Coast Guard Announces Dredging Operations in Baltimore Inner Harbor

     Baltimore, Md. -- Mechanical dredging operations are scheduled to occur in the Baltimore Inner Harbor from the western limit of the northwest harbor and the west wall on the Inner Harbor from February 27 until June 11. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM channels 13 and 16. Mariners are cautioned to stay clear of dredge, booster, floating (pontoon) and submerged pipelines, barges, derricks and operating wires associated with dredging and marine construction operations.

     Operators of vessels of all types should be aware that dredges and floating pipelines are held in place by cables, attached to anchors some distance away from the equipment. Buoys are attached to the anchors so that the anchors may be moved as the dredge advances and the location of the submerged pipelines are marked by buoys on each side of the channel.

     Mariners are cautioned to strictly comply with the Inland Rules of the Road when approaching, passing and leaving the area of operations, and remain a safe distance away from the dredge, booster, buoys, cables, pipeline, barges, derricks, wires and related equipment. A NO WAKE transit is requested of all vessels passing the dredge and if necessary to clarify a SAFE PASSAGE contact the dredge on the appropriate VHF-FM channels. Chart: 12281.

Maryland Bill an Egregious Financial Assault on the God Given Rights of Struggling Families

Please read over the following bill. It is another example of the state of Maryland slowly killing the boating industry, this time catering to the interest of mega-yacht enthusiasts. The people penalized by this legislation are the struggling families that try to enjoy the waters of the Chesapeake Bay in their modest runabouts and small cruising boats. God gave us the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland wants to take it away. Please ask the DNR and state legislators to find a different solution to their ill-conceived fiscal policies.

http://mlis.state.md.us/2012rs/bills/hb/hb1307f.pdf

Senator Says DNR Should Manage Its Finances Better Before Hiking Boating Fees

From the Office of Sen. Nancy Jacobs:
———
Recreational boaters fill the beautiful waterways lining our state. Workboats bring in the crabs and oysters for which Maryland is famous. Annapolis is the sailing capitol of the world. But from Annapolis comes news that those who own a boat face paying a huge jump in licensing fees.

Currently, boaters pay $24 every two years for a license. Now, the fees will be based on boat size with most licenses costing five times more, about $125. Bigger boats could pay up to $700 more for two years.

The Department of Natural Resources explains it needs the higher fees because the Army Corps of Engineers will no longer pay to dredge a number of waterways. That is a critical task because boaters don’t want to be silted in and wait till high tide to get their boats out. The other reason for the hike is funds that used to come to DNR from boat sales have dropped by half due to the tough economy.

The proposed boat license fees will put us higher than Virginia where a three year registration at most is $45. In Delaware the highest fee for big boats is $60 a year.

It’s important to worry that this could put Maryland’s at a regional disadvantage and subject the boating industry to another economic hit.

There may be a false perception that boat owners in our state can easily afford a fee hike. But I think the majority of them are not well heeled and prioritize their spending to keep their love of boating alive.

Dredging and other waterway maintenance must be done. But it’s critical to point out that Governor O’Malley has raided the Waterway Improvement Fund, where boat license fees go in the past. Over $1 million dollars has been taken for other purposes. It’s hard to convince boaters to accept the giant fee hike when that happened and could happen again. Not to mention, boaters pay the gas tax at the dock but that money goes to fixing roads, not waterway improvements.

Also, a recent state audit of the Department of Natural Resources found careless stewardship of taxpayer funds. An employee credit card had questionable charges topping $71,000. A $1.7 million account wasn’t analyzed and DNR lost $30,000 in interest by missing a federal deadline.

The administration must do a better job of managing the public money before it comes begging for more.

MSSA Supporting a Bill to Prohibit the Use of Gill Nets in Maryland

Press release issued by the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association

      Annapolis, Md. -- The Chesapeake Bay is our state’s greatest natural resource and a national treasure. Because of its immense value to the citizens of our state and our economy, the region’s largest recreational fishing advocacy group, the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishing Association (MSSA), and Senator Kathy Klausmeier have joined forces to protect this great asset through the introduction of - Senate Bill 1032 – Prohibiting the use of gill nets for catching finfish within Maryland. "This bill is targeted at protecting jobs, our environment, and our citizen's ability to enjoy healthy natural resources," stated Dave Smith, the MSSA's executive director.

     Gill nets are entanglement nets that have made headlines for more than a decade due to their destructive impacts on our marine resources. The most recent headlines came last year where nearly 12 tons of illegally caught striped bass were pulled from the Bay forcing the Department of Natural Resources to temporarily shut down the netting season. These headlines follow previous incidents where 9.3 miles of illegal gill nets were found off of Rock Hall in 2010 and an eight year federal investigation yielded millions of pounds of illegally harvested fish from the Chesapeake watershed. "The time to protect our fisheries from this harmful gear-type is long overdue," Smith added.

     Currently, the state of Maryland allows gill nets, ranging in size up to 3,500 yards (1.98 miles) in length, to be drifted. "That is nearly half the length of the Bay Bridge" noted Smith. Gill nets are positioned vertically in the water column, taking advantage of current, tide, and the movement of marine life as they get tangled in the nets. Despite the inherent destructiveness of the legal nets, their use also provides cover for those who wish to fish illegally, making the gill net fishery difficult to manage. Gill nets have even been prone to abandonment and left to continue to their devastating harm to our treasure. Last year an abandoned net was found by a recreational angler, months after the rockfish gill net season had closed. It was over 600 yards long and had hundreds of pounds of decaying fish. Given that the Chesapeake Bay is home and the spawning grounds to the East Coast's most sought after saltwater sport fish, the striped bass or rockfish, and numerous other important fisheries including some endangered species, there is absolutely no reason to allow this gear-type in Maryland, according to the advocacy group.

     Economically, the Bill offers the protection of our resources to better secure the thousands of jobs provided to the state through both our recreational and commercial fisheries. Recreational fishing alone has a 1 billion dollar economic impact to the state of Maryland and provides nearly 10 thousand jobs. "This bill does not eliminate jobs, it protects them." Smith said.

