Do we need to be concerned?

SAN FRANCISCO

Whale entanglements up, groups report

The Associated Press

SAN FRANCISCO >> Conservation groups are urging California officials to consider measures to prevent whale entanglements in fishing gear.

 In a letter Tuesday to state fish and wildlife officials, Earthjustice, the Center for Biological Diversity and Oceana cite data from the National Marine Fisheries Service that shows 30 different whales were confirmed to have been entangled in fishing gear off the West coast in 2014. That’s nearly double the number in 2013.

 The groups are urging state officials to consider closing fisheries in areas where whales are feeding and reducing the number of vertical fishing lines, among other measures.

 State Department of Fish and Wildlife spokeswoman Jordan Traverso said the agency is aware of the issue, agrees that it warrants priority attention and is already engaged in consultations with various stakeholders.


Are they talking commercial, sport or both?  I don't think my vertical line pose much of a problem, but will we be included in any new regulation?

I doubt they are referring to sport fishing lines (hook & pole).  Generally the entanglements happen with crab pots, which falls under "fisheries". 

I doubt they are referring to sport fishing lines (hook & pole).  Generally the entanglements happen with crab pots, which falls under "fisheries".

That makes sense.  Thanks.

Doesn't matter. "They" will somehow twist this to make sure it affects the recreational angler, as well.

"They" usually do not differentiate between the two.

the use of the word "lines" does seem strategically inclusive.
 I know it is a common nautical word for rope, but I don't think the gray area is at all an accident.

the use of the word "lines" does seem strategically inclusive.
 I know it is a common nautical word for rope, but I don't think the gray area is at all an accident.

That's because there is only 1 "rope" on a boat ... the rest are "lines".  Boaters have to change 'normal' names of everything to something more exotic    Toilet ... nope, its a head.  Pulley ... nope, its a block.

I have trouble taking issues seriously when it includes any of these jokers:

Earthjustice, the Center for Biological Diversity and Oceana

It's basically the equivalent to an article in the National Enquirer...maybe I'll read it, but I know it's gonna be total BS.

I have trouble taking issues seriously when it includes any of these jokers:

Earthjustice, the Center for Biological Diversity and Oceana

It's basically the equivalent to an article in the National Enquirer...maybe I'll read it, but I know it's gonna be total BS.

You read the Enquirer???   Dick!

Well, considering that the whale population has rebounded so much lately, I'm surprised only a doubling of entanglements. percentage wise it should be greately reduced.   of course they will try to blame us poor little old kayak fisherpersons.   its always our fault

Common core will solve it.

Common core will solve it.