Fishermen To March On Washington, Dc

[CaptTB]

FISHERMEN TO MARCH ON WASHINGTON, DC

For Immediate Release, December 10, 2009:

Recreational and commercial fishermen, support business owners, families, and community leaders will gather at the steps of our Nation’s Capitol on February 24, 2010 from noon to 3 PM to show congress a united front of the impacts caused by the unintended impacts of the Magnuson Stevens Conservation and Management Act as revised effective January, 2007 (RMSA). The overly restrictive management requirements created by the RMSA based on non scientific arbitrary deadlines are forcing anglers off the water, eliminating commercial fishing, preventing consumers from purchasing locally caught fresh seafood, destroying small family businesses, increasing unemployment, and adversely affecting coastal communities.

We fully support real science based management and the conservation of our marine resources while also being able to sustain recreational and commercial fishing activities, providing locally caught seafood, sustaining small family businesses, and supporting our coastal communities. Please stay tuned as the details are being developed and will be provided. Make your plans to join us for this historic event and work with us in a United effort from coast to coast.

UNITED WE FISH and FISHING MATTERS

CCGF urges all elected officials to work together and to join the efforts by the leaders of other coastal states for the best interests of our coastal communities and the Nation.

This effort is being coordinated by many organizations and individuals including but not limited to CCGF, RFA, FRA, United Boatmen of New York, United Boatmen of New Jersey, MSSA and more to be announced.

CCGF is a 501(c) (6) non profit that represents recreational for-hire vessel owners and operators, supporting businesses, and recreational anglers from the Gulf of Mexico

[Blackfish Doug]

I'm in on this protest maybe we should make a list to see who's going.

[bigal427]

I'm in how about some buses

[hartattack]

All in !!

[BOILERMAKER]

in

[calout]

lets go
we need t shirts

[Bluefish]

Great concept but ...Feb 17 lets ask the weatherman, 5 degrees, blowing 25, snow and ice. Im all for it but I dont think it will attract the show of force necessary to make our leaders any more aware orresponsive. Im a very positive/can do person but there are factors here you cant control.

[Ocean Explorer]

What about in the mean time,can you or someone else Tony post a list of emails or letters that we can forward from like say this website or somewhere we can start everyday hammering these elected officials from each state about this crisis?Cant hurt if we all start hammering them everyday with letters from all of us.Not sure how to go about it.

[thehammer]

I'm in no matter what the weather !!!!!

FISH ON !!!!!:cool:

[jakesdad]

Let's all get on board for this. Time to help make a difference.

[ReelErIn]

Bus Triphttp://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj295/reelerin/upjpg.jpg

[Blackfish Doug]

Bus Triphttp://i275.photobucket.com/albums/jj295/reelerin/upjpg.jpg
This is beginning to sound better nothing like a good old fashion protest.

[Blackfish Doug]

Capt TB I posted your Post on a few major fishing websites even on some of the websites from the West Coast. That would be something if they would join the fight. I think this may get some steam rolling I only hope it does.

[jigman90]

As Captain Ron says " it's put up or shut up time"
I'm in I will need a ride either someone's car or a bus will to share gas or pay for the bus fare
if anyone needs me to be involved drop me a e-mail I have the time and willing to make calls or what ever it takes!
I'm ready!! I'm not doing this for me it's all about the Grandchildren and the next generation!! or maybe even next years fishing season!!
lets all get involved !!

[MVP]

I am in for a roadtrip

MVP

[CaptTB]

Great concept but ...Feb 17 lets ask the weatherman, 5 degrees, blowing 25, snow and ice. Im all for it but I dont think it will attract the show of force necessary to make our leaders any more aware orresponsive. Im a very positive/can do person but there are factors here you cant control.
Great concept but......

Whatever dude. People will have their reasons for going or not going, that's cool. Fact is there is no time to wait for a beautiful mid-summers eve with light tropical breezes to do this.

If we wait till spring there will be that many more people out of business or going further down the tubes. We wait till summer people will be on vacation or fishing or whatever. We wait....well you get the point. There are always factors you can't control and if you wait for everything to be perfect you'll be waiting forever, going up against another protest on a different topic that might be more mainstream (since many of those kinds of issues wait for the "right" time as you suggest)

It's now or never and if people cannot get off work that is totally understandable. No one can be at everything, every time. If people do not wish to go that is understandable too, these types of things are not for everyone, and I'll count you among them and move on. There is nothing wrong with not wanting to stand in the cold after driving for hours, I'd rather not do it but feel it is needed and necessary.

To those asking about posting more info, etc., I will gladly do so when I get the boat that is in drydock back home, which will hopefully be Monday. I am out of touch from 4:30am till 6:30pm every day so I only have a couple hours each night. Have my kids B'day tomorrow then home (hopefully) from drydock Monday then after that I am all yours (sort of;) )

Please stay tuned, LOTS more to come with this one!

[Kenny O]

Keep posting info,I'm in.like the shirt idea,if I can help with organizing in any way let me know

[bowhunter]

Why not pic a colder day to have a march?

[CaptTB]

Why not pic a colder day to have a march?
Yawn.... See my previous post. Shall we wait till everyone is out of business and there are few if any other species to fish for before we march?

If people don't want to go because it is cold outside then so be it, everyone has their reasons for doing or not doing whatever it is they do or do not do.

The point is it is now or never, the clock is ticking. Looking at your handle, and having a 13 year old son, a father-in-law and a cousin who are avid bowhunters, I would ask if you only hunt on the sunniest, warmest days of the season? If so, then I would not recommend coming to the D.C. in February, it might be cold out:rolleyes:

If there is truly any resolve amongst the businesses and fishermen to fight for what we believe is right, the timing should be as soon as possible before more damage is done, not when the temperature hits a certain level :D
http://www.mmob.biz/images/Miss_the_Boat.jpg

[Reelron]

Thinking about a t-shirt that says,


"I WOULDN'T BE HERE IF YOU LET ME FISH!"