     While the bill does eliminate one particular commercial gear-type, there are numerous other gear-types that watermen use to effectively and legally harvest fish, such as pound nets, fyke nets, haul seine, cast nets, and of course hook and line. Additionally, prohibiting gill nets only stands to ease management burdens on the Department of Natural Resources, who is facing a $3.2 million dollar deficit in 2013. "The DNR has introduced cost recovery legislation to make up a portion of the management costs, but there is still a long way to go" noted Smith.

     The MSSA believes that between the cost recovery and harmful effects gill nets have on our marine resources, prohibiting the use of gill nets seems like the logical step, a step that some other states have already implemented. “We understand that this is not an easy issue to handle. We applaud the Senator for stepping up and doing what is right for future generations and the vitality of Maryland’s marine resources”, Vince Ringgold said, President of the MSSA.

     Senate Bill 1032 – Prohibiting the use of gill nets for catching finfish within Maryland will be heard in the near future. The MSSA is encouraging everyone, regardless of fishing interest, to contact their legislators and tell them to SUPPORT SB 1032.

     If you would rather call your legislator, use the link below to find their phone number

FINDING YOUR LEGISLATOR
http://mdelect.net/

Maryland DNR Seeking More Free Fishing Sites

     Annapolis, Md. --  In an effort to increase interest in fishing, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources wants to establish one or two locations in every county where people can fish for free.

     State fisheries director Tom O’Connell said the bill (HB1305) in the General Assembly focuses on freshwater sport fishing. The free fishing sites would allow beginning anglers to try the sport for free before buying a license. The sites would likely be public ponds that hold sunfish and bass. Trout streams wouldn’t be included in the program.

     An annual freshwater fishing license costs Maryland residents $20.50. The state offers three days of free fishing a year. Free “fishing rodeos” are also hosted by private organizations throughout the state.

Daniel Sutherland, Boatyard Program Manager at CBMM Passes Away

Dan Sutherland at the transom of the skipjack Rosie Parks. Photo by David Harp, chesapeakephotos.com.

From Tracey Munson

Vice President of Communication

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

Dear Friends,

     It is with heavy hearts that we report Daniel Sutherland, our dear friend, and much admired boatyard program manager for the past five years, passed away unexpectantly on Saturday, February 18, 2012 of apparent heart failure. He was 47 years old.
     Those who had the privilege of knowing Danny--especially those who worked with him or learned small boatbuilding from him, always will remember Danny as an enormously talented craftsman, a patient teacher who generously shared and demonstrated his skills with old and young alike, and, fundamentally, just a great guy who was fun to be around and who never took himself too seriously.
     Danny had a national reputation as a boatbuilder and was one of the very best judges of antique and classic boats in the country.
     According to CBMM's Assistant Curator of Watercraft Richard Scofield, Sutherland was the world's foremost expert on the boats of the famous 19th Century designer and builder, J.H. Rushton, from whose designs Danny built over 50 boats during his lifetime. Danny was recognized by those who know wooden boats well as unsurpassed when it comes to building small, lapstraked boats.
     A memorial service and celebration of Dan's life will be held at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD on Saturday, March 10, at 2:00 pm, beginning at the Small Boat Shed and continuing to the Museum's Boat Shop.
     In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations in memory of Daniel Sutherland be made to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, where they will be placed in CBMM's Boat Building Apprentice Endowment Fund. Donations may be sent to CBMM, PO Box 636, St. Michaels, MD 21663 with a notation that the donation is being made in memory of Dan Sutherland.
     Our heartfelt condolences go out to Dan's family, his two children, Storm and Sky, and his long-time companion, Patti Diamond.

Tracey

ASMFC Atlantic Striped Bass Management Board Initiates Addendum to Address Illegal Striped Bass Harvest

     Alexandria, Va. -- The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Atlantic Striped Bass Management Board has initiated an addendum to address illegal striped bass harvest. The board’s action is in response to recommendations of the Interstate Watershed Task Force (IWTF). The IWTF conducted a multi-year, multi-jurisdictional investigation on illegal striped bass harvest within Chesapeake Bay which resulted in over $1.6 million dollars in fines levied against 19 individuals and three corporations for more than one million pounds of illegal striped bass harvested estimated to be worth up to seven million dollars.

     The covert investigation determined that some Virginia commercial fishermen were illegally harvesting fish during the Potomac River Fisheries Commission’s closed season, as well as illegally harvesting oversized fish from Virginia waters during the spawning season. Additionally, some Maryland commercial fishermen were taking advantage of loopholes in the state tagging system to falsely report large numbers of smaller, legal-sized fish, allowing them to obtain more tags and exceed quota limits. The investigation also found some wholesale dealers were complicit through false record-keeping, false check-in, and knowingly buying illegal or untagged fish.

     The investigation revealed that the current control measures for regulating striped bass harvest could be improved. The IWTF and the Commission’s Law Enforcement Committee (LEC) recommended increasing penalties for illegally harvested fish and implementing a uniform commercial tagging system among all states with commercial striped bass fisheries.

     The IWTF and LEC acknowledge the efforts of Maryland, Virginia and the Potomac River Fisheries Commission in initiating measures to deter the activities detected by the Task Force. Maryland has reformed its commercial fishing management rules, including the suspension or revocation of commercial licenses from violators and increasing the penalty for commercially fishing without a license. The Potomac River Fish Commission has permanently revoked the commercial licenses of the violators identified from the investigation, while Virginia suspended the commercial licenses of identified violators for two years, the maximum amount allowed by Virginia law.

     The board will consider potential management options for inclusion in the Draft Addendum for public comment at the Commission’s Spring Meeting in May. For more information, contact Kate Taylor, Fishery Management Plan Coordinator, at ktaylor@asmfc.org or 703.842.0740.

Menhaden PID Now Available for Comment

     Arlington, Va. -- The Public Information Document (PID) for Amendment 2 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Menhaden is now available for public comment and review on the Commission’s website at http://www.asmfc.org/speciesDocuments/menhaden/fmps/Amend2PID_DraftForPublicComment.pdf.

