The official newsletter of the Coastal Conservation Association of Louisiana Winter 2010

CCA members have voiced a loud “no” to a proposal to divide recreational fishing quotas between individual anglers and charter boat operators. CCA members re-cently flooded the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council with comments against the pro-posal.

The Council held a three-day “Sector Separation Workshop” in Tampa in November, ostensibly to help managers and stakeholders gain a better understanding of sector separation as a management tool for recre-ational fisheries.

“CCA is opposed to sector separation simply because it makes rec-reational anglers compete against each other at a time when there seem to be fewer and fewer opportunities for anglers to pursue fish offshore,” said Chester Brewer, chairman of CCA’s National Gov-ernment Relations Committee. “There would be no desire for sector separation if

we had adequate allocation for these fish-eries in the first place, and the allocation problem is not going to be fixed through a management scheme that slices up the recreational sector.”

As it stands now, fisheries managers divide harvest quotas between commer-cial boats and recreational anglers. Under Sector Sepa-ration, managers would as-sign quotas to commercial boats, private boat anglers and charter/for-hire boats. In testimony submitted to the Gulf Council, “Sector separation will only cre-ate additional divisiveness

among users and will further detract from the public’s ability to access these impor-tant natural resources,” said Brewer. “We sincerely hope that Council members are listening to the overwhelming majority of recreational anglers who believe that this is not a good management tool for our sector. There is a long list of serious prob-

lems that need to be resolved before the Council should even consider taking on this kind of diversion.”

CCA says “no” to sector separationCCA focused on four key points in opposing sector separation:

• The creation of imbalances in distri-bution of fish among anglers fishing from private boats and those fishing on charter vessels

• The creation of deep political con-flicts within states as decision-mak-ers grapple with how to spread fish-ing opportunities between private and charter sectors

• The challenges state fisheries direc-tors will have when determining how Sector Separation will influence the growth in licensed anglers and fish-ing opportunities in their states

• Shorter public season for most off-shore fishing. Private boat anglers will often be unable to pursue many species unless they pay a charter/for-hire vessel.

After the tremendous success of last year’s State Convention, the Board of Directors has decided to return to the Hilton Capitol Center in 2011. The event is shaping up to be the best ever and we hope all of you will join us.

Last year, attendees enjoyed many aspects of the two days besides the camaraderie of visiting with fellow members from around the state. One of the biggest hits was a behind the scenes tour of LSU’s Tiger Stadium. CCA Loui-siana also hosted a wide range of speakers including Gov. Bobby Jindal, Sen. David Vitter, Congressman Bill Cassidy, state legislators, NOAA officials and Chairman of Coastal Resto-ration Authority Garrett Graves.

Of course, the highlight of the weekend was the Chapter Cook-off and Tailgate Party which was won by the Ascension Chapter. The Cook-

off is by far the most anticipated and talked about event each year. If you haven’t had the opportunity to attend, this is something you won’t want to miss. Attendees are treated to all types of food prepared by some of the best chefs in the state in a great atmosphere in downtown Baton Rouge.

Expect to see some of the same events and speakers as well as many new additions to the schedule of events. Continue to check CCALou-isiana.com for the most up-to-date information.

So mark your calendars and make your room reservations at the Hilton Capitol Center by vis-iting our website and clicking on the CCA Loui-siana State Convention banner.

We look forward to seeing you there and kicking off the Mardi Gras season!

6th Annual State Convention is set for February 18th and 19that the Hilton Capitol Center in downtown Baton RougeCCALouisiana

State Convention

“There would be no desire for sector separa-tion if we had

adequate alloca-tion for these

fisheries in the first place. . .”

© W

ill Dr

ost,

2010

2 On the Line Winter 2010

executive director’s message

On the Line, the official newsletter of the Coastal Conserva-tion Association of Louisiana, is a four-color process, quarterly newsletter distributed to CCA Louisiana members throughout the state.

Newsletters are mailed twice a year.For advertising information in On the Line, contact Rad

Trascher, Director of Development, at 225.952.9200.

Robert AlexanderTim AllenDarren AngeloLee ArcementDennis AucoinLJ BadeauxChris BarkerBill BassTed Beaullieu, Jr.George BentJason BertrandJustin BishopBoysie BollingerBrett BordelonSam BordelonCraig BrammerKeitha BroussardAl BroussardGerald BryantScot BynogDon CaillierP.B. CandiesDanny CannonCharlie CaplingerDavid Clement, Jr.David CortezMike CoullardHoward CuevasJohn CurrenBentley CurryDal DaigleM.J. DanosJohn DavisDavid DefeliceAllen DeffnerBrian DelcambreRoy DeveerChris DiedrichAl DomescikRich DonaldsonRoger Doody, Jr.Douglas DrennanChas DrostCory DuhonEllis DupreBerwick DuvalSam ElliottJason EwingJohn FaltermanBrad FifeRobert FoardCarter FourrierScott FosterEdward FrancisBob FrugeBlake FouquierBen GrahamAdam GuilloryJosh GunnChris HarbuckAleta HarmonRon HarrisGlenn HebertWes HigginsRandy HoveyJim HufftDusty Hulin

