NFC Works to Correct and Refine New hampshire's Legal to Use Baitfish List...
From NFC’s analysis of the proposed regulation changes…
NFC recently formally formally opined in regard to a sweeping fishing regulations change proposal published by New Hampshire Fish and Game that would notably expand the use of live fish as bait. The use of live fish as bait is behind many nonnative fish introductions. This includes gamefish and roughfish as well as baitfish.
While researching for our position on the proposed regulation changes, NFC grew concerned about what species of fish were legal to use as bait in the state. We also identified several administrative issues in regard to incorrect scientific names.
While NHFG stated that all species legal to use as bait are native to the state, one species, emerald shiners are not. They are also a known carrier of VHS, a disease that has caused fish kills elsewhere. Two other species have very limited native ranges in NH.
“we have reviewed the baitfish information [nfc] put together and our records. As a result of your comments, we are pursuing the removal of three baitfish from our list, as well as some further clean-up...”
The use of live fish as bait is dangerous. While New Hampshire has proposed an expansion of the use of live fish as bait, neighboring Maine has taken several steps to lessen the use of live fish as bait and refine what species are and are not legal to use over the last decade.
Removing nonnative and limited range species from New Hampshire’s legal to use list would be a step in the right direction. Withdrawing the proposal to expand the use of live fish as bait, especially in the northern counties would be prudent as well.