     As the first step in the development of Amendment 2, the PID presents the current status of the fishery and resource, and solicits public input on which major issues and alternatives should be included for consideration and analysis in Draft Amendment 2.

     The PID’s primary focus is to initiate discussion on the timing and implementation of achieving the new fishing mortality threshold (F = 1.32) and target (F = 0.62) reference points recently adopted through Addendum V. Since fishing mortality in 2008 (the latest year in the assessment) is estimated at 2.28, overfishing is occurring, however, the stock is not overfished.

     The goal of the new reference points is to increase abundance, spawning stock biomass, and menhaden availability as a forage species. The PID also seeks public input on a more timely and comprehensive catch reporting system, and scopes potential options to be used in managing Atlantic menhaden commercial bait and reduction fisheries as well as recreational fishery.

     Alongside the development of Amendment 2, the peer-reviewed stock assessment will be updated with data through 2011 to provide a more recent estimate of fishing mortality. Results of the assessment update will be used to estimate the harvest reductions needed to achieve the new threshold and target fishing mortality rates. Therefore, preliminary harvest reductions are provided in the PID but will likely change based on the results of the stock assessment update.

     Fishermen and other interested groups are encouraged to provide input on the PID either by attending public hearings or providing written comments. Public comment must be received no later than 5:00 PM (EST) on April 20, 2012 and should be forwarded to Michael Waine, Fishery Management Plan Coordinator, at 1050 N. Highland St, Suite A-N, Arlington, VA 22201; 703.842.0741 (FAX) or mwaine@asmfc.org (Subject line: Menhaden PID). A subsequent press release will announce the state’s public hearing schedule. For more information, contact Michael Waine at 703.842.0740.

Gaines to Offer Striped Bass Seminar at Chesapeake College

     Wye Mills, Md. -- Chesapeake College will host a fishing seminar on catching striped bass at its Wye Mills campus on Saturday, March 27. Professional fishing guide Capt. Richie Gaines will lead the one-day seminar entitled "Catching Striped Bass." Capt. Gaines will talk about fishing techniques used to catch striped bass, aka rockfish, on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, including trolling, chumming, live-lining and light tackle. Gaines will also talk about equipment to use, how to set out trolling lines, and mention a few of the best places to catch large rockfish.

     The seminar is suitable for all levels of fishing skills, beginning and experienced anglers. Participants can bring a bag lunch. The seminar fee is $52. To register, contact Marci Leach at mleachchesapeake.edu or call 410-827-5833.

Wolfe's Record Striped Bass Certified

     Newport News, Va. -- A 74-pound striped bass, caught on January 20th by Cary Wolfe of Bristow, VA, has been certified as the new Virginia State Record by the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament. Wolfe’s catch surpassed the existing record of 73 pounds, caught nearly four years ago to the day by Fred Barnes of Chesapeake.

     Wolfe made the record-setting catch in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Henry, where they were but one of an estimated 100-boat flotilla while fishing with Captain Tim Cannon aboard the charter boat Bada Bing. The trophy striper hit a trolled tandem parachute rig, consisting of a pair of 2-ounce big-mouthed nylon skirted jigs, paired with 9-inch rubber shad bodies and trolled from a custom rod mated to a Penn 114H, spooled with 80-pound Ande monofilament line. When the fish hit, Wolfe pulled the rod from its holder and began reeling after the striper made an initial but brief run. After an uneventful 15 minutes, the fish broke water near the back of the boat, where the captain realized the fish was likely too large for the net.

     Wolfe was instructed to lead the fish head first into the net. As the angler strained the 80-pound mono to lead the fish the mono snapped and the hook fell from the fish’s lip. Momentum carried the fish across the waiting landing net, where the fish rested briefly. A flick of the tail and the fish would be gone but the huge striper relaxed. Its head slumped into the net and was hauled into the boat by Wolfe and Captain Cannon. Several pictures were immediately taken and the group figured the fish was at least 50 pounds.

     Tournament Director Lewis Gillingham viewed the official weigh-in at Long Bay Pointe Marina by its weighmaster Connie Barbour. “The fish seemed very long for its girth, with a large head and not much in its stomach. Captain Cannon indicated the fish had spit-up several medium-sized eels after it was brought onboard,” noted Gillingham. The trophy striper was hustled to the Richmond Boat Show later Friday evening, where it was on display through Sunday. Wolfe, an X-ray technician employed at Manassas Hospital, also allowed the removal of the big striper’s otilith (ear bone) after the display by a member of the VMRC biological sampling program so its age could be determined. At the time the otilith was removed it was determined the fish was a female with a reasonably large egg mass but its gut was empty.

     The record striper’s otilith was taken to Old Dominion University’s CQFE Ageing lab where it was determined the fish was 26 years old, making it a member of the 1986 year class. The 26 year old fish ties as the oldest otilith aged striped bass. The other fish, taken in 2011, weighed 61 pounds and was a member of the 1985 year class. Interestingly, the outgoing state record striper, was determined to be 22 years old but that was in 2008, making it a colleague of the new record fish as another member of the 1986 year class. 

     The 74-pound, record-setting striper measured 56-3/4 inches in length and had a girth of 31-1/2 inches. The prior state record of 73 pounds was caught in the Atlantic Ocean about one-half mile north of the 4A buoy, which is located off Fishermen’s Island, by Frederick Barnes of Chesapeake on January 23, 2008.

     For more information, contact Lewis S. Gillingham, Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament, 2600 Washington Avenue Third Floor; Newport News, VA, 23607, (757) 491-5160, vswft@mrc.virginia.gov

Maryland DNR Wants Large Marine Party Organizers to Apply for a Permit

     Annapolis, Md. -- Maryland's DNR wants marine gathering organizers to pay for law enforcement. The DNR is pushing Senate Bill 127, in an effort to bring some control to popular large marine parties such as AquaPalooza, Bumper Bash, and Canal Day. DNR staffers say some 10 to 20 Natural Resource Police officers are needed to maintain public safety during those events. 

