (24 hrs) 800-632-8075 - 46 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association is a nonprofit Association established to provide a forum for saltwater anglers; to provide education to members concerning fishing techniques and overall enjoyment of fishing; to foster sportsmanship; to support marine conservation and the sound management of fisheries resources; and provide a unified voice to preserve and protect the rights, traditions and the future of recreational fishing.

PRINT Name: ______Age: _____ Spouse Name: ______First Middle Initial Last Address: ______City: ______State: ____ Zip:______Put me on RISAA e-mail list: Home Phone: ______Cell Phone: ______E-mail:______ yes no thanks

Occupation: ______Employed At: ______You can register them as Junior Members (free) Children (up to 17 yrs):______ no thanks yes (complete below) INFORMATION Prefer to fish from ( check all that apply): Rocks & Piers Charter Boats Party Boats Fly Fishing Surfcasting Other ______ Own Boat: Length:___ ft Maker/Type:______Boat Name:______Docked at:______How did you hear about RISAA? Friend Tackle Shop Facebook News article RISAA Newsletter Fishing Show Web site Saw Advertisement at - Internet Magazine Newspaper TV

CHECK TYPE TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP Regular Adult: $50/year (additional members, immediate family, same household: 2nd = $45, 3rd = $40) Multiple Years (save $5/year): ___$90 (2 yrs), ___ $135 (3 yrs), ___ $180 (4 yrs) Senior (Age 65+): $25/year - requires date of birth: ______/ / Life Member: $500 (one time, single payment) Student (college/trade school): $25/year (max 6 yrs) -requires copy of current student ID card Junior Member: Free (Up to 17 years. Requires parent membership or a RISAA sponsor) Junior's Name: (print)______Age:_____ Date of Birth: ______/ / Junior's Name: (print)______Age:_____ Date of Birth: ______/ / RISAA Sponsor (if parent not a member): ______Relationship: ______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 front Name on card (print): ______Card Number: ______

Meetings are held on the last Monday of each month at the West Warwick Elks in West Warwick, RI at 7:00 pm. (attendance not required). Membership benefits include monthly seminars • fishing tournaments • Mail to: R.I.S.A.A. • fishing trips for members only • monthly news magazine • discounts at tackle shops and marine dealers • P.O. Box 1465 • social events • college scholarships • adds your voice to fisheries management and conservation issues. Coventry, RI 02816 - 47 - R.I.S.A.A. / November, 2018 P.O. Box 1465 NOVEMER, 2018 Nonprofit Organization Coventry, RI 02816 U.S. Postage Paid Coventry, RI CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Permit No. 247

The Voice of Southern New England Fishermen