An Ethical Angler:
1. Supports and promotes conservation efforts
2. Uses light touch techniques to conserve habitat and resources
3. Keeps no more fish than needed for consumption. Never sells, trades or wastes fish that are retained
4. Practices effective catch and release of fish not kept for consumption or that are prohibited to retain
5. Doesn’t pollute: recycles and disposes of trash
6. Learns and obeys fishing and boating regulations
7. Practices safe angling and boating by following the law and using common sense to prevent injury
8. Doesn’t spread exotic plants, animals or release live baits into waters
9. Respects resources, respects public and private property and respects others
10. Promotes ethical sportfishing by sharing knowledge, skills and ethics
11. Leaves fishing grounds as clean or cleaner than found

 


Posted on Wed Nov 02 2011, 12:53PM    Print   Email    

 


Posted on Mon Aug 15 2011, 10:04AM    Print   Email    

 

The Sportfishing Conservancy applauds responsible recreational fishing taking center stage on a global scale

Experts agree on the first international guidelines on responsible recreational fisheries

An International Expert Consultation convened by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) agreed today on the first international guidelines on responsible recreational fisheries. The Technical Guidelines, which will be brought to the attention of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI), support sustainable recreational fisheries in context of the FAO Code of Conduct of Responsible Fisheries and were prepared following calls from FAO member states for guidance on recreational fisheries as a rapidly rising form of use of wild fish populations.

"The Sportfishing Conservancy has helped lead the way for responsible recreational fishing through our "Blue Footprint" programs like our "Rec-Tech" environmentally friendly fishing techniques, our "Toss-Back Tuesdays" and "Toss-Back Tools," said Tom Raftican, president of The Sportfishing Conservancy.   "Clearly we are not alone at taking the high road when asking anglers to step up to better conservation and it is an honor to further work on guidelines with the international experts assembled by the United Nations," he added.

Developed through a consultative process, these guidelines translate the relevant provisions of the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries into specific advice for sustainable recreational fisheries and are directed at fisheries policy-makers and managers, other decision makers, NGOs, recreational fishers and other stakeholders.

The guidelines cover all types of recreational fisheries (harvest-oriented angling, total catch-and-release fishing) in all environments (marine, coastal and inland) and are global in scope. They highlight ways towards achieving sustainable fisheries using a range of tools and approaches in managing recreational fisheries. Aquatic stewardship is the overarching concept required; other management approaches referred include the ecosystem approach, the precautionary approach and adaptive management.

The guidelines acknowledge and specifically emphasize the immense benefits of recreational fisheries and the important contribution of recreational fishers to maintaining aquatic biodiversity and conserving endangered species, their habitats and aquatic ecosystems in general. While the interests of recreational fisheries should be considered in all decisions affecting aquatic ecosystems, potential impacts of recreational fisheries on aquatic ecosystems must also be addressed. The guidelines look at real or likely damage induced by non- or badly managed recreational fisheries to fish stocks, biodiversity and the aquatic environment.

"The Sportfishing Conservancy will continue to work with the scientific and administrative communities to help tailor guidelines that work with our domestic fisheries," said Raftican.  "The United Nations and FAO involvement supports the efforts of US anglers who believe that the light touch of recreational fishing provides opportunity both today and for tomorrow," he added.

The Expert Consultation, composed of 20 experts from academia, policy and NGOs, was hosted by the Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries 5-6 August 2011 after the Sixth World Recreational Fishing Conference (Humboldt-University of Berlin) August 1-4 2011. The Technical Guidelines will be published by FAO and available online.  Contact The Sportfishing Conservancy at www.sportcon.org.