[GottaGo Joe]

Put a second line on that quality 't'Thinking about a t-shirt that says,


"I WOULDN'T BE HERE IF YOU LET ME FISH!"

"YOU WON'T BE HERE IF YOU DON'T"

[Reelron]

Put a second line on that quality 't'


Nice Joe, Teamwork will get it done!

[SHIRTGUY]

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE GUYS FROM CAPT RONS FISHERMAN FOR TURNING ME ONTO THIS FORUM (RON, ROBBY, CHRIS) I HAVE BEEN FISHING ALL MY LIFE ( ALL 33 YEARS OF IT AND THAT MAY BE LESS THEN SOME OF THE OTHER MEMBERS HERE BUT I REMEMBER WHEN WE USED TO HAVE FLUKE IN THE COOLER EVERY WEEKEND AND NOTHING TASTES BETTER TO A 9 YEAR OLD THAN EATIN SOMETHING THAT YOU CAUGHT WITH YOUR DAD WELL NOW IM THAT DAD AND THIS MORNING AS I WAS LEAVING THE HOUSE AT 4:30 AM ON A SUNDAY MY SON ( 3 YEARS OLD) WAS AWAKEN I TOLD HIM I WAS GOING FISHING AND HE SAID " HAVE FUN DADDY AND BRING SOME FISH HOME TO EAT" IT MADE ME THINK THAT ONE DAY THE ONLY FISH I BRING HOME FOR MY FAMILY WILL BE FROM WEGMANS OR SHOPRITE THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT WAYS THAT WE CAN ALL CONTRIBUTE AS YOU CAN SEE I GO BY THE NAME SHIRTGUY ( THATS WHAT CHRIS CALLED ME ONE TRIP) BUT THE TRUTH IS I DO HAVE A SIGN/ SHIRT SHOP AND IF THERE IS ANYTHING THAT I CAN DO WITH MY RESOURCES I AM GLAD TO PITCH IN ( i WORKED WITH THE NJOA WITH A COUPLE JOBS IN THE PAST YEAR)

[Blackfish Doug]

I'm beginning to get inquires from another board about this. I'm referring everybody to this post.

[howarda780]

Frank and Palone have put together a meeting of East Coast law makers to discuss MS act.

http://www.gloucestertimes.com/fishing/local_story_344233047.html/resources_printstory

[CaptTB]

DATE UPDATE!!!!!

The march is on the 24th of February, not the 17th. Since the congressional schedule no longer has members in over the presidents Day break (originally we were under the impression it did) the date is now the 24th.

As an added bonus, the 17th was Ash Wednesday, so no conflicts with the religious holiday either.

[dales529]

Recreational Fishing Alliance

Contact: Jim Hutchinson, Jr. / 888-564-6732

For Immediate Release

December 16, 2009
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

FISHERMEN TO MARCH ON WASHINGTON
"United We Fish" To Seek Congressional Support On February 24

December 16, 2009 - In a historic show of solidarity, recreational and commercial
fishermen will gather together on the steps of the Capitol on February 24, 2010
from noon until 3 p.m. in an organized demonstration against the unintended negative
impacts of the Magnuson Stevens Conservation and Management Act (MSA), the federal
fisheries law which was revised in January of 2007. Coordinating the march under
the flag of United We Fish, rally organizers are hoping to see a large show of
force in defense of coastal communities.

"The closures keep coming and it's good to see the collective fishing communities
and industries, both recreational and commercial, calling for scientific based Magnuson
reform," said Jim Donofrio, Executive Director of the Recreational Fishing Alliance
(RFA). "We are all in this together." Donofrio cited recent closures of amberjack,
black sea bass and red snapper fisheries as examples of what he calls a "broken"
federal fisheries law.

The groups organized through United We Fish are hoping to prove to legislators just
how many American anglers and business owners are truly being impacted by the overly
restrictive management requirements created by MSA based on non scientific arbitrary
deadlines. According to Bob Zales of the Conservation Cooperative of Gulf Fishermen
(CCGF), the time-specific deadlines mandated by MSA coupled with flawed data collection
methods are forcing anglers off the water. "We fully support real science based
management and the conservation of our marine resources while also being able to
sustain recreational and commercial fishing activities, providing locally caught
seafood, sustaining small family businesses, and supporting our coastal communities."

This effort is being coordinated by many organizations and individuals including
but not limited to the RFA, CCGF, United Boatmen of New York, United Boatmen of
New Jersey, New York Sportfishing Federation, Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's
Association and the Fishing Rights Alliance. "Some people have asked 'why, it's
winter'," said Donofrio who said he's gotten the required permits and expects a
large crowd in DC on February 24th, regardless of weather. "We can't let seasons
stop the momentum, and if we wait any longer none of us will be fishing. Many members
of Congress will be standing shoulder to shoulder with us," Donofrio said.

Nils Stolpe, a consultant to the commercial fishing industry and columnist for SavingSeafood.org
said that over the past three decades since the original Magnuson Act was established,
fishermen have been gradually phased out of the fisheries management process, regardless
of sector. "The scientists have been put in charge, and as the list of closures
and restrictions up above painfully demonstrates, the Act has been turned into a
weapon that is now being used against fishermen and fishing communities."


U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) first introduced the Flexibility in Rebuilding
American Fisheries Act of 2008 in the 110th Congress to incorporate "limited flexibility"
into federal fisheries management. More than 100 fishing groups and industry members
from around the country pledged their support for the legislation and the bill's
19 bipartisan coastal cosponsors, but the bill languished during the volatile economic
climate in advance of the presidential elections in November of 2008.