George HuyeWalter KirtlandKeith LaBauveJason LabelloKevin LacyCorry LandryWayne LandwerlinKirk LaVigne, Jr.Jack Lawton Jr.Andy LeBlancGuy LeGendreTodd LormandDoug MajorMitch MarmandeCamp MatensCraig MatherneEdwin McCallRobert McGuirtStaci McNemarRonald MelebeckNat MercanteRonnie MireMatt MonsonMarc MoutonMike NortonMike OncaleChris PiersonAndy PlaucheRalph RabalaisAnthony RandazzoAndy RecordKeith RichardsonRoy RobbinsAndy RobertsPaul RobertsChris RoosSnoop Roth, Jr.Joey RussoGreg SchlumbrechtJeff SchneiderBrett SchneiderRos ShirleyKirk SieberJohnny SourLuke St. PierreRusty StaffordJoe TerritoRandy TheriotMark ThibodeauxRay ThomasJason ThomaseeJesse ThompsonMichael ThompsonTeddy TwiggE. J. VailDanny VanScott VicknairPierre G. VillereRusty VincentKelly WalkerMichael WallerCarolyn WaltherJohn WaltherLouis WellanShag WheelingtonCindy WickeBryan Williams

Bob Bush Chairman

Gus Schram III President

Bill Blanchet Treasurer

Kevin Bankston Secretary

David CressonExecutive Director/CEO

Sam Barbera IIISTAR Director

Rad TrascherDirector of Development

Ryan GuerinAssistant Director

Julie GrunewaldAssistant Director

Beth FordCommunications Coordinator

Darlene DehnerAccounting

Tony BerriganCoordinator, Cooperative Marine Sport Fish Tagging Program

Annie DrostAdministrative Assistant

StAFF

BoARd oF diReCtoRS

No matter how you slice it, 2010 was a year like none of us have experi-enced before. Our coast and her inhabitants en-dured a challenge like no

other, while already in the midst of one of the worst recessions in American history. In true Louisiana form however, we battled through it and seem to be nearing a better-than-ex-pected recovery. As I write this, fishing re-ports across Louisiana are as good as they have been in years.

But we are not out of the woods…nor can we afford to lose focus on the issues that al-ready impact our fish and the industry. CCA has remained focused, and I am proud to report that we did not skip a beat in our day-to-day service to our members while working tirelessly to help with our continuing oil-spill recovery. Here are just a few ways CCA is cre-ating solutions:

The future of our fisheries in the wake of the spillEarlier this summer, the Louisiana Depart-

ment of Wildlife and Fisheries and Governor Jindal submitted a proposal for BP to fund the construction of a saltwater fish hatchery in Louisiana. The proposal was developed in cooperation with CCA Louisiana. The pur-pose of the hatchery would be to help offset any damage to fish spawning, larval fish and juveniles while they were exposed to sur-face oil this summer. While all testing has shown that our current fish population has suffered minimal negative effect from the oil, there is little known at this point about the effects of the oil on the reproductive process. The hatchery could introduce 15-30 million trout, redfish and flounder fingerlings into our coastal waters and will serve as a tool for re-covery and for long-term management. The proposed cost of this project is $48 million.

NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco, in public comments made earlier this summer, herself indicated that her main concern over the fishery pertaining to the oil spill is how the spawn will be affected. In fact, on NOAA’s website, it states that:

• The presence of discharged oil in the en-vironment can cause decreased use of habitat, altered migration patterns, altered food availability, and disrupted life cycles.

• Oil can kill marine mammals, fish, sea tur-tles and aquatic invertebrates or damage reproductive functions.

• Oil reaching nearshore areas can affect productive nursery grounds and areas containing high numbers of fish eggs and larvae.

To assume that we will “be OK” because our adult fish are seemingly unaffected is foolish and unacceptable. Our state simply cannot afford to risk the near certain likeli-hood that we suffered damages to the spawn or to our precious fish habitats. That damage will have unimaginable effects on our culture and our economy…effects that will be diffi-cult to reverse.

The fish stocking efforts would be coast wide from three locations. The system would consist of a large production facility and two satellite grow-out operations. The facilities would use only native Louisiana brood stock fish and would facilitate only natural fish spawning. We envision having facilities to accommodate youth groups and school trips, as well as providing a place for univer-sity fisheries students to study and earn col-lege credit. The facilities will have a visitor’s center with aquariums, habitat displays, touch ponds, etc.

Other states across the country, including Texas and Mississippi, have well-managed and effective saltwater hatchery programs that have made positive impacts on their state fisheries. They have had success with a number of species that we hold dear here in Louisiana, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder and cobia and others. Other states have had similar successes. It is true that in the past, our fisheries were prolific enough to sustain themselves without a hatchery…we can no longer be sure that is the case.

CCA has also proposed that the responsible parties fund 20 inshore artificial reefs stra-tegically placed across the Louisiana coast. Construction of these artificial reefs will help replace habitat lost to coastal erosion, sub-sidence and removal of oil production struc-tures. The cost to establish the 20 artificial reefs would be $10 million, or $500,000 per reef. The investment would yield opportunity for thousands of coastal fisherman that will be accessible with small craft.

