The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) has drafted an addendum which gives options for increasing the coastal commerical quota for striped bass by as much as 50%. This stunning turn of events has left conservationalists shocked at the ASMFC's apparent disregard for strong evidence pointing to numerous problems with the atlantic striped bass population. Unlike in the 1970s when rampant over fishing was the primary cause of the stock's crash, the current picture painted by scientists and officers is all the more bleak because of the wide variety of factors that are negatively impacting striped bass.

The New York Coalition for Recreational Fishing and MSA went to the hearing on 7/21, spoke and turned in a written comment which may be viewed at nycrf.org. We strongly urger others to do the same.

You may get a copy of the addendum by contacting Nichola Meserve by phone at (202) 289-6400 or email at nmeserve@asmfc.org

Thank you.

 The Montauk Surfcasters Association is a non-profit organization that:
• Preserves and protects the privilege to fish on Long Island.
• Represents MSA on the Fishing Advisory Board, an ad hoc committee which advises New York State on matters affecting surf fishermen such as permit regulations, beach access, fees, habitat & use of State Parks.
• Represents fishermen on matters affecting the use of Suffolk County Parks
• Lobbies elected officials on regulations affecting the fishery, habitat protection and other environmental matters.
• Monitors State and local candidates for office and informs membership on issues affecting fishermen.

Annual activities of the M.S.A include:
• Spring and fall clean-up of the beaches surrounding Montauk Point; participation in National Beach Clean-up Day; spring clean-up at Cedar Beach.
• Annual poster contest in Montauk as part of Oktoberfest.
• Annual picnic at Suffolk County Park - Third House.
• Participation in fishing seminars.

Membership:
• Annual membership dues are $15.00 for adults 18 years and older; $20.00 for family.
• Members in good standing receive a quarterly newsletter.
• Six meetings per year: Four meetings held on the first Saturday in May, June, October and November in Montauk; two meetings held in Islip on the first Saturday of January and March.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
President: Willy Young
1st. Vice President: Ken Dobos
2nd. Vice President: Mike Lang
Treasure: Paul Valenti
Communications Director: Jay Blatt
Recording Secretary:  [Open]
Membership: Maryann Young
Website Maintenance: ShadoeFX Web & Graphic Design
Original Website Design: Peresh Dave