In 2005, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation raised the limits on fluke fishing.  This means that Staten Islander's, who fish in Raritan Bay, Sandy Hook and the Atlantic Ocean, are now at a disadvantage to New Jersey fisherman, whose rules are more lax.

The NYS DEC raised the size limit of Fluke for 2005 to a 17.5" minimum and a limit of 5 fish kept each day.  In neighboring New Jersey, the limit is 16.5" minimum and a limit of 7 fish per day.

This only means that more and more fishermen will head over the bridge to fish, making it difficult for Staten Island's vital fishing economy to sustain itself.  This is unfair!  Its time Staten Island fishermen send a message to New York State and say we have had enough!  Lower the limits now!

It is important that we stick together - that is why you must send a message to New York State now.  Currently, a petition is being collected by Mike's Bait and Tackle, on Mansion Avenue in Great Kills Harbor.  However, if you would like to send a message directly to the NYS DEC (which we recommend), please do so (all comments should be in written form and sent in by the June 10, 2005 deadline) to:

Byron Young
NYSDEC
205 N. Belle Mead Rd, Suite 1
E. Setauket, NY 11733