I’m more concerned about enforcing Commercial Fishing Regulations in Federal Waters, especially Foreign Countries. I was working Offshore (Gulf of Mexico) in the 70s and Fishing Boats from Asian countries mostly Vietnam, would come to the Platforms and catch Red Snapper. These boats had about 20 reels that were (about the size of a small bicycle rim) mounted to the side of the boats. Each reel had at least a dozen hooks. It was nothing to see them reel in 5 at a time per reel. One crew would remove fish and re-bait while the other crew lowered the lines and reeled them back in. Once the fishing slowed down they would move to another Platform.
I’m not sure how the operation worked but they must have had a larger boat or ship they used for a hub or base.
Now in State Waters (3 miles or less), recreational Fisherman can only keep 2 Red Snapper per person. This is all because of over fishing.
I’m more concerned about enforcing Commercial Fishing Regulations in Federal Waters, especially Foreign Countries. I was working Offshore (Gulf of Mexico) in the 70s and Fishing Boats from Asian countries mostly Vietnam, would come to the Platforms and catch Red Snapper. These boats had about 20 reels that were (about the size of a small bicycle rim) mounted to the side of the boats. Each reel had at least a dozen hooks. It was nothing to see them reel in 5 at a time per reel. One crew would remove fish and re-bait while the other crew lowered the lines and reeled them back in. Once the fishing slowed down they would move to another Platform.
Now in State Waters (3 miles or less), recreational Fisherman can only keep 2 Red Snapper per person. This is all because of over fishing.