It looks like flounder regulations for Delaware are changing, based on the latest meeting, which was last night. An estimated 100 people were present, and about 20 people spoke in support of adopting Delaware’s Option 5, which is a limit of 4 fish no shorter that 19.5 inches in length with no closed season.
At the meeting, no attendees offered comments that supported any other options. According to attendees, citizens voiced many concerns in terms of conservation, killing undersized fish, the validity of the stock estimates, the economic impact on for-hire vessels and tackle shops, being able to fish for flounder when they can get time and opportunity to fish.
Some acknowledged the constraints imposed on DNREC and the driving force behind the options
being presented, i.e.: the mandate in Magnuson-Stevens to rebuild the flounder stock by 2013.
You can still voice your opinion and concerns on any of the Options. Public comment will be accepted until 4:30 PM on April 2. Write to DNREC or send an e-mail to rick.cole@state.de.us with your opinion.
A report on the hearing, including the written/email comments will be made to John Hughes. He will announce his decision on the size/bag/season summer flounder regulation for 2008 on April 15. It will be published in the Delaware Register May 1 and become effective May
11.
If the size increases to 19.5 ” you can count on 60 to 70% less money from people heading to your state for fishing……………………..When did you last catch a 19.5 inch flounder in delaware?……………how much $ were invested in fishing in Del waters to try to catch a 19.5 inch “trophy” flounder…………………..What the H^$^$^%ll is wrong with you people????????????????? what is the mortallity rate of those undersize fish that r returned to the bay/ocean????????????????????……….why not a 15″ limit with 2 fish daily……………………..we all could enjoy a taste of flounder and not hurt the popolation……………….Damn TROPHY FISHERMAN………Get a grip……………………
The size limits are set too high.I caught a lot of flounder the last three seasons only to be allowed to keep three. It is very frustrating and expensive.Please consider allowing us to keep at least one @ 18 inches for dinner.Thank you