Housatonic Striped Bass Moratorium Bill: DEEP Weighs-In

Connecticut Representative Proposes Striped Bass Moratorium on the Housatonic River

Introduced by Representative Brandon Chafee (D), H.B. 6248‘s stated purpose is “To restore the population of striped bass in the lower Housatonic River.” by establishing a moratorium on fishing for striped bass.

ASA Opposes Moratorium

In a letter to the Committee, the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) voiced its opposition to the bill, stating that the proposed moratorium “would have little impact on this recovering population” while “unfairly penalizing local, law-abiding anglers.”

Read the full letter from Mike Wayne, ASA Atlantic Fisheries Policy Director, here: ASA Letter to the Environmental Committee

DEEP Weighs-In On the Striper Moratorium Bill

During the hearing on Monday, March 3rd, Connecticut DEEP Bureau of Natural Resources Chief Justin Davis provided input on H.B. 6248. Davis stated that striped bass population concerns in the Housatonic River are “primarily an enforcement challenge” and that “post-release mortality is very low.” He emphasized that the primary issue is “a persistent problem with illegal harvest.”

Rather than a fishing moratorium, Davis advocated increased enforcement efforts and stricter penalties for illegal harvest. He noted that a moratorium would “deprive that recreational opportunity from law-abiding anglers while likely not providing much additional deterrent” to illegal fishing activities.

Focus Shifts to Enforcement

Following discussion on H.B. 6248, the hearing turned attention to H.B. 6250, a related bill proposing the expansion of Connecticut’s environmental conservation officer workforce. The bill’s statement of purpose is to “provide for a full staff of environmental conservation officers necessary for the enforcement of environmental regulations.”

When asked by Rep. Pat Callahan (R) if the state has enough conservation officers, DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes replied that Connecticut currently employs 62 full-time officers, supplemented by a seasonal resource officer program that increases enforcement capacity during the peak season. She then passed the question to Colonel Chris Lewis, director of law enforcement for environmental conservation police who answered “Yes, more officers are needed” going on to highlight that current resources are spread thin.

How to Stay Informed on H.B. 6248

Anglers and stakeholders can track the progress of H.B. 6248 by visiting the Connecticut General Assembly Bill Status page.

The full public hearing, including discussions on H.B. 6248, can be watched here: Connecticut Environmental Committee March 3rd Public Hearing. (Discussion on H.B. 6248 begins at 34:00.)

Housatonic Striped Bass Moratorium Bill: DEEP Weighs-In