Recreational fishing in our state is a multi-billion dollar industry...and a way of life. Countless individuals and small businesses depend on the viability of our recreational fishery for their livelihood. Furthermore, recreational fishermen are the primary con-servationists who serve as stewards of this

CCA Louisiana is working to create solutions for fisheries issues new and old

continued on page 10

Winter 2010 On the Line 3

news

Winter 2010 On the Line 3

CCA is among a growing coalition of or-ganizations that are pushing Congress to pass the Fishery Conservation Transition Act (FCTA), a measure designed to ad-dress the crisis in federal marine fisheries management.

Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) is the lead sponsor of the measure in the Senate and members of the Congressional Sports-men’s Caucus introduced similar legis-lation in the House of Representatives. Members of the Sportsmen’s Caucus sponsoring the legislation include Reps. Dan Boren (D-Okla.), Paul Ryan (R-Wisc.), Mike Ross (D-Ark.), and Jeff Miller (R-Fla.). CCA and other supporters of FCTA believe that there is a critical need to give fed-eral marine fisheries managers the time, resources and direction necessary to ad-dress chronic deficiencies in data collec-tion and science that have plagued fed-eral fisheries management.

The goal of FCTA is simple: to fix defi-ciencies in NOAA Fisheries that have been exposed by the 2006 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management

Act (MSA) and have resulted in devastat-ing effects on fisheries and the recreation-al fishing sector. Misplaced priorities and a severe lack of scientific research have forced NOAA Fisheries to make drastic and abrupt decisions that are highly det-rimental to the $82 billion recreational fishing sector.

NOAA Fisheries’ lack of data on many of the species under its management is an on-going concern, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico where baseline data will be sorely needed to recover from the oil spill. But the management decisions causing the biggest uproars have involved closing of various fisheries to the recreational sec-tor. These actions have included NOAA’s abrupt closure of the South Atlantic red snapper fishery and the pending closure of all bottom fishing in a 5,000-square-mile area of the South Atlantic, to name only two.

The FCTA is a long and complex piece of legislation, but following is a greatly sim-plified version of some of its major provi-sions.

• When closure of a certain species is ordered, FCTA gives the Secretary of Commerce authority, in specifically de-scribed circumstances, to allow fishing for other stocks in the same multi-spe-cies fishery complex.

• FCTA gives NOAA and the councils time to transition to a new management framework that will deal more rational-ly, timely and scientifically with rebuild-ing stocks.

• The measure amends MSA’s economic assistance program to better ensure funding is targeted to those businesses and individuals directly affected by clo-sures.

• The Commerce Department is directed to perform better social and economic data gathering and analysis pertaining to any given fishery closure. The Depart-ment is also directed to look at alterna-tive fishery management measures.

• The Secretary of Commerce is directed to conduct a National Academy of Sci-ence study focused on questions re-garding multi-species complexes and impediments to managing such a fish-ery managed to maximum sustainable yield across the complex.

CCA supports major legislation to fix fishing regulation problems

EPA says ‘no’ to banning lead in fishing tackleMore than 43,000 anglers wrote comments to the U.S. Environ-

mental Protection Agency expressing opposition to a proposal to ban lead in all fishing tackle. The EPA ruled in early November against the ban petition filed by the Center for Biological Diversity and four other groups.

“The sportfishing community applauds EPA’s decision,” said American Sportfishing Association (ASA) Vice President Gordon Robertson. “It represents a solid review of the biological facts, as well as the economic and social impacts that would have resulted from such a sweeping federal action. It is a common sense deci-sion.”

In dismissing the petition, EPA indicated that the “petitioners have not demonstrated that the requested rule is necessary to protect against an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the en-vironment…”

Much of the opposition was coordinated by ASA’s “KeepAmeri-caFishing,” which works to keep America’s public resources—oceans, lakes, rivers and streams—open, clean and abundant with fish.

“The sportfishing industry is very proud of the fact that Amer-ica’s anglers were united on this important issue and played a pivotal role in EPA’s decision to reject this unwarranted petition,” said Robertson. “KeepAmericaFishing™ provides anglers an op-portunity to present a strong, coherent voice so that they can ex-press their concerns to decision makers. EPA’s dismissal is with-out a doubt in direct response to the facts we presented which were soundly supported by our collective comments and input.” This is not the first time that such a ban has been requested. In 1992 EPA received a similar petition to ban lead fishing tackle and in 1995 the Agency abandoned the proposed rule because there

was no threat to bird populations and the economic impact was determined to be significant. In September 2010, legislation was introduced to both chambers of Congress to prevent an overarch-ing federal ban on lead in recreational fishing tackle.

Take a Kid Fishingfor 4 hours with Capt. George

Call (985) 415-0081 to book your trip!Fishing available for kids 5-16 only.

Package includes all fishing equipment, bait, ice and certificate of completion.

4 On the Line Winter 2010

around the state Field & Stream names CCA’s John Walther one of six conservation heroes

CCA Louisiana’s John Walther was among six “heroes” chosen by Field & Stream Magazine for their annual Heroes of Conservation award.

Walther, who serves on CCA Louisiana’s Board of Directors and Executive Com-mittee and spearheads the association’s reef-building program, was recognized for his leadership in co-ordinating CCA Loui-siana’s artificial reef program, which has resulted in construc-tion of seven reefs. The recipients of the award were each pre-sented with a $5,000 conservation grant.

