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, they are 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.”