Posted on Thu Aug 11 2011, 04:48PM    Print   Email    

 
Scientists and the marine conservation community get a close look at refined recreational fishing techniques, “Rec-Tech”, at the National Marine Sanctuaries Foundation’s Capitol Hill Oceans Week (CHOW). Washington, D.C. – “Capitol Hill Ocean Week”  (CHOW) offered the perfect venue for The Sportfishing Conservancy to unveil a groundbreaking new initiative that partners science and conservation with a goal of enhancing not only the numbers of wild fish, but specifically managing for bigger fish.  CHOW is a special event in Washington DC, hosted by the National Marine Sanctuaries Foundation, that provides scientists and the conservation community a chance to get together with fishermen and others, then share their work with those who can help put it in play. 
“Ask most recreational fishermen about their impact on the environment and they quickly point out that they consider themselves conservationists and with their light touch, have little or no adverse impact on marine resources.  However, if you ask a marine biologist the same question the response is about the cumulative affect of such a huge numbers of fish hooks in the water.  Clearly recreational impacts on marine resources are misunderstood by both fishermen and by fisheries scientists”, said Tom Raftican, president of The Sportfishing Conservancy.  “Truth be told, large numbers of recreational fishermen can have dramatic negative impacts on resources, however by employing simple changes in their approach to fishing these same individuals may instead play a vital role in the sustainability of at-risk resources”, Raftican added.   
Recreational fishing enjoys an important social and economic role across the country, according to US Fish and Wildlife numbers, recreational marine fishermen spend more than 85 million days on the water fishing each year.  It’s important to understand that while each angler may only catch a fish or 2, when you do the math, the results are huge. “Asking scientists to work with us to help define specific recreational fishing techniques designed not only to exert minimal impacts on marine resources, but also to increase the number of big fish is an exciting concept”, said Raftican.  “The Sportfishing Conservancy’s recreational techniques, or “Rec-Tech” was designed to not only increase fish populations, but also ensure that big fish survive. Largemouth Bass anglers have known for decades that big fish are too valuable to catch only once and “Rec-Tech” has simply asked the scientists to help carry this concept to sportfishing’s marine counterparts”, he added. “Rec-Tech helps change the way fishermen define a successful day on the water away from the old “ I caught a limit” to one of increased adventure and opportunity that big fish provide”, said April Wakeman, Programs Coordinator for The Sportfishing Conservancy.   “Rec-Tech” employs tools and techniques that not only improve sustainability, but also make fishing more fun and exciting”, she added. The Sportfishing Conservancy works to empower sportsmen to fulfill and celebrate their commitment to their sport and to real world conservation.
“I want to make sure that my son and daughters have the same chance to tackle record fish that I have enjoyed”, said new mom and The Sportfishing Conservancy’s Conservation Director, Jenny Armstrong.  “Scientists and anglers working together not only make this possible, they are making it fun.  We are finding ways to target and treat fish differently and these challenges really add to the sport”.
Capitol Hill Ocean Week takes place in early June and is sponsored by the National Marine Sanctuaries Foundation.  For information about The Sportfishing Conservancy’s “Rec-Tech” program go to rec-tech.org, or jenny@sportcon.org.


Posted on Wed Jun 22 2011, 07:37PM    Print   Email    

 


Posted on Thu May 05 2011, 12:38PM    Print   Email    

 


Posted on Thu May 05 2011, 12:37PM    Print   Email    

 


Posted on Thu May 05 2011, 12:36PM    Print   Email    

 

Posted on Wed Mar 23 2011, 08:06AM    Print   Email    

 

The Sportfishing Conservancy again showed its support for California's Fish and Game Wardens by purchasing 100 Warden Stamps.  SportCon wrote the language that created the stamp in 2009 which provides funds to the wardens for training and equipment that isn't included in the severely cut Fish and Game budget.  Warden Stamp sales in 2010 exceeded $60,000.  That isn't a large number but the equipment purchased was much appreciated.

Jenny Armstrong, SportCon's Conservation Officer, again will be visiting clubs to talk about the Warden Stamps and other Sportfishing Conservancy programs.  She is often accompanied by a warden (often both the two and four legged variety) to get the story out about what difficulties the wardens experience in the field.  These stories leave us amazed at what our wardens do.

Warden Stamps can be purchased using an on line form found at or at Department of Fish and Game offices.  Jenny usually has a supply of stamps available for purchase when she visits the clubs.  You can arrange a visit by calling Jenny at (949) 813-7831.

Posted on Fri Mar 04 2011, 04:43PM    Print   Email    

 

TREANOR REPORT AUTHOR WAKEMAN DISCUSSES NEED FOR REFORM

SACRAMENTO, CA:  The Joint Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture held the 38th Annual Fisheries Forum on February 16.  Chaired by Assemblyman Wesley Chesbro this included a review of the Department of Fish and Game and Fish and Game Commission.  Secretary of Natural Resources John Laird reported that one of his top priorities is implementation of AB 2376 - DFG Strategic Vision which was based in part of the Treanor Report authored by the retired Executive Director of the Commission Bob Treanor and The Sportfishing Conservancy's April Wakeman.

Ms Wakeman then testified as to the problems faced by the Department including increased mandates with no additional funding or resources to fulfill these mandates.  The goal of the legislation was to take a good look at what the department has been asked to do and how to do it.  "While both the commission and department do incredible work with their limited resources, it's not fair to either the employees or to our resources to endlessly add responsibility without the necessary resources to fulfill those responsibilities," observed Wakeman.

Although some groups had argued that perceived private funding would somehow 'taint' the results of the hearings, a provision for private funding was not part of the legislation. 

CONTACT:
Jay Geer MGA, Inc. (562) 467-2020
Tom Raftican The Sportfishing Conservancy (805) 895-3000

Posted on Tue Feb 22 2011, 02:37PM    Print   Email    

 

"Mom, can we please go fishing?"  I can't imagine I will ever tire of hearing those words from my kids. Like teaching a kid to ride a bike or hit a baseball, taking a child fishing is an experience that every child should participate in.  There is no better time to introduce the wonders of our natural environment and at the same time show them how to respect and protect what they will come to enjoy so much.

First off, a few tips on tackle/gear that will make your child's experience (and yours) more enjoyable.