“Sportsmen don’t just talk about pro-tecting wildlife and wild places,” says Anthony Licata, editor of Field & Stream. “They actually do it. The conservation-ists we named heroes are out in their community doing grassroots work, while also inspiring a lot more people to get in-volved and do their part. We’re proud to recognize and celebrate their accomplish-ments.”

Under Walther’s leadership as CCA’s artificial reef coordinator, CCA has worked with the Louisiana Department of Wild-life and Fisheries and others to build five limestone reefs along the state’s coast. Another soon-to-be-completed project is an artificial reef in Lake Pontchartrain made of chunks of concrete from the old Interstate 10 bridge that crosses the lake. A second reef will be built in the lake using the same materials.

“The artificial reef projects on which I have been privileged to work with CCA are excellent examples of how a volun-

teer organization can have a tremendous impact,” Walther said at the awards cer-emony in New York. These reefs serve the dual purpose of helping protect our coast-al resources while providing great fishing opportunities for CCA members and all anglers.”

The Heroes of Conservation awards are open to individuals involved in a hunt-ing and/or fishing-related conservation project that is well underway or com-pleted. Selections are based on a num-ber of factors, includ-ing leadership, com-

mitment, project growth, and results. Field & Stream is the world’s largest and most recognized outdoor publication.

Walther, a state employee who lives in Thibodeaux and serves on the CCA Habi-tat and Conservation Committee, says the artificial reefs he coordinates help protect the coast while providing enhanced fish-ing hotspots for anglers.

“Louisiana loses an area equal to one football field of wetlands every 30 minutes,” Walther explains. “With this loss, hard bottom habitats such as oyster reefs and clam beds are also lost. One way to mitigate these losses is to restore natural reefs and create new reef areas. Louisiana did not have a vi-able inshore artificial reef program in the 1990’s to fill this void. I believed that with the strength of the larg-

est volunteer conservation organization in Louisiana the reef program could be revived.”

Walther has participated in other CCA programs such as derelict crab trap re-moval, bayou trash cleanups, and youth related programs. For the past eight years he has organized a fund raising fishing tournament for Louisiana Farm Bureau’s youth activities. He also helped initiate fishing seminars for the 4-H clubs in Loui-siana.

“Sportsmen don’t just talk about protecting wild-life and wild places, they

actually do it.”- Anthony Licata, Field & Stream Editor

CCA Louisiana President Gus Schram and CEO David Cresson visit with honoree John Walther before the ceremony.

CCA members honored with inaugural eco Award from Boating Magazine

CCA Louisiana was prominently featured in the October issue of Boating magazine. Boating magazine is the world’s largest powerboat magazine.

The members of CCA Louisiana were honored with one of the 2010 “Boat-ing Eco Awards” that recognizes groups, people or products that are making a positive impact through boating. Our members, along with the Louisiana Cooperative Marine Fish Tagging Program which is coordinated by CCA’s Tony Berrigan, were also honored for their efforts in the wake of the Gulf oil spill.

The awards ceremony was held Oct. 28 in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., as part of one of the largest boating shows in the country.

CCA members Sam Elliott and Paul Roberts along with tag-ging coordinator Tony Berrigan accept the Eco Award from

Boating Magazine editor Randy Vance.

Winter 2010 On the Line 5

around the state

CCA Louisiana awarded University of Louisiana-Lafayette grad-uate student Scott Walter its 2010 Ted Beaullieu Sr. Scholarship. The fund was formed in 2007 and honors the lifelong conserva-tion work of Ted Beaullieu, Sr. of Lafayette.

The Beaullieu scholarship is awarded each year to a ULL stu-dent pursuing a graduate degree in marine fisheries science or coastal restoration services. The annual scholarship is made possible through a $100,000 donation by the Beaullieu family to the CCA Louisiana Foundation.

Walter is a Ph.D. student and graduate research assistant at ULL with his dissertation focus on coastal and brown pelican ecology and conservation. He was selected for his work on con-servation projects throughout the Gulf Coast and the world. His research for the past four years have included field studies on the remote barrier islands of Les Isles Dernieres in Terrebonne Parish. He has received local and national news coverage for his research, being featured in the October 2009 edition of National Geographic.

Walter received his undergraduate degree in biology from Ne-braska Wesleyan University and his masters degree in Forest Sci-ence from Oregon State University. He has maintained a 3.77 GPA during his doctorate studies at ULL.

“We are pleased to award Mr. Walter with this year’s scholarship and help him continue his studies to improve conservation that will benefit all Louisianians,” said Executive Director David Cresson in presenting the award.

The Beaullieu scholarship was created to contribute to the understanding of coastal wetlands loss, conservation or restoration in Louisiana, and marine fisheries resource management in the Gulf of Mexico region. It honors the lifelong dedication of Ted Beaullieu who has been instrumental in conservation activities ranging from artificial reef construction to helping strengthen laws that protect marine resources.

ULL’s Scott Walter wins 2010 Beaullieu Scholarship

First-ever Plaquemines Chapter event – What a Night!On October 23 the newly formed Plaquemines Parish Chapter of CCA Louisiana held their first annual banquet at the Belle Chasse

Auditorium. The event was a tremendous success with hun-dreds of new CCA members in attendance.