Realizing that fisheries closures would continue without congressional intervention,
in March of this year, Rep. Pallone and fellow Representatives John Adler (D-NJ),
Henry Brown, Jr. (R-SC), Ginny Brown-Waite (R-FL), Barney Frank (D-MA), Walter B.
Jones, Jr. (R-NC), Patrick Kennedy (D-RI), Frank LoBiondo (D-NJ), Mike McIntyre
(D-NC), Michael Michaud (D-ME), Solomon Ortiz (D-TX) and John Tierney (D-MA), reintroduced
the Flexibility in Rebuilding American Fisheries Act of 2009 (HR 1584). Twenty-five
total co-sponsors have since pledged support to date including Rob Andrews (D-NJ),
Timothy Bishop (D-NY), Allen Boyd (D-FL), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Peter King (R-NY),
Rob Wittman (R-VA), Jo Bonner (R-AL), John Mica (R-FL), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL),
Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH), Clifford Stearns (R-FL), Donna Christensen (D-VI), Gus
Bilirakis (R-FL), and Ander Crenshaw (R-FL).

Following a letter-writing campaign by the RFA-NY and members of the New York Sportfishing
Federation, senior Democratic Senator Charles Schumer of New York announced his
Senate version of the bill (S.1255). Currently, the Senate bill to correct the flaws
in MSA has no co-sponsors, which is something United We Fish organizers are hoping
will change in February.

"New York's Senator Schumer is as concerned about his fishing constituents as he
is about the fish, just as Congressmen Pallone, Frank, Jones, LoBiondo, Kennedy,
Adler and others in the House of Representatives are," said Stolpe. "Hence they
have formed the nucleus of a growing movement in Congress that, in spite of the
editorial opinion of the New York Times and the expenditure of many millions of
dollars by the Pew Charitable Trusts, is aimed at preserving recreational and commercial
fishing, the lifestyles of millions of fishermen, and the tens of thousands of businesses
and hundreds of fishing communities that they support," Stolpe added.


Organizers from within the recreational fishing sector are hoping to get commitment
from all user groups and across varied state and regional boundaries. "This is much
bigger than any one state issue or individual grievance," said RFA's Managing Director
Jim Hutchinson, Jr. "Whether it's our restrictive fluke fishery in New York, the
arbitrary closure of state waters for our anglers in California, or the shutdown
of red snapper and amberjack down south, our community has been divided by preservationist
tactics for too long. It's time to unite the clans in defense of our coastal heritage
and traditions," Hutchinson said.


"We need to let Congress and NOAA know that we are the collective voice of the recreational
fishing community and the collective voice does not accept the current broken management
system which wreaks such havoc on all of us and our businesses," said Donofrio,
adding "The goal on February 24th will be to get all of our congressional friends
to attend."


"At this point Senator Schumer and his Congressional colleagues in the House deserve
the thanks and the support of every one of us who fishes, whether for fun or profit,"
said Stolpe.


The United We Fish rally is set for 2/24/10 at noon at the Capitol. For details
as they become available, sign up for the RFA's email newsletter on the homepage
at www.joinrfa.org. [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102890531142&s=11876&e=001jIQwo-fjS64tojxxWFoZ31RAa1SMhx3ZA7HeljmpLGGEFBvHu6BVB3Wl GmMzwEiEXe-hM9-rwM4QMWvgmP2gKIRqKcSPOAJG9NZKLX-HiukI6-TjMPDWog==]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[sportfishingusa]

Does anyone want to make a call for the buses? It is a tuesday which is tough for me but i am going to make it a point to get on this and get down..

If there is any need for transportation let me know and i would be happy to make some calls and coordinate it!


Even if i cant make it i would run the bus end if needed..

let me know.. hope i can make it!

[CaptTB]

Does anyone want to make a call for the buses? It is a tuesday which is tough for me but i am going to make it a point to get on this and get down..

If there is any need for transportation let me know and i would be happy to make some calls and coordinate it!


Even if i cant make it i would run the bus end if needed..

let me know.. hope i can make it!

SPortfish, several groups (including UnitedBoatmen and SSFFF) are working on arranging buses. Gimme a week or two or until right after Christmas and we'll have a LOT more details up.

Also, the 24th is a Wednesday, not a Tuesday.

[bowhunter]

DATE UPDATE!!!!!

The march is on the 24th of February, not the 17th


LOOK AT THAT!!!You did find a colder day!!!

[CaptTB]

DATE UPDATE!!!!!

The march is on the 24th of February, not the 17th


LOOK AT THAT!!!You did find a colder day!!!
See that? Where there's a will there's a way!:D

Notice you still have not had anything positive to say. Are you planning on going if possible? If you cannot go, have you talked to others about it and about going?

We need all the help we can get, and we are all trying to help each other, so any help you can offer (and not just you, but everyone) is greatly appreciated.

[BOILERMAKER]

I Fish In The Cold And Rain I Will March In The Cold And Rain

[maddhatterr]

I Fish In The Cold And Rain I Will March In The Cold And Rain
Hell yeah....thats what I'm thinkin.....:D

[crabby]

i'm going to try to go too, sounds like a good february trip

[bigjamaica]

DATE UPDATE!!!!!

The march is on the 24th of February, not the 17th


LOOK AT THAT!!!You did find a colder day!!!

I don’t want to go if it’s too cold! I don’t want to go if it’s too hot! I don’t want to go if it’s too windy! I don’t want to go if it’s too flat! I don’t want to go if it’s too crowded! Do you think you will have enough to go?

[bowhunter]

Never saw you not go when it was to windy!!!

Anyway I never said I wasn't going.I just said it is going to be cold.

[shresearchdude]

I can picture it now.... 1/2 the bus filled with recreational fisherman the other 1/2 filled with commercial fisherman. Each side arguing about who's fish they are going to fight for-:)
OR maybe this is the opportunity for both sides to get along?.

[CaptTB]

Just a quick FYI:

Got off the phone today with Academy Bus, they are offering us an EXCELLENT price (thank you Mark & Francis) for buses to the Capitol for the 24th.

