The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission plans to hold a public hearing on Thursday to gather input on controversial new striped bass regulations.

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) met Monday to discuss the status of striped bass populations and consider changes to 2025 management measures.

On the opening day of striped bass fishing in Maryland, recreational anglers and charter boats ventured out onto the Chesapeake Bay, but not all were enthusiastic about the start of the season.

 In a legal battle over new striped bass regulations, local charter boat captains are turning to Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, for support.

Delmarva Fisheries Association Inc. (DFA) and Maryland Charter Boat Association (MCBA) have filed a formal lawsuit challenging the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s (ASMFC) recent mandates that would reduce recreational fishing limits for striped bass (or rockfish) by more than 50%.

In a move aimed at addressing declining populations of striped bass, commonly known as rockfish, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) approved new regulations, effective immediately, drawing criticism from the angling community.

A commission that protects fish in east coast waterways is exploring ways to boost the declining rockfish population in the Chesapeake Bay.

Tuesday was the first day of the season for striped bass fishing for recreational fishermen.