“It is such a great feeling to have your only concern about the event be, can we fit everyone?” said Rad Trascher, director of development of CCA Louisiana. “We are thrilled to have a chap-ter in one of the best fishing destinations in the country and we expect them to do great work in the future.”

The event was sponsored by Unified Recovery Group, Merrill Lynch and Academy Sports + Outdoors, and embraced by the entire community. Special thanks to an outstanding local com-mittee led by President Mike Frenette, Vice President Jonathan Mathes, Treasurer Brian Ballay, and Secretary Mike Lane. Other founding members and officers are Darren Angelo, Mike Bush, Mike Butler, Stan Mathes, Bobby Thomas and Joan Strohmeyer. CCA truly appreciates all of the support from the local business-es, charter captains and Plaquemines Parish leaders including President Billy Nungesser.

If you are planning on heading south for the holidays, be sure to check out the world-class fishing destinations in Plaquemines Parish! They are open for business and the fish are biting.

Scott Walter is presented the 2010 Beaullieu Scholarship by Ted Beaul-lieu Sr. and David Cresson during the Acadiana Sponsor Banquet.

Executive Director David Cresson and Stan Mathes at the inaugural Plaquemines Banquet.

6 On the Line Winter 2010

around the state

Despite a curtailed schedule and other challenges presented by the BP oil spill, CCA leaders are calling the 2010 STAR a suc-cess. The popularity of the summer-long fishing tournament was evident on Oct. 28 when hundreds of members and guests par-ticipated in the annual STAR Awards Banquet in Baton Rouge.

“It was touch and go at first before we could fully assess how the oil spill would impact us,” said Tournament Director Sam Barbera. “But we determined that we could still have a successful STAR by adjusting the dates to push back the start of the tournament and keep it going into October. It worked and we were happy to give out so many priz-es.”

The prizes included the BIG ONE: A 2010 Chevrolet Silverado won by Andrew Meche for landing a 2010 STAR tagged redfish in the Calcasieu Ship Channel. Prior to the tournament kickoff, CCA officials released over 50 tagged redfish in secret locations across the Louisiana coast. Over the past few years several anglers who hadn’t registered for STAR landed some of the tagged reds but couldn’t be awarded a prize. However, 2010 was the first year since 2006 that a tagged redfish was caught by a CCA member who had signed up for the tournament. The Silverado was pro-vided by four dealers that have been with CCA Louisiana for 16 years. The sponsors are Billy Navarre Chevrolet in Lake Charles, Service Chevrolet in Lafayette, Gerry Lane in Baton Rouge and Banner Chevrolet in New Orleans.

Meche has participated in STAR for many years and often makes afternoon trips in the summer along the Calcasieu Ship Channel. He was on a trip with a cousin and friends when he hooked the tagged redfish.

“When we pulled up to the rig where we were fishing, my cous-in and buddy caught two very nice trout right off the bat and I figured it was my turn,” he said. “When the tagged redfish hit, I

thought it was another decent trout. Honestly, I wanted it to be a nice trout and was kind of disappointed when I saw it was a redfish,” said Meche. “I have fished the STAR ever since I can remember but I never guessed that something like this would happen to me. It couldn’t have come at a better time.”

CCA Louisiana Executive Director David Cresson said the BP oil spill had a negative impact on this year’s participation in STAR. Participa-tion dropped about 35 percent from 2009, resulting a 20-percent loss in CCA Louisiana membership rolls.

“Being able to participate in STAR is among the top reasons people join CCA,” Cresson said. “After many consecutive years of growth, STAR was negatively impacted this year by the oil spill and the closure of large areas of the Gulf to fishing. De-spite these drops in participation and membership, CCA remains strong and our work for conservation will continue at full speed. We are looking forward to the 2011 STAR when we expect partici-pation to return to normal.”

Anglers win top prizes in successful 2010 CCA Louisiana StAR

Tagged Redfish winner Andrew Meche and STAR chairman Snoop Roth

Trout West winner Wayne McElveen is presented his boat by STAR committeeman

George Huye

Largemouth Bass East division winner Mike Bueche is announced at the start of the

STAR banquet

New Tide Trout West winner Tanner Olson

STAR committeeman Kirk Sieber congratu-lates Trout Southeast winner John Rucker

New Tide Trout East winner Cody Fife (center) is congratulated by members of the Ascension Chapter, including his father Brad Fife (right)

Kayak winner Timothy Sander and STAR Committeeman Kirk Sieber

star

Winter 2010 On the Line 7

Speckled trout – eastThe speckled trout east division winner received a 190RG Nautic Star with a 90hp Mercury OptiMax and McClain trailer, presented by Early Times Kentucky Whisky.

1. Lance Jordan 7.85 lbs Rigolets Bait & Seafood2. Jimmy Palmes 6.77 lbs Chag’s Sporting Goods3. Michael Mollere 6.30 lbs Chag’s Sporting Goods

Speckled trout – SoutheastThe speckled trout southeast division winner received a 190RG Nautic Star with a 90hp Mercury OptiMax and McClain trailer, presented by Early Times Kentucky Whisky.

1. John Rucker 7.28 lbs Bridge Side Marina 2. Cameron Ohmstede 6.06 lbs Tradewinds Marina3. Eric Nicol 5.06 lbs Bridge Side Marina

Speckled trout – SouthwestThe speckled trout southwest division winner received a 190RG Nautic Star with a 90hp Mercury OptiMax and McClain trailer, presented by Early Times Kentucky Whisky.