     According to the proposed legislation, a person may not sponsor or hold a marine gathering without obtaining a written permit from the department at least 60 days prior to the event.

     The permit would not be required for a race, or a parade, or any event that requires a Coast Guard permit. Organizers would have to hire security guards with arrest powers or pay for law enforcement.

     The text of the proposed bill is available here.

Chris Sanders Joins the Staff at the Chesapeake Maritime Museum

     St. Michaels, Md. -- Chris Sanders, of Newport, RI, has joined the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) in St. Michaels, Maryland as a journeyman shipwright. Sanders’ work begins on the three-year restoration project of the historic skipjack, Rosie Parks. He currently resides in St. Michaels.

     Sanders previously served as a museum apprentice from 2008 to 2009, when he worked alongside CBMM’s Boat Yard Program Manager Dan Sutherland to build Vita, a 9-1/2’ tender for the 1888 classic racing yacht, Elf. Sanders also worked on the bugeye Edna E. Lockwood and assisted in the day-to-day preservation of the museum’s historic fleet of Chesapeake vessels.

     After leaving CBMM in 2009, Sanders enrolled in the International Yacht Restoration School in Newport, RI, receiving his proficiency in yacht restoration degree in June, 2011. He worked restoring mahogany runabouts in Bristol, CT prior to rejoining CBMM.

     CBMM’s professional shipwright apprenticeships are awarded using a rigorous interview and selection process. Once accepted, apprentices engage in restoration and maintenance work under the guidance of master shipwrights, and receive training for interacting with the public. Upon completion, shipwrights move forward into boatbuilding careers and other related professions. For more information, visit www.cbmm.org or call 410-745-2916.

Commercial Fishermen Charged with Criminal Violations

     Dorchester County, Md. – On February 10, the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) arrested Robert J. Benton, Jr. 44 from Stevensville, on conservation and criminal charges after he was caught illegally harvesting oysters and then tried to avoid the charges by using another waterman’s identity.

     On February 3, Benton was stopped while he was illegally diving for oysters in the Little Choptank River. When asked for ID, Benton gave NRP Officers a tidal fish license in another waterman’s name, representing himself as that person.

     Benton was charged with fraud, fraud to avoid prosecution, fraud to avoid payment greater than $500 and theft. Benton was also charged with taking oysters without a commercial license, failure to pay oyster surcharge and taking oyster for commercial purposes by diving in an area reserved for hand tongs. Benton faces penalties that range from $250 to $25,000 and 15 years in prison. Benton was jailed in the Dorchester County Detention Center on $10,000 bond.

     Somerset County – On February 10 at 7 a.m., NRP Officers charged five individuals with harvesting oysters in the Tangier Sound Oyster Sanctuary. NRP Officers were aboard a Maryland State Police helicopter when they noticed three commercial fishing boats illegally dredging for oysters in the sanctuary.

     Officers charged the following individuals with unlawfully harvesting oysters in an oyster sanctuary:

Steven P. Benton, 43 from Deale Island, and Darin K. Ford, 46 from Princess Anne, aboard the Donna Lee.
Andrew A. Benton, 37 and Ulyses Seawright Jr., 33 both from Wenona, aboard the Gentle Breeze.
David T. Wheatley Sr., 47 from Wenona aboard the Just Faith.
     NRP Officers seized Wheatley’s oyster dredge from his boat. This was the second time this season that Wheatley was apprehended in the oyster sanctuary. His previous violation occurred on January 20.

     St. Mary’s County – On February 9 at 3 p.m., NRP charged three individuals with removing oysters from an oyster sanctuary and possessing undersized oysters in the St. Mary’s River near Great Mills. Officers charged Migdael A. Trujillo, 32, Lorenzo A. Regalado, 32 and Jose M. Vaquers, 42 all from Dameron, Maryland. A trial date of May 18, 2012 has been set for the District Court of Maryland for St. Mary’s County.

     Under Governor Martin O’Malley’s leadership, increased law enforcement is part of an overall effort to deter poaching and toughen penalties for those who violate fishing laws in Maryland, under the Fisheries Management Reform Act of 2007. A noteworthy part of this effort is the launch of fresh enforcement initiatives and enhancements including the installation of a network of radar and camera units to assist the NRP in monitoring sensitive areas that are prone to poaching. DNR, the Office of the Attorney General and the District Court of Maryland have also expanded a program that sets aside specific days to try only cases dealing with natural resources violations.

Maryland DNR Relaunches Ghost Pot Retrieval Program

Application deadline to work for the program is February 24

     Annapolis, Md. ─ The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Oyster Recovery Partnership are gearing up to remove thousands of abandoned crab pots and pieces of debris from the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland’s ghost pot retrieval program is slated to begin mid-March and will help clean up the Bay, save underwater species and increase jobs for watermen.

     “This is a valuable arrangement that is not only helping to restore our Bay, but providing more jobs for our watermen,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “We also thank Senator Barbara Mikulski and the Congressional Delegation for dedicating funding to establish conservation programs such as this, which provide Marylanders with employment opportunities and help ensure a sustainable future for our state.”

     Maryland Geological Survey and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Chesapeake Bay Office conducted side-scan sonar surveys several years ago and estimated that there were thousands of ghost pots at the bottom of the Bay and its tributaries. Crab pots become lost when buoy lines are cut by powerboat propellers or during storms when the lines may chafe through.

     “The problem with abandoned pots is that they may continue to catch and kill crabs and finfish,” said DNR Fisheries Director, Tom O’Connell. “Additionally, captured fish and crabs may become bait for other predators that could enter and become trapped in the pots and thereby continue the cycle.”

     Target areas for the 2012 effort include the North East River, Fairlee Creek, West River, Rhode River, South River, Severn River, Magothy River, Patapsco River, Patuxent River, Upper Tangier sound, Lower Hooper Island and the Big and Little Annemessex Rivers at Smith Island.