I am working with SSFFF, United Boatmen, RFA-NJ and others from NJ to coordinate the pricing, pickup location etc., so all the details should be up after the weekend.

I am posting this now before the details are finalized just to a) keep this topic up top and b) so people know that literally in a matter of days they will have the ability to go online to either SSFFF.net, unitedboatmen.com or joinrfa.org to purchase a spot on a bus. (all groups take checks of course and SSFFF and UB take visa/master and RFA also does paypal so all bases are covered)

Gimme a few days to coordinate with Hutch, Adam, Dave, Jim, Greg, etc. and all the gory details should be up on all websites early next week.

Spread the word for people to keep their eyes open for the details after the weekend and let's get things rolling. (again, pickup location will be part of the announcement!)

Thanks again to Mark & Francis Tedesco (spoke to Mark, gotta give his brother props too!) of Academy Bus for helping make this a reality. Not just the support and awesome price, but the willingness to pick up anywhere we decide and whatever we need in the way of buses!

[jakesdad]

Tony,

Thanks for keeping us up to date, the amount of work you all are doing is above and beyond. Just let us know so we can all make arrangements to be available, no matter what the weather.

[GamblerGal]

I'm in, I'm sure my dad is in, as well as all of my friends and family - whether they like it or NOT! Dress warm, people!

[Got Stripes?]

Are you guys kiddin' me too cold? I just got home from sitting in a goose blind all morning. This rally is going to be a walk in the park!

[1captainron]

HOLD ON A MINUTE....This isn't about Commercial vs. Rec.
This isn't about who get's what and what's fair to whom and all that other crap.
It's about protecting livelihoods and a freedom we have all enjoyed. Remember one thing, the Commercial guys have daily pound limits, yes they get'em when we don't, but look at what we are being told...The stocks have re-bounded, we haven't over fished and overfishing isn't occurring, so what the hell is the problem?
These guys have family's and are 3rd and 4th generation fishermen, like us...Do I say "Because I'm a Party Boat guy" and make my living doing this that everyone with their own boat should be last on the list??
BS, we are all in this together and if we don't show it now when the clock is ticking, we will be dead in the future......Currious to see how many Party and Charter boat Captains really do show up. If this isn't that important then maybe you should think about a job at WalMart!!!
Capt.Ron

[Tony Cav]

HOLD ON A MINUTE....This isn't about Commercial vs. Rec.
This isn't about who get's what and what's fair to whom and all that other crap.
It's about protecting livelihoods and a freedom we have all enjoyed. Remember one thing, the Commercial guys have daily pound limits, yes they get'em when we don't, but look at what we are being told...The stocks have re-bounded, we haven't over fished and overfishing isn't occurring, so what the hell is the problem?
These guys have family's and are 3rd and 4th generation fishermen, like us...Do I say "Because I'm a Party Boat guy" and make my living doing this that everyone with their own boat should be last on the list??
BS, we are all in this together and if we don't show it now when the clock is ticking, we will be dead in the future......Currious to see how many Party and Charter boat Captains really do show up. If this isn't that important then maybe you should think about a job at WalMart!!!
Capt.Ron

Ron,

I would think that the same guys that bitch about Recs Vs Comms would bitch when they can't get spearing or fresh clams or their favorite restaurant is out of fresh swordfish when they want it.

[Capt. Lou]

Anyone residing in western NJ, Easton ,Allentown PA area, that would be willing to obtain a local bus for the march on Wash. Probably need 40 + people to maintain fare at that $30.00 level . I'm willing to pick up someones seat + mine ! That would save us driving to AH etc. PM me or answer via site if interested!

Thanks,
Capt. Lou

[dales529]

Anyone residing in western NJ, Easton ,Allentown PA area, that would be willing to obtain a local bus for the march on Wash. Probably need 40 + people to maintain fare at that $30.00 level . I'm willing to pick up someones seat + mine ! That would save us driving to AH etc. PM me or answer via site if interested!

Thanks,
Capt. Lou


Capt Lou,
Check out the DC Rally 4th Bus Location Thread. There is a pickup in Bordentown NJ Servicing Western NJ / Eastern PA / Philly etc. This should work fine for you guys.

http://www.njfishing.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18455

[Flukinator]

Just created a Facebook event for the march to raise some awareness to different groups of people who don't check up on fishing websites. Gotta spread the word to EVERYONE and get more people than just fishermen on board!

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=230474538404&ref=nf

If you have facebook, you can join the event and invite as many people as you wish.

[Capt. Lou]

Capt Lou,
Check out the DC Rally 4th Bus Location Thread. There is a pickup in Bordentown NJ Servicing Western NJ / Eastern PA / Philly etc. This should work fine for you guys.

http://www.njfishing.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18455

Both locations that someone living in my area can access are AH or Spts.Ctr., they are each about 1 1/2 hrs from my house.
If a bus cannot be launched closer to my home than I'll jump on one of those,this will not stop me from going, just putting it out there in case others may be thinking same.

[jakesdad]

Now that we are into the new year, let's make a resolution to make a difference this year. It's is now time to sign up for the Washington rally.

Please don't think I don't have to do it because other will. We all have to participate to make this work. WE can't wait to see how the weather will be , we need to be there no matter what. Make your arrangements now so that the organizers can see the support they are getting.

Go to the SSFFF site pick a pick up point and make a commitment to DO SOMETHING THIS YEAR TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

HENRY

PS Happy and a healthy New Year to all, and let's keep on fishing...

[Tin Squid]

I will be there!

[GDubya07]

Just got my ticket I am In - Leaving from Atlantic Highlands

I will offer to drive from the Clark Exit off of the parkway exit 135 if anyone is interested please let me know

Lets Rock - :mad: - :D

G- Out Feb 24th - Lets make the difference :cool:

[DMac]

Got my ticket for AH bus yesterday. Who else is going on that one. Maybe we should start tread for each locations IDK

I don't mind showing up early to put together some signs for the march if anyone wants too.

