Recreational Fishing Perspective
Dr. Bob Shipp
University of South Alabama

Recreational fishermen do not share quite the level of concern over mercury in finfish as one might expect from commercial harvesters. This is because there has been much more sentiment toward tag and release in the recreational sector in recent years, and much less toward "meat fishing." Nevertheless, recreational fishermen are anxious to learn the methyl mercury levels at various life stages of popular species.
This is because many species are still consumed by family members, and regulations regarding slot limits, bag limits, seasonal closures, etc. may be impacted by this information.

Additionally, recreational tournaments often donate catches to local charitable groups, orphanages, and other worthwhile recipients. This practice may be sharply curtailed or modified should mercury levels dictate.

Of additional concern and interest to recreationals is the suggestion that oil platforms may contribute to mercury levels in reef species. Should this prove true, fishing preferences would likely be greatly modified.

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