     Maryland’s ghost pot retrieval program was launched in 2010 as part of a federally-funded crab disaster recovery grant secured by Senator Barbara Mikulski and championed by Governor O’Malley. The program guards against future crab fishery failures and provides economic aid to watermen.

     In 2010, about 360 watermen removed more than 11,800 pieces of debris from Bay waters. With $1 million available, the 2012 program will expand on the 2010 effort, employing more watermen and targeting additional areas. The 2012 project is largely in support of active watermen who were directly impacted by the extraordinarily wet weather events of 2011.

     Maryland waterman interested in working for the program can find an application at dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/news/story.asp?story_id=219&title=2012-Derelict-Gear-Retrieval-Project. Applications must be received by February 24.

Model of Tug Torrent to be Unveiled at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

The model tug Torrent, shown here in front of CBMM’s river tug Delaware now under restoration, will be unveiled to the public as part of the new "Push and Pull: Life on Chesapeake Tugboats" exhibit, opening at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland on April 21. The upcoming exhibit explores the world of Chesapeake tugboats and the men and women who work on them, and continues through 2014.

     St. Michaels, Md. -- A model of the tug Torrent has recently been restored and will be unveiled to the public as part of the new "Push and Pull: Life on Chesapeake Tugboats" exhibit, opening at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland on April 21. The exhibit continues through 2014.

     Torrent was used as a fireboat in the Baltimore harbor before later working as a tugboat. The city of Baltimore, with its port facilities sprawling around the shores of the Patapsco River, has long relied on a fleet of fireboats to protect valuable waterfront property. The largest vessel to serve the city was the appropriately-named Torrent, which served along with fireboats named Cataract, Deluge, and Cascade.

     Built on the hull of a steam tug, Torrent was launched in 1921 and served until 1956 when she was replaced by a modern diesel fireboat. Carl T. Allison, an engineer on the Torrent in the 1930s and 1940s, used his leisure time to build this model of the boat he served aboard. The model was gifted to CBMM by Mildred T. Allison, in memory of Calvin F. Allison.

     The model came to the museum with several parts missing or separated, and CBMM Model Guild member Ed Thieler volunteered to conserve it for the upcoming tugboat exhibit.

     The model features not only the five monitors—or nozzles mounted on the main deck, pilot house, aft deck house, and tower, but a grate below the waterline for the water pump intake, discharge gates where hoses can be attached, and other such details.

     Although not a scale model—the model is proportionately a little too wide and too deep for its length—many of the technical details are included. This attention to detail is typical of “sailor-made” models, those constructed by a member of a vessel’s crew who knew it intimately.

     CBMM’s upcoming "Push and Pull: Life on Chesapeake Tugboats" exhibit explores the world of Chesapeake tugboats and the men and women who work on them. For more information, call 410-745-2916 or visit www.cbmm.org.

Gilchrist Introduces Bill Calling for Equity in Funding Fisheries Management

     Annapolis, Md. -- Delegate James W. Gilchrist (D-17th) has introduced HB 1173, supported by the Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD), which would mandate that commercial fishermen pay at least 90 percent of the management costs of their fishery or face repercussions.

     “For too long recreational anglers have supported the management of their fishery while the majority of the cost of managing commercial fisheries has been borne by Maryland taxpayers,” explained Tony Friedrich, CCA MD executive director. “It’s time to stop asking the general public to accept this financial burden.

     “During the past several weeks CCA Maryland has worked with Delegate Gilchrist discussing this inequity and possible solutions to protect Maryland tax dollars and recreational user fees. We believe the bill introduced will go a long way in correcting the inequity. We commend him and Delegate Marvin Holmes and encourage his colleagues to support this bill to be fair to all Maryland citizens.”

     All fishing in Maryland—both commercial and recreational—is supported by a combination of license and permit fees, federal angler taxes and direct grants, and state revenue. Preliminary estimates by the Maryland Department of Natural Resource (DNR) has found that 93 percent of management costs for recreational fishing comes from license fees and federal angling taxes; while only 20 percent of management of commercial fisheries comes from license and permit fees, with an additional 23 percent covered by direct federal grants.

     If enacted, the bill would mandate that DNR modify commercial fishing seasons or close commercial fisheries for striped bass, clam, oysters, or crab if projected revenues would not cover at least 90 percent of management cost for that fishery.

     “Last winter management costs for striped bass skyrocketed when DNR discovered more than 13 tons of striped bass captured in illegally-placed nets,” Friedrich said. “DNR initially closed the gill net season, and had to increase staffing on the water and at reporting stations to assure additional infractions would not occur when it was re-opened. In developing better ways to monitor and enforce the commercial striped bass fishery, DNR identified the massive shortfall and inequity in the amount of money contributed by commercial fisherman in all fisheries as compared to recreational anglers.

    “Unfortunately, many in the commercial industry continue to disregard our natural resources law as evidenced by recent illegal activity involving the oyster fishery. Nineteen separate commercial fishermen have been cited in the last two months for oyster violations, including poaching in sanctuaries, again adding costs to the management of the commercial industry. It’s time for this illegal activity to stop.”

     The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) is one of 17 state chapters of the Coastal Conservation Association, which has 100,000 members nationally.

Pasadena Sportfishing Show Next Weekend

     Earleigh Heights, Md. -- The 20th annual Pasadena Sportfishing Flea Market/Show is scheduled for Feb. 18 and 19, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days.

     Admission is $3. The show typically features discount prices on fishing rods and gear of all varieties. Special items include antiques and hard to find replacement parts. Over 150 tables are expected to be on display with gear for fly fishing, spin fishing, trolling, jigging and more.

     Food will be available for reasonable prices, including pit beef and ham sandwiches, oysters on the half shell and cold beer.

     It's also a good time to pick up your license for this year's fishing action at the Department of Natural Resources' table.

     Find out more at pasadenasportfishing.com

Maryland DNR to Host Bounty Of The Bay Dinner February 28

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Boatyard Bar & Grill will co-host the Bounty of the Bay Dinner from 6 to10 p.m. on Tuesday, February 28 in Annapolis.