[Mikefishin09]

weather won't be issue
work ethic will
have so many furlough weeks this year if I'm off I'm there

[Reelron]

weather won't be issue
work ethic will
have so many furlough weeks this year if I'm off I'm there

Bring the boss with you. He fishes doesn't he? I'll save you a seat on the bus.

[Mikefishin09]

yeah he fish's just borrowed my tackle for a blackfish trip LMAO

[Dave A]

Please wake up people. There are almost 3600 views to this thread, 55 replies including mine, and after speaking to Tony Bogan yesterday there is less then one busload among all the locations. Everyone b-tches about regulations, shutdowns, short seasons, size and bag limits, etc., well here is the perfect opportunity to let Washington know we've had enough of the BS. I've read excuses such as: not wanting to drive an hour or more for a bus, could be too cold and windy, have to go to work. Well, most of us will think nothing of driving 100 miles or more to go fishing, most of us will fish in the most extreme conditions if the bite is on, and most of us will take a day off from work when the bite is on. And shame on the industry people as well. I know there are very few captains, mates, tackle shop owners and employees, boat dealers and salesmen, and marina owners and employees signed up to go. This is an opportunity to make a difference, let's not waste it.

[DMac]

Please wake up people. There are almost 3600 views to this thread, 55 replies including mine, and after speaking to Tony Bogan yesterday there is less then one busload among all the locations. Everyone b-tches about regulations, shutdowns, short seasons, size and bag limits, etc., well here is the perfect opportunity to let Washington know we've had enough of the BS. I've read excuses such as: not wanting to drive an hour or more for a bus, could be too cold and windy, have to go to work. Well, most of us will think nothing of driving 100 miles or more to go fishing, most of us will fish in the most extreme conditions if the bite is on, and most of us will take a day off from work when the bite is on. And shame on the industry people as well. I know there are very few captains, mates, tackle shop owners and employees, boat dealers and salesmen, and marina owners and employees signed up to go. This is an opportunity to make a difference, let's not waste it.


Amen brother.

People please don't make this effort by all those involved in organizing a waste.

Don't say you can't get off work. in most cases over a month is enough time to request off.

Don't say you can't make the drive. I promise you would make the drive if you had a chance of a lifetime to fish. If not you might never get that chance.

I am personally driving from the Poconos in PA and I will stop along the way (not at your house, but at park and ride or somthing along the way) and bring you with if you are saying..... "I would go but...... the drive boo hoo."

[CaptTB]

I know of quite a few people who are definitely going, but still have not paid for a ticket.

In addition to Dave's comments (which are dead on) please keep in mind those of you who are going but have just not bought a ticket yet, that I have to process every order myself. I keep separate track of each location and each potential bus from each location (12 buses total are possible) as well as a running list to distribute to key people at each location that is updated with each purchase.

Please don't slam me the week before with orders at the last minute.

Give me some time to do this since I have to do it all in my spare time. Start now so we can get this thing rolling.

Hey Al, Kenny, Chris, etc..... WHERE ARE YOU?

We have about 10-12 boat/business owners, and only a few from this site, FROM THE ENTIRE STATE OF NJ that have purchased tickets, not counting myself and my family which have all already paid.

I see the captains and mates from these boats and others posting on here, but they sure as hell haven't spent any money getting tickets for a rally TO SAVE THEIR OWN BUSINESSES, not that many of them ever spent money on anything anyway.

I'm done keeping quiet, it is put up or shut up time for the industry.

Some may say "Oh you catch more flies with honey than vinegar."

I say "Bull$4IT" As Jeff said, Sooner or later you have to realize that all the honey in the world is not going to catch any more flies. As I said, what, are those people who never contribute anything going to contribute less than zero? (good movie by the way:) Are those that NEVER come to meeting going to show up less often than never?

Sorry folks, this is the end of the line. Time for the industry to step up to the plate or piss off, either way I'm in, just like I always have been along with the handful of others that are always in.

Capt. Tony Bogan

[hartattack]

I know of quite a few people who are definitely going, but still have not paid for a ticket.

Just ordered my bus ticket from Atlantic Highlands: fast + easy to do.

Hope to see many of my NJF friends and sponsors there !! I'll be meeting my Long Island friends (leaving from Captree boat basin) on the steps of the Capitol. Let's ensure that the NJ contingent is well represented :cool:

[Capt. Lou]

Tony's & others who posted comments on non participation does not surprise me one bit.
Given all the rallys, meetings, letter writing campaigns that I took part in for over 30 yrs., only bare bones contingents showed, this led me to believe a long time ago that most anglers will contuine not to step up! I hope I'm 180 degrees off for this event, it's like Tony stated, it's really now or never. The momentum is ever so slowly shifting nows our time to unite and act! We all lose if you don't show up in force!!!
Hell I've been driving to the shore all my life to get on mine or someones boat in all kinds of weather to fish, comparatively speaking like someone stated earlier this is a piece of cake!!
Unless I'm completly missinformed, I'll bet that industry support will follow suit,yet we still contuine to purchase their products without any recourse,you know when all's said & done we deserve what we get . It's time to get down & dirty ,lets hold everyones feet to the fire on this one. If they don't participate we should boycott their products period!!
To let this opportunity slip away due to indifferance or whatever your excuse will be, might finish us!!
If you can find any way to attend please do so,everything has been designed to compliment your attendance,to miss it would be putting us in a true position of weakness!

[Ol Pedro]

Will they add busses as the demand grows ? I was leaning towards Bordentown but will hold off until I find out what the rest of the crew is doing . Anyone else shoving off from Sportsmen's Center in Bordentown ?

