Coast Guard to intensify efforts to stop offshore poaching of Atlantic Striped Bass

The U.S. Coast Guard is scheduled to intensify efforts to stop offshore poaching of Atlantic striped bass this winter.

In an effort to ensure the health of the striped bass population, the Coast Guard is working to raise awareness of the federal regulations stating Atlantic striped bass may not be caught, harvested, or possessed in the Exclusive Economic Zone. The EEZ begins three nautical miles from shore and extends out to 200 nautical miles.

The Coast Guard is conducting outreach to educate the public on federal regulations governing the Atlantic striped bass fishery, as well as safety precautions for the winter boating season. If a person is caught fishing for or in possession of striped bass while in the EEZ, he or she is subject to civil fines.

The Coast Guard has established an Atlantic Striped Bass Reporting Hotline at 757-398-6399. The public is encouraged to report any suspected poaching activity to the hotline. Calls should include a description of the activity, those involved, the location, and the time of the suspected offense. Such information greatly increases the effectiveness of law enforcement operations.

“The Coast Guard is conducting outreach to local fishing communities, educating boat operators about these federal regulations,” said Lt. Noel Johnson, the enforcement chief at Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads. “By protecting the Atlantic striped bass population, we can ensure future generations access to this valuable resource.”