Commercial harvests of spot have been on the decline for more than 20 years and recreational numbers fluctuate, but a multistate management approach and independent research aim for sustainable stocks.
fisheries
Standard commercial fishing license eligibility board to meet
The state Division of Marine Fisheries Standard Commercial Fishing License Eligibility Board will meet 10:30 a.m. April 7 by teleconference.
Aquaculture permit change to help cultivate finfish species
The state has exempted aquaculture operations from size and possession limits to make it easier for operators to breed more finfish in upland facilities.
Lost photographs: Remembering NC’s fishing communities
Historian David Cecelski illustrates with a series of photographs life in the 1930s and 1940s fishing communities as well as the man who took the photos, Charles Farrell.
What’s on the line? It’s a bird, it’s a plane — it’s a sea robin
They have large fins that look like wings and there are 16 known species in North Carolina waters but whether they’re a nuisance, a delicacy or merely a fascinating addition to a saltwater aquarium depends on who you ask.
Groups: New Hanover development request ‘sheer folly’
Approval of the requested development ordinance text amendment could clear the way for construction of high-rise condominiums on a flood-prone 8-acre parcel near the Battleship North Carolina that a coalition of six organizations says would destroy habitat and areas of historic and cultural significance.
Southern flounder meetings now by web conference only
The three Marine Fisheries Commission advisory committee meetings scheduled for later this month will be held by web conference only.
January cleanup: In with new gear, reviving the old
Longtime fishing guide Capt. Gordon Churchill talks readers through readying old gear before heading out for the first trip of the year.
Hearing on 14 proposed Carteret shellfish leases Feb. 8
An online public hearing on 14 proposed shellfish leases in Carteret County is set for Feb. 8.
Onslow shellfish lease proposals hearing Jan. 27
A public hearing is set for Jan. 27 on eight proposed shellfish leases in Onslow County waters.
What’s on the line? Atlantic bluefin tuna
Measuring more than 8 feet long, the massive size of an Atlantic bluefin tuna helps distinguish it from its tuna cousins in the Atlantic.
DMF seeks comment on draft southern flounder plan
The North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries is accepting public comment until Jan. 14 on Draft Amendment 3 to the Southern Flounder Fishery Management Plan.
State reminds public of blue crab harvest closures
Annual blue crab harvest closures will take place early next year in North Carolina waters to help end overfishing.
Winds, temperatures can affect varying red drum numbers
A new UNCW study looks at how wind, water temperature and food source can affect juvenile red drum in nearshore areas.
Fisheries officials ask public to report cold-stunned trout
Though no cold-stun events have happened so far this season, the Division of Marine Fisheries is asking the public to keep an eye out for cold-stunned spotted seatrout.
What do anglers really want for Christmas this year?
Capt. Gordon Churchill, Coastal Review’s new fishing columnist and longtime guide on the North Carolina coast, shares his list of responses to that familiar question this time of year.
