Commercial anglers and fish buyers in Vermont are pushing back against proposed fishing regulations that they believe will hinder their ability to buy and sell local fish. The new rules, which include a statewide ban on commercial crappie fishing and a requirement for commercial anglers to register and report their annual catch to the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife, have sparked controversy among stakeholders.
Fisheries biologist Jud Kratzer defended the ban on commercial crappie sales as a measure to prevent illegal activity among anglers. However, commercial anglers argued that the ban is unnecessary and that law enforcement should handle any violations. The proposed rules also include stricter bag limits for panfish on inland lakes and ponds, new daily limits on steelhead and trout in Lake Memphremagog, and restrictions on certain rivers to protect spawning fish.
Additionally, fish buyers expressed concerns that the new reporting requirements will dissuade casual commercial anglers from selling their catch. They highlighted challenges like fewer young people fishing commercially, shorter ice fishing seasons, and the presence of cormorants as factors impacting their businesses. The proposed regulations were prompted by a petition signed by over 200 individuals calling for a statewide ban on commercial fishing.
Public hearings are being held to gather feedback on the proposed rules, with a deadline for public comment set for April 7. The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board is expected to vote on the regulations on April 30. The outcome of these deliberations will have significant implications for the commercial fishing industry in Vermont.
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