     "The Bounty of the Bay Dinner is a celebration of Maryland Seafood and our state's watermen,"said DNR Secretary John Griffin. "By supporting local watermen, farmers and restaurants, not only are we are supporting our State's economy, but our food doesn't have to travel far to get our table, which means fewer carbon emissions and a fresher product."

     From smoky plates of roasted oysters to baked rockfish filets, Maryland seafood is legendary. Through The Bounty of the Bay, DNR and its partners are working to highlight the State's down-home delicacies and the hardworking men and women behind them. Dinner will include the standard Maryland fare, but also highlight overlooked dishes such as yellow perch.

     "We want to remind people that even during the winter months the Bay continues to provide us with ample fishing opportunities and plenty of amazing seafood options," said Steve Vilnit, DNR Fisheries Marketing Director. "In bringing together commercial and sport anglers, DNR staff and members of the public we hope to build camaraderie and share in the message over an incredible seafood feast."

     The dinner comes on the heels of the successful "From the Bay, For the Bay Dine Out," which took place in early October. More than 170 restaurants from Pennsylvania to Virginia donated $1 from every dinner Maryland seafood dinner sold during that week to the Oyster Recovery Partnership, a non-profit organization working to rebuild the Chesapeake Bay's native oyster population. DNR, the Oyster Recovery Partnership and the participating restaurants raised more than $20,000 to help restore Maryland's native oyster.

     The Bounty on the Bay Dinner includes a raw bar and a five-course meal featuring Maryland oysters, crabmeat, striped bass and yellow perch. Tickets will be limited to the first 125 guests who make a reservation. The dinner is $49 per ticket and includes all food, tax and gratuity. To RSVP or for more information call the Boatyard Bar & Grill at 410-216-6206.

    To see a video from last year's event, A Celebration of Maryland Seafood, visit youtube.com/watch?v=yadupwSgwyo.

CBMM’s “Foodways of the Chesapeake” Continues March 1, 14

     St. Michaels, Md. -- The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s (CBMM) “Foodways of the Chesapeake, Now and Then,” lecture series continues March 1 and 14 with the final lectures in the four-part series. Held along the museum’s waterfront campus in St. Michaels, MD, CBMM members and the general public are welcome to participate, with pre-registration required.

     From 6 to 8pm on March 1, “Connecting People, Place, and Products: Eating Our Way to a Healthy Bay” will take place in the museum’s Van Lennep Auditorium and features chef and author Barton Seaver, Steve Vilnit from Maryland Department of Natural Resource’s Commercial Fisheries outreach and marketing division, and Carol Bean and Mark Connolly of Pot Pie Farm in Wittman, Maryland.

     Together, the panel will discuss the future of watermen, sustainable fishing in the Chesapeake, and how consumers can protect the environment and community. Participants will sample local seafood and share in a conversation about caring for the Bay through responsible consumption. Copies of Barton’s book For Cod and County: Simple, Delicious, Sustainable Cooking will be available for sale and signing. The cost is $12 for CBMM members and $15 for non-members.

     From 2:30 to 4 pm on March 14, “We Are What We Eat: African American Discomfort Food” will take place at the museum’s historic Mitchell House and features African-American food scholar Michael Twitty. Well known in local communities for his lively presentations, Twitty traces the history of African-American Chesapeake cuisine through his experiences growing, preparing, and researching the recipes of enslaved Tidewater Africans. In this presentation, Twitty brings history to life through open-fire cooking demonstrations, and involves his audience in discussions about heirloom crops and seeds, wild food, foraging methods, and the cooking techniques that create a uniquely African-American cultural tradition. The cost is $10 for CBMM members and $12 for non-members.

     Space is limited, with pre-registration available by contacting CBMM’s Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941.

Maryland Fishing Report by Keith Lockwood

     Oxford, Md. -- Fishermen are starting to get serious about fishing this week due to the beautiful weather. This time of the year is usually relegated to getting equipment in shape and going to outdoor shows to see what new tackle is out there and that new fishing rod you just got to have. There is some good striped bass action off Ocean City and there is plenty of yellow perch action going on.

     The fisheries service will be at the Pasadena Fishing Flea Market along with Licensing on February 18th and 19th at the Fairleigh Heights Fire House on Route 2. Come look for some bargains (there is usually plenty), buy your fishing license and stop by to chat with us.

     The relatively warm winter weather has water temperatures in the bay and tidal rivers and creeks about 5-degrees warmer than what fishermen and fish expect this year. The coldest water temperature noted in the lower Susquehanna was 38-degrees last week and fishermen are reporting 42 degrees in the Elk and Northeast Rivers today.

     Yellow perch are behaving differently this year and are either staging or actually moving up the tidal rivers towards their spawning areas. Fishermen in the lower Susquehanna are not seeing the patterns of fishing they did last year. The smaller yellow perch are schooled up in deeper water as expected but the larger fish seem to be somewhere else. Throwback ratios in the lower Susquehanna, Northeast and Elk Rivers are very high. It would be a calculated guess that the yellow perch in that 12” to 14” size range could be swimming freely in shallower waters looking for something to eat.

     Early reports are coming in from traditional tidal rivers; of yellow perch being caught; two weeks ago at Martinake State Park on the Choptank and at Hillsboro on the Tuckahoe yesterday. There have been reports of scattered catches at Gray’s Run (Bush River), Wayson’s Corner (Patuxent River), Allen’s Fresh (Wicomico River) and traditional tidal rivers where yellow perch are found. Brothers Tyler and Aiden Dunlap got to go fishing with their dad on the Sassafras recently and caught this nice yellow perch on a 1/8oz jig. Be sure to check out their Angler’s Log of February 6th. http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6830475957_8afb4eb995.jpg 

     At present fishermen in boats are doing well when fishing close to the bottom with scented soft plastics and live minnows at the mouths of the tidal rivers in channels and holes. Bank fishermen are employing small grub jigs and minnows. If you’ve got the itch to get out; buy your fishing license and check out your favorite spots and you might be lucky enough to be there at the right time and be that guy who’s able to say “you should have been here yesterday." 