[CaptTB]

Will they add busses as the demand grows ? I was leaning towards Bordentown but will hold off until I find out what the rest of the crew is doing . Anyone else shoving off from Sportsmen's Center in Bordentown ?
At this rate the answer is no, since we are SOOOOOOO far away from filling all the buses at the current locations. Each location we are selling tickets for can handle at least 2 if not 3 buses at each location, and we have yet to even fill half of one bus at any of the locations.

Buy your ticket as soon as you can. When the date gets close the sales will be halted, we will not have a bus with half a dozen guys on it.

[hartattack]

. . . we have yet to even fill half of one bus at any of the locations. . . .

Pathetic :( When even more Draconian regs are shoved down our throats we'll have no one to blame but ourselves !!

Come on folks, order your tickets NOW.

[DMac]

I hope I am right with this and I say I hope.

I hope we have a lot of procrastinators on this sight. I am guilt of this a lot or I get side tracked and forget.

It is really simple to do it takes about 2 mins and you are done.

Please show up i would love to see at least one full bus from each location.

Capt TB how many passengers does a bus need to go? I hope we do not have people missing the chance to go because the bus wasn't full at their location.

Sign up it is a great cause!!

maybe we could schedule a fishing trip to leave when we get back??

[Ol Pedro]

Thank you Capt. TB . I have at least two others that want to go it's just figuring out what location to depart from .

[dales529]

DMac / Hartattack: great posts and dead on keep them coming. The simple fact is this March is scheduled and advertised so anything other than a strong showing is going to have a extremely negative effect on all the work that the RFA, SSFFF, Capt TB, Capt Adam and others have done to date. Like Leif Posted a while back, Who in their right mind wants to ride a bus to DC in the winter with you guys but simply there is no other choice

This is the simpliest, least time consuming and least expensive thing any individual or business who cares about fishing can do for themselves.

It could not have been made any easier for YOU to attend.

Even if you think that our Fisherys need regulation and more management the FIGHT here is to make sure its based on FACTS. If YOU cant go due to work or family comittments, everyone backing this understands that but then find someone else to go that you know.

Use the printable Flyer that Tony put out and spread the word
http://www.njfishing.com/forums/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=18711

[jakesdad]

Ol Pedro,
Myself plus 1 from the Sportsmans Center.

All of you lurking and thinking about should I go or not. This is our 1 chance to make a difference. Tony, Adam, et al continue to work to insure we have a fishery. Make a commitment for 1 day of your life to help support to help to make change a reality. We all need to be counted.

For all in North Jersey, Central Jersey, or the Philly areas, the Sportsmans Center is within 10 minutes of an exit off 195, 295,or NJ Turnpike either exit 7 or 7A. Easy access with plenty of parking. Let's make it happen, if you want the ability to fish for the rest of your life!

[Bottom Dweller]

Myself and 1 of my buddys are gonna sign on next week. Leaving out of bordentown. Been a little busy with work and getting another motor put in my truck.

See ya there, Bill

[Reelron]

Do we have a full bus from Atlantic Highlands yet? Come on people this is just plain Bull. But then again, I guess that is why we have the regs we have. Just so easy to let the other guy do it.

Maybe we should have a virtual march on DC? Then everyone can sit at their computers, make up cool slogans and spout off with out fear of actually having to DO SOMETHING!

[1captainron]

I'm shocked at how many (PRO"S) from Atlantic Highlands haven't signed up yet, (Charter and Party boat).....When it's too late, the crying will fall on deaf ears!!!

[CaptTB]

Do we have a full bus from Atlantic Highlands yet?

Nope.

[DMac]

Nope.


I don't care what your excuses are the fact that we can not fill a bus with people willing to take one day to protect their fishing rights. If it was opening day of fluke or opening day of blackfish on a weekday you would find that particular parking lot full.

I believe people are also afraid to stand up and make noise that is why we are being defeated by the eviro/animal activists because they are not afraid and are putting their money where their mouth is. I would have to at least give them credit for standing for what they believe. We can't even fill a bus to give one day of our time. These people chain themselfs to damn trees for days.

COME ON PEOPLE

If you are someone saying how can we make a difference. YOU WILL NEVER KNOW UNLESS YOU TRY!!!!

[SHIRTGUY]

Shirtguy Got His Ticket For Atlantic Highland Bus

[Ol Pedro]

I have my ticket leaving from Bordentown . I know that Jakesdad said that he was going from there anyone else leaving from Bordentown . Should we bring anything other than warm clothes/camara's ?

[dales529]

Insert Fishermen of NJ, Enviro's and NOAA where applicable:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5w3ZENhUlDU

Get on da BUS already!!

[Clam Strings]

i belive they are trying to get a buss from grumpys tackle in seaside park for the berkly striper club..i will be goin...



sean

[hartattack]

i believe they are trying to get a buss from ........ seaside park for the berkley striper club..i will be goin... sean

I hope so - if not click on :

http://www.ssfff.net/marchondcticketsdirections.html

[Cindy Sea]

we had a meeting about it last nite, rounded up a few extrs guys, thought about our own bus, but if Tonys buses are empty then we'll be aboard them.Question is what to where? are there really enviro's with red balloons? should we bring slickers? or does that look to to stupid? "Time to try and save our own asses boys"

[CaptTB]

To all:

I and all those who have organized this event support any and all efforts to get people to attend and to get buses for people to take to DC.

There are currently 4 locations I am responsible for: Highlands, Brielle, WildWood and Bordentown.

Each location can easily handle two or three buses worth of cars, which is why those locations were chosen.

ALL of the locations have space available. So, if there is a spot within a reasonable distance from wherever you are, to me it makes sense to buy a ticket for that location as opposed to setting up even more buses from the same area when the first ones aren't even full.

The Highlands and Brielle have each just about filled one bus, that's it. I can easily handle 3 buses from the basin, probably even 4.