1. David “T-Coon” Billeaud 6.59 lbs Dago’s2. Greg Verlander 6.06 lbs Dago’s 3. Chet Schwing 5.80 lbs Dago’s

Speckled trout – WestThe speckled trout west division winner received a 190RG Nautic Star with a 90 hp Mercury OptiMax and McClain trailer, presented by Early Times Kentucky Whisky.

1. Wayne McElveen 7.68 lbs West Marine-LC2. Betty Ellender 7.68 lbs Cajun Fast Mart3. Gary Peltier 7.53 lbs Cajun Fast Mart

Mangrove SnapperThe winner received a $2,500 Offshore Tackle Package presented by Otto Candies LLC.

1. Jeff Bernard 10.50 lbs Cocahoe’s2. Kevin Guarino 10.41 lbs Dago’s3. Trey Arcemont 10.28 lbs Dago’s

LemonfishThe winner received a $2,500 Offshore Tackle Package presented by Louisiana Fish Fry.

1. Dustin Duhon 48.5 lbs Cajun Fast Mart 2. Gerald Marchand 46.92 lbs Four Point Landing3. Tina Schexnayder 40.2 lbs Don’s Boat Landing

doradoThe winner received a $2,500 Bluewater Tackle Package presented by Alutecnos.

1. Jordan Palmisano 48.70 lbs Tradewinds Marina2. Eli Lambert 3.65 lbs Tradewinds Marina

King MackerelThe winner received a $2,500 King Tackle Package presented by Royal Purple.

1. Don Quick 33.02 lbs Four Point Landing2. Trey Miller 25.45 lbs Cajun Fast Mart3. Jeff Boudreaux 21.38 lbs Four Point Landing

FlounderThe winner received a 16’ Weldbilt with a 40hp Mercury presented by Cenac Towing Co., Inc.

1. John Dupuis 5.85 lbs Cocahoes2. Joseph Davis, Jr. 4.30 lbs Rigolets Bait & Seafood3. Corey Dupuis 4.22 lbs Cocahoe’s

Fly - eastWinners received a fly fishing trip to South Florida, presented by Costa.

1. Fred Hamilton 1.16 lbs Bridge Side Marina2. Shawn Alonso 1.14 lbs Dockside3. Jay DeSalvo 1.05 lbs Breton Sound Marina

Fly - WestWinners received a fly fishing trip to South Florida, presented by Costa.

1. Michael LaFleur 1.20 lbs Dago’s2. Kevin Olson 1.00 lbs Cocahoes3. Glen Cormier 0.94 lbs Cajun Fast Mart

Kayak – eastThe winner received a Hobie kayak package. Presented by Hobie and The Backpacker.

1. Timothy Sander 3.10 lbs Rigolets Bait & Seafood2. Patrick Mitchell 2.8 lbs Gail’s Bait Shop

Kayak – SoutheastThe winner received a Hobie kayak package. Presented by Hobie and The Backpacker.

1. Devon Beltz 4.38 lbs Bridge Side Marina2. Devon Beltz 3.94 lbs Bridge Side Marina3. Devon Beltz 3.29 lbs Bridge Side Marina

Kayak – SouthwestThe winner received a Hobie kayak package. Presented by Hobie and The Backpacker.

1. Valerie Billeaud Gonsoulin 5.22 lbs Dago’s2. Leonard Bourgeois 4.56 lbs Dago’s 3. Robert Mitchell 4.35 lbs Dago’s

Kayak – WestThe winner received a Hobie kayak package. Presented by Hobie and The Backpacker.

1. Kevin Natali 6.92 lbs Cajun Fast Mart2. Wayne Lobb 5.91 lbs Cajun Fast Mart3. Kevin Natali 5.44 lbs Cajun Fast Mart

Largemouth Bass – eastThe winner won a trip to Lake Guerrero, Mexico, presented by Falcon Rods.

1. Mike Bueche 4.78 lbs CCA HQ2. Steve Rockweiler 4.64 lbs Pier 90 Marina3. Steve Rockweiler 4.16 lbs Pier 90 Marina

Largemouth Bass – WestThe winner won a trip to Lake Guerrero, Mexico, presented by Falcon Rods.

1. Jared Adams 7.05 lbs Cajun Fast Mart2. Doug Logan 6.04 lbs Cajun Fast Mart3. Michael Wingate 2.38 lbs Cajun Fast Mart

New tide Speckled troutThe winner won a 14’ Weldbilt with 15hp Mercury presented by Ca-bela’s.

East: Cody Fife, Baton Rouge, LAWest: Tanner Olson, Lake Charles, LA

New tide FlounderThe winner won a 14’ Weldbilt with 15hp Mercury presented by Ca-bela’s.

East: Peter Schwartz, Mandeville, LA West: Caleb Weber, Westlake, LA

Tagged RedfishThe first tagged Redfish weighed in won a 2010 Chevy Silverado. Spon-sored by Billy Navarre Chevrolet, Service Chevrolet, Gerry Lane Chevro-let and Banner Chevrolet.