     Freshwater fishermen in the upper reaches of the tidal rivers and small ponds and lakes everywhere are having fun catching chain pickerel. They’re good fighters and usually charge a lure with total abandon. Crappie are schooled up deep in some of the larger reservoirs such as Loch Raven around bridge piers and marinas in the tidal Potomac and Patuxent Rivers are always good places to look. Largemouth bass can be found holding deep along ledges and drop-offs and small, slow and close to the bottom is the mantra for successful fishermen; grubs, blade lures and hair jigs worked very slow or dead sticked can entice a pickup by a bass hunkered close to the bottom. 

     John Mullican sent us the following report from the upper Potomac. Always check river levels before heading out. When river levels are at manageable levels, walleye fishing is expected to be good. Hair jigs and grubs worked through the current breaks below dams and major ledges are your best bet when the water temperatures remain in the 30s. During winter warm spells and as spring progresses crankbaits can be productive too. For the die hard smallmouth angler winter can be a tough time to catch many fish. The bass that are caught, however, can be large. Try crawling small hair jigs very slowly along the bottom in areas with little current. Pause often and let the jig sit. The hit will be a mushy feeling similar to pulling in leaves or a slight tap. Warming trends following a rain event can bring great fishing even in the middle of winter. 

     In early January a few fishermen got out on the ice at Deep Creek Lake and ice fished in some of the coves but that was short lived and the ice, what little there is of it is very unsafe. Fisheries biologist Alan Klotz recommends fishermen try some of the trout catch and release areas and mentioned the Trophy Trout section of the lower Savage as a good place to fish for trout. The pre-season stocking of trout has begun and will go through the month depending on flow conditions and weather. Fishermen can check the latest trout stockings on the following link. http://www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/stocking/index.asp 

     Fishermen at Ocean City have been catching some large striped bass this week by trolling large Mojos, Stretch and Tomic lures. Large striped bass are moving along the beaches on their journey north and the shoal areas within 3-miles of the beach has been the place to troll; most captains are fishing north of the Ocean City Inlet. January was an exciting month for tautog fishing and a new state record 23lb tautog was caught by Charlie Donahue of Philadelphia while fishing on an Ocean City head boat that specializes in this type of fishing. Fisheries biologists aged Charles’s big tog to be 10-years old. At least one other 20 lb tog was caught last month and weather permitting the good fishing continues this month. 

Training for Sassafras Samplers Saturday at Washington College

     Chestertown, Md. --   The first training session of 2012 for the Sassafras Samplers is this Saturday at Washington College. The group will be discussing the background and plan for 2012 non-tidal sampling and testing, as well as some changes to testing procedures. Both new and experienced samplers are strongly encouraged to attend.

Sassafras Samplers Training
Saturday, February 11
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Washington College, Toll Building
Room S110

     For more information visit http://www.sassafrasriver.org.

Inspection Crews Scheduled at Spa Creek Bridge Feb. 20-24

     Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that engineering consultants, on behalf of the Maryland State Highway Administration, will be performing an inspection of the structural, mechanical and electrical systems, each day between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., at the following movable bridges:

1) MD-181 Bridge, at mile 0.4 across Spa Creek in Annapolis from Feb. 20-24;

2) MD-231 Bridge, at mile 24.4, across Patuxent River in Benedict from March 12-23.

     Inspection personnel and equipment will be working at the bridges during these periods and will be in proximity to the navigable channels. They do not anticipate any disruption to navigation traffic and will relocate from the navigation channels upon request for vessel passage. Mariners should exercise caution when transiting these areas. Charts: 12282 & 12264.

United States Yacht Shows to Produce Spring Show in Annapolis

     Annapolis, Md. --  The event which has become the gold standard for sailboat shows, The United States Sailboat Show, is coming to downtown Annapolis in the spring of 2012. Forty two years ago the concept of producing a boat show in the water was invented in Annapolis by Jerry Wood. All these years later it remains the largest in-water show of new sailboats in the world and will now be copied in a springtime version. Annapolis City Dock, Ego Alley and surrounding areas including Susan Campbell Park will be the site for this exciting new event.

     The show will feature Cruisers University, a four-day educational event designed to introduce and train students for life aboard a cruising boat. Classes will be held in the Annapolis Waterfront Marriott and the
Annapolis Rec Center.

     The Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show will include over 2,000 feet of floating docks accommodating over 80 new and brokerage sailboats, both mono and multihull. In addition there will be equipment and accessory vendors on land surrounding Ego Alley.

Maryland NRP Charge Five with Oyster Violations

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Natural Resources Police have charged five watermen with oyster violations in Dorchester County.

     At around 9 a.m., NRP observed Bryan R. Grimes, 36 of Chester, Edward E. Grimes, 61 of Stevensville, Mason T. Coursey, 19 of Centerville and Christopher L. Marvel, 19 of Grasonville, illegally diving for oysters in a hand tong only area of the Little Choptank River.

     The men were charged with catching oysters for commercial purposes by diving in an area reserved for hand –tonging. Officers seized four bushels of oysters and returned them to water.

     At 9:30 a.m., NRP observed Nelson B. Goslin Jr., 42 of Cambridge, with illegally power dredging for oysters in Fishing Bay. He also had undersized oysters (14 percent) on his boat. NRP charged Goslin Jr. with possessing unculled and undersized oysters and power-dredging in an area reserved for hand tongs. Three bushels of oysters were seized and returned to the water.

     A trial is set for April 18 in the District Court of Maryland for Dorchester County.

     Under Governor Martin O’Malley’s leadership, increased law enforcement is part of an overall effort to deter poaching and toughen penalties for those who violate fishing laws in Maryland, under the Fisheries Management Reform Act of 2007. A noteworthy part of this effort is the launch of fresh enforcement initiatives and enhancements including the installation of a network of radar and camera units to assist the NRP in monitoring sensitive areas that are prone to poaching. DNR, the Office of the Attorney General and the District Court of Maryland have also expanded a successful program that sets aside specific days to try only cases dealing with natural resources violations.

