Here is another chance to help shape the long-term direction for our saltwater recreational fisheries. 

Today, we released a draft of our National Saltwater Recreational Fisheries Policy for your review and comment.

Thanks to the hundreds of people who turned out to one of our three dozen public discussions on the policy and the many more who shared comments online.

We listened to every statement and read every email.  Your feedback formed the basis for the draft policy we're pleased to share with you today.

We created the policy to ensure our recreational fishing objectives are institutionalized and remain top-of-mind.

The policy is not intended to shortcut the transparent, public decision-making process established through the Fisheries Management Councils and states.

Rather, the policy serves as a guide for our actions and responsibilities under the law.

You can find summaries from past meetings and other helpful materials that explain more about the policy and NOAA Fisheries role in recreational fishing online.

You can submit online comments on the draft until December 31, 2014. We welcome your feedback and ideas for improving the policy.

For more information, please contact Russell Dunn at 727-551-5740 
or russell.dunn@noaa.gov.