So please, if you are going to head to DC on one any of the buses leaving from NJ, NY, PA or DE please go to THIS WEBSITE (http://ssfff.net/marchondcticketsdirections.html) and purchase your tickets or get the information about other bus departure locations!!

Please do not wait, I have to process each of the orders from our 4 locations myself, print receipts, maintain the bus lists, process the credit cards. It would be a HUGE help if people would do it sooner rather than later so I am not slammed with orders at the last minute.

Plus, when we get close to the date we will simply cancel any buses that aren't reasonably full, so if you wait too long you may be SOL.

Thanks very much, and anyone who has information on another bus location not listed at the address above please let me know and I will add that information to the website.

[oceansuey]

just read all the post in this thread and cant believe with all the fisherman who read this site the busses arent filling up. tb and dave a and capt ron are right everyone bitches but doesnt want to put the effort in to do anything. waah its gunna be cold,windy etc etc. dont most people blackfish or fish offshore seabass when its cold and windy? bunch of cry babies. guess u dont realize that fishing rec or comm will soon be a thing of the past and if fisherman from both sides dont speak up and do or say something. the pros in ah and the pros in BELMAR should be ashemed of themselves for not signing up for a bus. the BELMAR BASIN BOYS should really be ashamed cause they bitch and moan but dont do shit to help a cause. all they are is out for a buck to put in there pocket and backstab each other. the writing is on the wall. the head of nmfs is a pew girl and they want no fishing what so ever. ive written senators , congressmen on this issue and most dont reply and i expected that from them. ive fished along time and i see finally the comm and rec are on the same page, which i think is good the comm guys have some big lobbying and thats what this fight needs. it also needs for the govt to see that they will cost the economy millions and millions of tax dollars if they have regs like they have. the trickle effect of closing fishimg seasons and cutting of bag limits is endless. people will lose jobs businesses will go under adn people will lose houses, boat builders wont make boats, tacckle shops will close, the whole gamut. if u have a brain u will understand what i am saying. unfortunately i wont be going since i will be travelling that day to fla to fish for fish i cant keep cause of regulations imposed by the govt, but what the hall fishing isnt all about keeping them is it? tony i have a good idea on what belmar prima donnas want there own bus pm if u want. hope u all give em hell on feb 24th on the steps of the capital let em hear us loud and clear we are fed up with all there bullshit. go get boys. this is my opinion and if u dont like it tough deal with it

[mj4]

Any PA guys on here lookin for a ride shoot me a pm.We have a bus leavin from SE PA.Looks like theres 6-8 seats left.

[Reelron]

I "borrowed" this quote from Jim Donofrio, with his permission ofcourse.

"Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you."
Jefferson

Get on the bus! I will save you a seat.

[Tin Squid]

To those who are "thinking about going", I have this to say.

1. It is one day of your time.

2. It's "your chance" to be heard and make a difference.

3. This will impact your kids ability to fish.

4. It could be a "once in a lifetime" deal.

5. It may very well be your best chance to "change things for the better".

6. You will be able to say that "you were there".

7. Push has come to shove, we need all the help we can get.

8. Put in for a "Personal Day" at work. I did, because to me, "it's personal"!

I hope to see you "all" there! ;)

[Clam Strings]

Bus leaving from grumpys tackle in seaside park...tickets are 20 bucks..get on it...with this crew on the bus you will be laughin your ass off the entire trip...


sean

[howarda780]

Some artwork from "Crazy Alberto Knie".

[Capt Sal]

Talked To Quite A Few Local Capts. And Tackle Shop Owners.are You Going ?no I Am Busy!you Won't Be Soon!

[jakesdad]

We will remember who showed and who didn't. I will know where to do business after the 24th. and where to avoid. I will let my dollars talk!

[Capt. Lou]

Amazing scenario that we have to talk boycott & shame our own fishing community into saving their own A''''S ! What's it gonna take to get fisherman on board transportation of their choice, for the trip to DC ! Don't be left out ,there are probably some free seats still available,make the call if you cannot afford the $'s, that's why those offers were made to help out, take advantage !!

[Capt Sal]

We will remember who showed and who didn't. I will know where to do business after the 24th. and where to avoid. I will let my dollars talk!


what i meant is if we do not go to wash. and stand up for our rights we will not have any business!if you have made other arrangements in advance,such as a reservation to go go vacation etc. i understand.if just do not care or do not want to bothered?i would go even if i did not run a charter for a living.i want to take my grandsons fishing!

[jakesdad]

Sal,

What I meant,was by taking a day and going to DC we will make a difference and changes to the law WILL happen. I for one will support those who felt it necessary to stand and be counted. Why should those that choose to do nothing get the FULL benefits that change will bring.

The industry as a whole has preferred to let a few do all the work, I respect these few and all who publicly support the cause, I understand people have other obligations, but I will encourage others to spend their dollars wisely. Let us show our support to all who participate, so that they thrive because of their efforts, as the others might not be around much longer due to their lack of effort.

Henry

[Harlee Rod]

Jake,

How do you know who will be participating.?

You and I have never met yet I may be standing next to you in D.C. I will not be carrying a banner promoting my business as that is not the purpose of the rally.

You will not see me on one of the buses because I will most likely be travelling with either sales reps from Penn, Abu Garcia and Shakespeare. Or I may join the group that makes Tsunami rods. All these guys are going but they are not bragging about it on NJFishing.com as it is not their goal to try and make a profit from this all too important march.

[dales529]

Jake,

How do you know who will be participating.?

You and I have never met yet I may be standing next to you in D.C. I will not be carrying a banner promoting my business as that is not the purpose of the rally.

You will not see me on one of the buses because I will most likely be travelling with either sales reps from Penn, Abu Garcia and Shakespeare. Or I may join the group that makes Tsunami rods. All these guys are going but they are not bragging about it on NJFishing.com as it is not their goal to try and make a profit from this all too important march.