DNR Names Herrington Harbour as Maryland Clean Marina of 2011

Inaugural award presented during Clean Marina Workshop

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) presented Steuart and Hamilton Chaney, owners of Herrington Harbour Marina with the inaugural Clean Marina of the Year Award on January 26 at a Clean Marina workshop in Annapolis. The runners-up were Spring Cove Marina in Solomons and Tidewater Yacht Service Center in Baltimore.

     “Implementing and maintaining Clean Marina practices is good for the environment and good for business,” said Steuart Chaney. “For more than three decades, the first consideration when making any decision is, ‘How will this decision improve the environment?’”

     To earn this title, Herrington Harbour demonstrated excellence in the overall cleanliness of their facilities, the environmental services that they offer, and implementation of clean marina rules and practices.

     “Undoubtedly, Herrington Harbour is like no other marina in Maryland,” said Donna Morrow, Program Chief of DNR Boating Services. “We are happy to award them the first-ever Maryland Clean Marina of the Year.”

     The marina created more than four acres of tidal wetlands, set aside 600 acres in perpetual preservation, cultivated oysters to filter Bay water and installed buffers to filter stormwater. They also operate several pumpout stations and enforce strict environmental rules on any work done in the boatyard. As a result, the initiatives have produced significant improvements in water quality and in boater appreciation toward the environment.

     There were approximately 12 nominees chosen by marina customers, owners and staff. DNR took submissions throughout the 2011 boating season. Steuart Chaney accepted the award, which was signed by DNR Secretary John Griffin. Herrington Harbour received a $1,400 prize from EMP Industries/Elias Environmental.

     The marina’s two facilities are located on Herring Bay in southern Anne Arundel County. Each facility contains nearly 600 slips with direct access to the Chesapeake Bay. The popular resort marinas and yacht yard provide the closest deep-water access to the Bay from the D.C. metropolitan area. Combining a multitude of services with an eco-resort atmosphere has become a trademark of Herrington. It is their vision to become the best Eco-Lifestyle Marina Resort/Yacht Yard on the East Coast. To learn more, visit herringtonharbour.com.

     The Maryland Clean Marina initiative recognizes and promotes marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs that meet legal requirements and voluntarily adopt pollution prevention practices. DNR has certified nearly 25 percent of Maryland’s estimated 600 marinas as Clean Marinas or Clean Marina Partners. All marinas and boatyards are encouraged to participate. For more information, visit dnr.state.md.us/boating/cleanmarina/.

Inventor of Clouser Fly to Take Part in TieFest

     Annapolis, Md. -- Bob Clouser, inventor of the Clouser fly and one of the world’s most acclaimed fly tyers, will demonstrate his tying techniques at the 10th annual TieFest Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Kent Narrows Yacht Club, Grasonville. Admission is free.

     Clouser has joined a long list of noted tyers for the event which will run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Recognized as the region’s premier fly-tying event, it is expect to attract people from four states.

     Additionally, a number of vendors, including GLoomis, will have equipment for anglers to test.

     Along with Clouser, other tyers will include Brad Buzzi, Steve Silverio, Joe Bruce, and BlaneChocklett. Patterns effective in the Chesapeake Bay and along the Atlantic seaboard will be demonstrated, and attendees will be able to ask questions about tying techniques, materials, and use of particular flies.

     A number of local fishing guides will be attending to answer questions about locations and times to pursue Chesapeake game fish. There will also be auctions of fishing equipment and trips. Food will be available for purchase.

     “TieFest presents a great way to experience fly fishing during the winter months,” said Tony Friedrich, executive director, Coastal Conservation Association Maryland, TieFest sponsor. “What makes it special is that any angler can walk up to the numerous experts attending, ask a personal question, and expect an answer. This doesn’t happen in most other settings.”

     The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) is one of 17 state chapters of the Coastal Conservation Association, which has 100,000 members nationally. CCA MD is an organization of recreational anglers fighting for Maryland’s marine resources and believing the sustainability of the resource must be the priority in any fishery management decision.

Maryland DNR Introduces New Public Input Process To Encourage Citizen Engagement

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Service is making it easier and more efficient for the public to share their thoughts and ideas on potential fisheries regulations.

     “The previous process, which has been in use since 2007, has not been as effective as it could be,” said DNR Fisheries Director, Tom O’Connell. “We are optimistic that these changes will help our stakeholders stay better informed and make it easier for them to participate in the decision-making process.”

     In the past, DNR would post draft regulation proposals online, announce public meetings to the press and then present the proposals at three public meetings each year. The concept was developed so that citizens could use the mainstream news and web documents to learn about proposed regulations and voice their ideas and opinions at public scoping meetings.

     While participation in the online process has become more effective, attendance at the public meetings has declined sharply. Because of expense, effort and response, such meetings are no longer merited.

     To accommodate everyone, DNR’s new, expanded process will provide opportunities to gain information and get involved, via:
Traditional news distribution through mainstream media outlets
Email outreach to keep stakeholders informed - dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/emailcontact.asp.
Social media outreach through Facebook and Twitter
Public meetings organized to address particularly controversial issues.
Online forums hosted by Fisheries staff to encourage discussion and collect comments concerning specific issues.
Publication in special interest and regional outlets
     The department continues to work with the Fisheries Advisory Commissions and appropriate state-sponsored work groups to develop regulatory ideas. DNR depends on the commissioners and work group representatives to reach out to their constituents to help spread awareness and assist with gathering input.

     DNR’s ultimate goal is to ensure that the public is aware of and educated about potential regulatory changes, and that citizens have ample time and resources to provide input before formal proposals are submitted to the Maryland legislature for consideration and approval.

     Proposed regulations can be found at dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/regulations/draftregulations.asp.

    To subscribe to the DNR Fisheries regulatory information email list, visit dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/emailcontact.asp.