1. Andrew Meche, Cocahoe’s at Hebert’s Marina, Lake Charles

Final 2010 StAR leaderboard star

8 On the Line Winter 2010

around the state

Connor Bourg caught this 2010 STAR tagged redfish during the CCA Livingston

Chapter Challenge in Venice. Unfortunate-ly, it was two weeks after the tournament ended! He received a nice rod and reel.

CENLA committeeman presents a tackle table to a lucky winner at the CENLA CCA

Chapter Banquet.

Hunter Self wins the Youth Division at the Lake Charles Trout Shoot Out in June.

Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nung-esser addresses the crowd at the inaugural

Plaquemines CCA Chapter Banquet.

Newly-elected New Roads mayor Robert Myer (center) visits with Pointe Coupee committeeman Jerry Hix at the Pointe

Coupee CCA Chapter Banquet.

LDWF officials host a presentation during the Cajun CCA 4H Fishing Seminar.

Gov. Bobby Jindal welcomed nearly 100 CCA members to the Governor’s Mansion, as host of the Baton Rouge

Sponsor Banquet.

Assistant Director Ryan Guerin taught the Tangi Boy Scouts all there is to know about

CCA Louisiana.

Paul Levert and Jesse Thompson catch up on fish stories at the Westside CCA Chapter

Banquet.

Evan Gonzales stands with the GMC Deal-ers with his new truck following his winning ticket being pulled at the Ascension Chap-

ter Banquet. Sam Barbera was honored for his 10 years as STAR Director before the STAR Awards

Banquet at Live Oak Arabians.

Winter 2010 On the Line 9

10 On the Line Winter 2010

If concern about the BP oil spill has kept you from fishing Louisiana’s coastal waters this fall, you might want to rethink your position. Reports from a variety of sources say the fishing is better than usu-al—even in the areas most affected by the spill.

“The spill made us keep a lot of rec-reational fishing closed throughout the summer, but now that all state waters are 100-percent open to recreational an-glers, our anglers are really seeing a lot of action,” said Randy Pausina, assistant secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. “Not only is it great to see our fishermen back out there, but it is good to know that the message that seafood is safe is really hitting home with Louisiana residents.”

Pausina said more than 700 samples of seafood have been tested without a single instance of unsafe levels being found.

“That’s crucial, because it means that seafood is safe to eat. And to help instill trust in those results, we’ve had inde-pendent labs in Louisiana do the testing,

rather than doing it in-house. We want to make sure our anglers and our consum-ers know that seafood is safe to eat—and we’ll continue to try to communicate going forward,” Pausina said.

Some fishing guides along the eastern portion of the Louisiana Gulf are also re-porting great catches.

Capt. C.T. Williams, who guides along several coastal areas including around Shell Beach and Delacroix, said fishing for redfish and speckled trout has been excel-lent—especially for close in spots that can be reached in smaller boats.

“Primarily the redfish have been fatter, more aggressive and more plentiful than usual,” Williams said. “The speckled trout have been more scattered but when you catch them they’re bigger. I don’t know if it’s because of lack of pressure over the summer but we’re seeing some nice trout this year. They’re really accessible for smaller boats and charter boats.”

Capt. Peace Marvel, who operates his charter business out of Venice, said both inshore and offshore fishing has been bet-

ter than usual, especially for tuna. Howev-er, he has noticed a slowdown in bookings for his charter service, especially from out of state.

“Get it while the getting is good,” Mar-vel advises. “The fish are eating. Inshore, the fishing has been stellar. Offshore, it’s been stellar, too. It’s been good all the way around.”

Despite good fishing conditions now, Marvel worries about the coming years. He said nobody knows how the spilled oil and dispersants impacted the spawn.

“Maybe there will be no effects, but to say it’s all over is premature,” Marvel said.

CCA STAR Director Sam Barbera said this fall he has fished around Grand Isle, Venice, Fourchon, Timbalier Island and Lake Pontchartrain.

“The redfish are everywhere. It’s incred-ible!” Barbera said. “The fall fishing prob-ably tops anything in the past five-to-seven years. I would recommend that everybody go out there, hit your regular trusted spots and do a little experimenting with other spots.”

Experts report saltwater fishing in Louisiana is fantastic

Executive Director’s Messagecontinued from page 2

resource. Without their efforts, our fish-ery would be at the mercy of those who would take from it and abuse it without regard for its well-being.

We need YOU for better fisheries dataThere is no question that one of the

biggest problems we face when it comes to fisheries management is the quality of our data. CCA has long been a lead-ing voice for data collection reform, and has helped draft federal legislation that would completely revamp the process.

That said, our members can be part of the solution every time they fish. As you probably know, 2010 was a year of transi-tion for our long-running marine fish tag-ging program. This program has been run for two decades by CCA Louisiana Hall of Famer Maumus “Timau” Claverie and is responsible for more than 100,000 tagged fish. Information generated is shared with National Marine Fisheries Service and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and is used to make informed management decisions.

Over the past year, we have imple-mented new software and have recruited hundreds of new taggers to the program.

The more information we gather, the bet-ter informed we are. That’s where you come in. Enrollment in the program is 100% free of charge. Volunteers will re-ceive a tagging kit and instructions in the mail. It’s convenient and easy, and you become part of the solution. Whether you tag five fish per year or 5,000, your participation and the data it generates is invaluable. To find out more about the tagging program, call coordinator Tony Berrigan at (800) 567-2182.