Not answering for (Jakesdad) but having read your post I must humbly disagree with the philosophy of the Industry not stating who they are and that they ARE going. Its NOT bragging, its important for all involved to be noticed and counted. As a recreational fisherman who spends a considerable amount of $$$ each year on Tackle, Charters and PBs its very important to me to know who is supporting the march. Just as I want to know which politicians are supporting the Flexibility in MSA Bill as it WILL affect my vote, the same can be said for the Industry support. If it is allowed under the permit to march on the 24th I would love to see BANNERS flying from the Industry reps you mentioned as it would show the politicians that major Industry in fishing is deeply concerned and involved as well as the impact on the economics of fishing restriction based on poor data.
IMHO

[Ol Pedro]

HR , standing and being counted is not bragging . If putting your name on this thread and other sites will get people to think that they should be there too or at least support the cause then how is that bragging ? Harlee Rod's will be there we should go to . HR ,by answering this thread we know that there is going to be more Industry Support with us and possibly put even more of us down there in DC . I feel that we all should fly our Colors (Weather Permitting) so they can see the crosssection of people that this effects .

[732fishboy]

I'll be their!:cool:

[Clam Strings]

my girl is comming with us as welll. she was asking about it last night and she really is interested..


she is a keeper...





sean

[jmurr711]

my girl is comming with us as welll. she was asking about it last night and she really is interested..


she is a keeper...





sean

true i tried getting my school to let me take a bus of kids but no dice, i did email the daly news and the bait shops up here in the philthy about it least i could do i hope theres a great showing and its fairly portrayed by the media if at all

[hartattack]

Question for Captain Tony - -

Are adult beverages allowed on the buses ?

[CaptTB]

Question for Captain Tony - -

Are adult beverages allowed on the buses ?

No. We would prefer people did NOT bring alcohol.

[hartattack]

Thanks for the rapid reply Cap.

Better that folks learn this NOW !!

[dales529]

Forecast for District of Columbia

Updated: 2:58 PM EST on February 18, 2010
Active Notice: Public Information Statement (US Severe Weather)

Rest of This Afternoon
Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s. Northwest winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 30s. Northwest winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.
Friday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s. West winds around 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
» ZIP Code Detail
Friday Night
Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 20s. Northwest winds around 15 mph.
Saturday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph.
» ZIP Code Detail
Saturday Night
Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s.
Sunday
Partly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Sunday Night
Mostly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of snow. Lows in the upper 20s.
Monday
Rain and snow likely. Highs in the upper 30s. Chance of precipitation 60 percent.
Monday Night
Cloudy with a chance of rain and snow. Lows around 30. Chance of precipitation 50 percent.
Tuesday
Mostly cloudy. Highs in the upper 30s.
Tuesday Night
Mostly cloudy. Lows in the mid 20s.

Wednesday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 30s.
:D

Just sayin! Get on the bus

[Andreas Toy]

Too all the fisherman going to D.C. great job. Can not make the trip on Monday. Made my contribution to SSFFF, to offset any costs or to pay for some seats, wish I could be there to help in the cause.

[1captainron]

Fred,
Seeing that you can't make it on MONDAY, you can always come with us on Wednesday, if you like...........

[hammer4reel]

Hopefully we dont get drowned out there tomorrow, as DALES had to post an early forcast LOL

Dave NEVER look for an early forcast when doing ANYTHING with fishing

[Leif]

I'll be there. Weather looks good. I'll be the one with the fat head and red face.


Leif

[snapperbluefish101]

Good luck to all who are going. I'm thankful for you guys you are the future in our nj fishing.:)

[dales529]

Hopefully we dont get drowned out there tomorrow, as DALES had to post an early forcast LOL

Dave NEVER look for an early forcast when doing ANYTHING with fishing


Typically I would never think of doing it Dan :eek: Still looks good for tomorrow in DC its getting out of NJ that may be the issue.

DC for Wednesday
Partly sunny in the morning...then mostly cloudy with a slight chance of rain in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent.

See you there.

[RussH]

If ANYONE can handle some bad weather it's the men and women who fish on a regular basis. While I cannot personally be there tomorrow I want to wish everyone who goes good luck and give my personal thank you for those that are going. I hope if it rains it rains just enough that the fishermen are comfortable and the PETA type J/O's who are going to counter-protest get too soggy to show up.

[Reelron]

Good luck to all who are going. I'm thankful for you guys you are the future in our nj fishing.:)


No snapper, you are the future, we are just trying to hold on to some of it for you.

[DMac]

I can not make it I had an emergency come up at home. I had an issue with my septic system, and I have to stay and get it fixed. Trust me I would rather be in DC than digging down to find and fix a broken pipe. Found the pipe just not the broken section. I was out digging until dark in the heavy snow that is hitting us up in PA trying to get it fixed so I could make it, but I ran out of light and the snow finally defeated me.

I would like anyone who could attend to take my spot on the bus. Please... I feel horrible about this. I can email you the pass if you give me your email if anyone knows anyone that wants to go, my pass is for the AH bus. Please feel free to PM me or call me 570-242-3246

Thank you

Dennis

[hammer4reel]

well Dave we got 2 inches of snow already, looks like the drive in the morning is going to stink.

[Tuna Tales]

Thank you to all who are going!

Capt Ron...I saw you on News 12 NJ tonight...very cool.



Best,



Joe T.

[Leif]

Glad we went. Thanks to all who participated and those who worked so hard.


Leif

[Capt. Lou]

I'd like to say that I was impressed with the fisherman turnout & passion of the speakers at yesterdays rally in DC.
The weather was perfect ,hopefully the future outcomes will mirror our present optimisim. I have aleady contacted my congressman this AM and I'll await their replys regarding the MS fleixability changes. Hopefully evryone will do the same to get this behind us ASAP!
Thanks again for all that worked to make this a success and especially those that traveled day & night to get there!!