Last night in Concord NH the state Fish and Game held an explanatory/public input meeting concerning the reclassification of state controlled water bodies.
They justified their actions with current conditions, chemical makeup of NH waters, survival logistics of over-wintering and summer heat spikes ... and since it hasn't been reclassified in a long time and it was time to.
The state Fish and Game's proposal to reclassify water bodies in New Hampshire, specifically opening pristine ponds from fly-fishing only to bait fishing, reflects a narrow focus on the science of aquatic ecosystems while neglecting the broader cultural, environmental, and economic dimensions of fly fishing. While the state's scientific analysis of current conditions—such as water chemistry, temperature fluctuations, and their effects on fish populations—is undoubtedly important, it overlooks several critical factors that make fly fishing a unique and vital aspect of New Hampshire's identity and heritage.
Firstly, fly fishing is not just a sport; it is an art form and a tradition deeply rooted in New Hampshire’s history. Generations of anglers have practiced fly fishing in these pristine ponds, developing a unique culture that fosters respect for the environment, conservation, and the delicate balance of nature. Fly fishing, by its very nature, is a low-impact activity that prioritizes the preservation of fish populations. The careful catch-and-release practices associated with fly fishing help to sustain fish populations, allowing them to thrive even in challenging environmental conditions. By opening these waters to bait fishing and increasing the take limits, the state risks undermining this delicate balance, leading to overfishing and a degradation of these precious ecosystems.
Furthermore, fly fishing attracts a dedicated and passionate community that contributes significantly to New Hampshire's economy. Fly fishers often travel from out of state, spending money on local lodging, dining, gear, and guide services. The state's proposal could diminish the appeal of New Hampshire as a premier fly-fishing destination, leading to a potential loss in tourism revenue and economic support for local communities. Moreover, fly fishing is inherently tied to conservation efforts; fly fishers are often among the most ardent advocates for protecting water quality, preserving habitats, and supporting sustainable fishing practices. By diluting the exclusivity of these fly-fishing-only ponds, the state risks losing a key constituency that has historically championed the conservation of New Hampshire’s waters.
The argument that the state waters are calcium-poor, acidic, and subject to warming trends is indeed a cause for concern, but these issues should prompt more targeted conservation efforts rather than a broad reclassification of water bodies. Instead of opening these ponds to more extractive forms of fishing, the state should focus on habitat restoration, water quality improvement projects, and other conservation measures that address the root causes of these environmental challenges. Protecting these unique fly-fishing waters could also serve as a model for how to manage other fragile ecosystems in the state, demonstrating a commitment to both scientific and cultural preservation.
In conclusion, while the state’s reclassification proposal is grounded in science, it fails to account for the broader implications of such a move. The art of fly fishing, with its emphasis on conservation, low impact, and deep cultural significance, offers a more sustainable approach to managing these waters. By preserving these ponds as fly-fishing-only and focusing on conservation rather than increased extraction, New Hampshire can protect both its natural resources and its rich angling heritage for future generations.
We need a strong pro Flyfishing email response sent to
comments@wildlife.nh.gov
Thanks everyone
They justified their actions with current conditions, chemical makeup of NH waters, survival logistics of over-wintering and summer heat spikes ... and since it hasn't been reclassified in a long time and it was time to.
The state Fish and Game's proposal to reclassify water bodies in New Hampshire, specifically opening pristine ponds from fly-fishing only to bait fishing, reflects a narrow focus on the science of aquatic ecosystems while neglecting the broader cultural, environmental, and economic dimensions of fly fishing. While the state's scientific analysis of current conditions—such as water chemistry, temperature fluctuations, and their effects on fish populations—is undoubtedly important, it overlooks several critical factors that make fly fishing a unique and vital aspect of New Hampshire's identity and heritage.
Firstly, fly fishing is not just a sport; it is an art form and a tradition deeply rooted in New Hampshire’s history. Generations of anglers have practiced fly fishing in these pristine ponds, developing a unique culture that fosters respect for the environment, conservation, and the delicate balance of nature. Fly fishing, by its very nature, is a low-impact activity that prioritizes the preservation of fish populations. The careful catch-and-release practices associated with fly fishing help to sustain fish populations, allowing them to thrive even in challenging environmental conditions. By opening these waters to bait fishing and increasing the take limits, the state risks undermining this delicate balance, leading to overfishing and a degradation of these precious ecosystems.
Furthermore, fly fishing attracts a dedicated and passionate community that contributes significantly to New Hampshire's economy. Fly fishers often travel from out of state, spending money on local lodging, dining, gear, and guide services. The state's proposal could diminish the appeal of New Hampshire as a premier fly-fishing destination, leading to a potential loss in tourism revenue and economic support for local communities. Moreover, fly fishing is inherently tied to conservation efforts; fly fishers are often among the most ardent advocates for protecting water quality, preserving habitats, and supporting sustainable fishing practices. By diluting the exclusivity of these fly-fishing-only ponds, the state risks losing a key constituency that has historically championed the conservation of New Hampshire’s waters.
The argument that the state waters are calcium-poor, acidic, and subject to warming trends is indeed a cause for concern, but these issues should prompt more targeted conservation efforts rather than a broad reclassification of water bodies. Instead of opening these ponds to more extractive forms of fishing, the state should focus on habitat restoration, water quality improvement projects, and other conservation measures that address the root causes of these environmental challenges. Protecting these unique fly-fishing waters could also serve as a model for how to manage other fragile ecosystems in the state, demonstrating a commitment to both scientific and cultural preservation.
In conclusion, while the state’s reclassification proposal is grounded in science, it fails to account for the broader implications of such a move. The art of fly fishing, with its emphasis on conservation, low impact, and deep cultural significance, offers a more sustainable approach to managing these waters. By preserving these ponds as fly-fishing-only and focusing on conservation rather than increased extraction, New Hampshire can protect both its natural resources and its rich angling heritage for future generations.
We need a strong pro Flyfishing email response sent to
comments@wildlife.nh.gov
Thanks everyone