High Fish Populations Allow DEC To Loosen Regulations

Albany, NY (WIBX) - The Department of Environmental Conservation is loosening its recreational fishing regulations this year, as populations of several fish have increased.

Assistant Commissioner for Natural Resources, Kathy Moser, says the larger numbers allow for better takes, encouraging anglers "to get out on the water and enjoy the increased opportunity... to bring home freshly caught fish."

Fish affected by the new regulations include summer flounder, scup and black sea bass.

For summer flounder, the season will now begin on May 1st and run until the end of September. Anglers are allowed to take 4 fish, with a minimum size of 19.5 inches.

Scup season also begins on May 1st, but will run until the end of the year. Fishers may take 20 fish with a length longer than 10.5 inches. Those on licensing fishing and charter vessels are allowed 20 fish longer than 11 inches, but may take 40 during September and October.

Lastly, black sea bass season will begin on June 15th, extending until the end of the year. 15 fish may be taken, with a minimum size of 13 inches.

The new rules go into effect immediately and will extend for 90 days. Proposals have also been filed to adopt the new rules past the initial 90-day period.

The full text can be found on the DEC's website here.