Reaching out to the kidsEvery bit of available data out there

tells us that fewer and fewer kids are participating in recreational fishing. We all know the reasons…but how do we re-verse the trend? There are some excel-lent efforts going on across the country to promote recreational fishing, especial-ly amongst youth. Programs like Keep America Fishing and TakeMeFishing.org are movements that are having very posi-tive effects, and both are supported by CCA. CCA members are encouraged to check out each of these excellent pro-grams.

Last year, CCA and Cabela’s teamed up to make STAR free to kids 16 and under. Earlier this year, CCA Louisiana partnered

with 4-H Clubs in Louisiana to create the CCA / 4-H Youth Fishing Seminar Series. In this program, CCA volunteers work with their local 4-H Clubs to give seminars where kids are taught about fishing tech-niques, tools, safety tips, fishing regula-tions, conservation tactics, careers, and more. In addition, every youth participant receives a certificate of completion and a free one-year CCA New Tide Member-ship courtesy of Regions Bank. During 2010, several of our local chapters held successful seminars for hundreds of 4-H members. For more information, visit our website at ccalouisiana.com.

These are just a few of the issues fac-ing our fisheries. There are many others, and you can rest assured that CCA is en-gaged in all of them. Your membership and support makes that possible.

Please enjoy a wonderful and restful Christmas, a joyous holiday season and a great New Year…and while you have a bit of time over the coming weeks, be sure to take a kid fishing. You will be glad you did!

around the state

David

Winter 2010 On the Line 11

Coastal Conservation Association MeMbership ApplicAtion & 2011 stAr entry

Name ___________________________________________ Phone __________________________ E-mail _________________________

Address ____________________________________________ City __________________________ State _________ Zip ___________

❑New Membership ❑Renewal Membership (Member ID#________________) ❑Gift Membership

❑ MEMBERSHIP ONLY: $ 25 Membership card, window decal, bumper stickers, TIDE magazine.❑ STAR ENTRY FEE: $ 25 Tournament entry fee. You MUST be a current member (adult or youth).❑ MEMBER + STAR: $ 50 All of the above plus 2011 STAR entry fee. ❑ ASSOCIATE MEMBER: $ 15 Per each adult family member. All member privileges except TIDE.❑ ASSOCIATE + STAR: $ 40 Same as above plus 2011 STAR entry fee.❑ NEWTIDE(YOUTH): $10 RisingTidenewsletter,logopatch&decal,iron-onT-shirttransfer,redfishsticker. For members 17-and-under only.❑ NEW TIDE STAR: FREE Same as above for youth, plus 2011 STAR entry fee.❑ LIFE MEMBER: $ 1,000 Print plus special conservation gifts. Payable in four $250 installments.

W10OL

I understand that there are specific rules governing the conduct of the 2011 STARBy entering this tournament I agree to be bound by the 2011 STAR Tournament Rules, Release & Indemnity Agreement. (Membership in CCA Louisiana is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.)CCALouisiana•P.O.Box86458•BatonRouge,LA70879•Phone(225)952-9200•Fax(225)952-9204•www.CCALouisiana.com

METHOD OF PAYMENT

❑ Check or Money Order enclosed ❑ Credit Card ❑MasterCard ❑Visa ❑AmEx ❑Discover

Credit Card Number

Exp. Date _______________________________________________________Parent/Guardian Signature of New Tide Member or Buyer of Gift Membership

Coastal Conservation AssociationPost Office Box 86458Baton Rouge, LA 70879

Non-Profit organizationU.S. Postage

PAidBaton Rouge, LAPermit No. 615

Your official CCA Louisiana membership expires on the

date shown here. If the date has passed...please keep us

strong...please renew...even online at

www.CCALouisiana.com

kidshotskidshots

Drew O’Quinn caught this nice 5.56 lb trout in Calcasieu Lake at the beginning of STAR. Great fish Drew!!!

A Special Gift to CCA Louisiana...with benefitsAs we approach the end of 2010, one of the best ways to reduce

your tax basis is by donating to CCA. Such a donation will help to conserve our saltwater fisheries and our right to enjoy them. When most people think of donating, they most likely think of donating cash. However, there is a much more advantageous way for a taxpayer to do so – donate intangible personal property such as stock where you have a long term capital gain.

Enjoy a double advantage when you donate appreciated long-term capital gain property (property held more than one year), like stock or real property. Avoid capital gains taxes that otherwise would have been incurred on the potential profit upon disposition of the property, and receive a deduction for the full fair market value of the gift. Example: Suppose you donate stock worth $25,000 to CCA Louisiana. The stock cost you $12,000 when you purchased it four years ago. By donating the stock to charity, you avoid the tax on the $13,000 capital gain and receive a potential income tax deduction (depending on your adjusted gross income) of $25,000, the full market value of the gift.

CCA Louisiana has set up an account in order to receive gifts of securities and some members have already taken advantage of this. Please contact David Cresson in the CCA Louisiana office at (225) 952-9200 for more information.

AtteNtioN ALL MeMBeRS!Are you receiving your monthly e-newsletter? if not, let us know!

Keep up to the minute on conservation issues and events. don’t miss out!

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