1) Pick a season when there are fish to be caught! Don't take a kid out for the first time when the water is freezing and the fish have lockjaw.  Kids like action and whether they are fishing for mackerel, bass, bonita, or tuna, try and find a species where they will stay busy catching.
2) Use a rod/reel that is easy for them to operate.  A spinning reel is the easiest for beginners but as they advance, find a conventional reel that is a level wind so they do not have to worry about winding the line on evenly.  As cute as the Barbie and Snoopy rods are and are functional for the little ones, as your kids get older they should graduate up to more functional gear. 
  An young boy's best Yellowtail catch caught on "kids" gear but still functional for his age. A 6'10" Ugly Stick and a Shimano Tekota 300 level wind w/ 50#Spectra and 25# mono top shot.
3) Have lots of snacks and maybe even a few "gadgets". Inevitably kids will lose some interest when the bite slows or when traveling from spot to spot. Have snacks on hand for them to munch on. Also, in our hi-tech world, sometimes a little technology can go a long ways. A DVD player or Nintendo DS might give you some peace and quiet even if it's just for a little while.
4) Seasick meds. Check with your child's doctor on dosages for prescription strength meds and the ear patch. Also, Bonine (non drowsy) and Dramamine both make a children's formula.
5) Teach them about the environment. When out on the water with your kids, this is the perfect opportunity to show them how the boat operates, basics of the electronics, and of course the animals in the marine environment. If you have a fish/animal guidebook, let the kids look through it and help them identify the different species that you might encounter throughout the day.

Secondly and most importantly, this is the best and most influential time with your kids to teach them about conservation.  Teach your kids to only keep what you will eat. Teach them about their responsibilities to learning the regulations, handling fish properly, measuring fish to make sure they are legal, and releasing the ones that are not.  It is an opportunity to show a child that not every fish needs to be killed and that you can enjoy the catching of fish while still releasing a healthy fish to the environment.
  A healthy fish released back to the environment

Whatever you do, don't forget the camera!  Take pictures of your child's catch even if it is just a mackerel.  They will have so much pride in their accomplishment and want to show it off to all of their friends. 

Hopefully these tips will result in an enjoyable day on the water for both yourself and the child. Remember that kids are like sponges and they soak up what they learn from adults. Let's teach them right from the start so they will be responsible stewards of our marine environment for years to come. 

As always, if you have any questions about this article or The Sportfishing Conservancy please feel free to email me at -email- or call at (949)813-7831.

Posted on Tue Jan 25 2011, 09:03AM    Print   Email    

 

"Mom, can we please go fishing?"  I can't imagine I will ever tire of hearing those words from my kids. Like teaching a kid to ride a bike or hit a baseball, taking a child fishing is an experience that every child should participate in.  There is no better time to introduce the wonders of our natural environment and at the same time show them how to respect and protect what they will come to enjoy so much.

First off, a few tips on tackle/gear that will make your child's experience (and yours) more enjoyable.

1) Pick a season when there are fish to be caught! Don't take a kid out for the first time when the water is freezing and the fish have lockjaw.  Kids like action and whether they are fishing for mackerel, bass, bonita, or tuna, try and find a species where they will stay busy catching.
2) Use a rod/reel that is easy for them to operate.  A spinning reel is the easiest for beginners but as they advance, find a conventional reel that is a level wind so they do not have to worry about winding the line on evenly.  As cute as the Barbie and Snoopy rods are and are functional for the little ones, as your kids get older they should graduate up to more functional gear. 
  An young boy's best Yellowtail catch caught on "kids" gear but still functional for his age. A 6'10" Ugly Stick and a Shimano Tekota 300 level wind w/ 50#Spectra and 25# mono top shot.
3) Have lots of snacks and maybe even a few "gadgets". Inevitably kids will lose some interest when the bite slows or when traveling from spot to spot. Have snacks on hand for them to munch on. Also, in our hi-tech world, sometimes a little technology can go a long ways. A DVD player or Nintendo DS might give you some peace and quiet even if it's just for a little while.
4) Seasick meds. Check with your child's doctor on dosages for prescription strength meds and the ear patch. Also, Bonine (non drowsy) and Dramamine both make a children's formula.
5) Teach them about the environment. When out on the water with your kids, this is the perfect opportunity to show them how the boat operates, basics of the electronics, and of course the animals in the marine environment. If you have a fish/animal guidebook, let the kids look through it and help them identify the different species that you might encounter throughout the day.

Secondly and most importantly, this is the best and most influential time with your kids to teach them about conservation.  Teach your kids to only keep what you will eat. Teach them about their responsibilities to learning the regulations, handling fish properly, measuring fish to make sure they are legal, and releasing the ones that are not.  It is an opportunity to show a child that not every fish needs to be killed and that you can enjoy the catching of fish while still releasing a healthy fish to the environment.
  A healthy fish released back to the environment

Whatever you do, don't forget the camera!  Take pictures of your child's catch even if it is just a mackerel.  They will have so much pride in their accomplishment and want to show it off to all of their friends. 

Hopefully these tips will result in an enjoyable day on the water for both yourself and the child. Remember that kids are like sponges and they soak up what they learn from adults. Let's teach them right from the start so they will be responsible stewards of our marine environment for years to come. 

As always, if you have any questions about this article or The Sportfishing Conservancy please feel free to email me at -email- or call at (949)813-7831.

Posted on Tue Jan 25 2011, 09:03AM    Print   Email