The Juvenile Abundance Index (JAI) counts the number of baby striped bass in spawning areas, representing the productivity of each year’s spawn. The JAI for the Bay has been recorded since the 1950s. It is the gold standard for assessing the coastwide fishery. Mathematical models are one thing. Physically counting juvenile fish in a seine net for decades is another. The Juvenile Abundance Index should be the number one consideration for managers.
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| For perspective, the average index is 11. The outstanding 2015-year class we are all enjoying targeting was 24.2.
Here are concerning metrics from the last five years: 2019 – 3.37 2020 – 2.48 2021 – 3.20 2022 – 3.62 2023 – 1.02 This is the worst 5-year series ever documented. Many anglers and guides up and down the coast report a concerning lack of smaller fish. Unfortunately, there is little hope of resolving that issue soon. The ASMFC Striped Bass Board will meet next week, and we must take proactive action to conserve this vital species. Without strong management decisions now, we will face a fishery loaded with non-existent year classes. Sign our official letter calling for critical action to rebuild this fishery. We must speak up for the fish we love before it’s too late. |
