From the MD Department of Natural Resources
Rockfish / Striped Bass – The fishery will reopen on Tuesday, September 3rd. It will remain open Tuesdays and Wednesdays only until the total quota for the month (set at 75,000lbs) has been hit. If the guys catch them in the quantities they have been the season may only be open for 3-4 days.
Crabs – We all know that this has been a horrible year for crabs. Crab harvests are very low and sporadic. Picking houses are having trouble getting crabs to keep up with the demand. We know that it is difficult for the restaurants right now. We just ask that if you can’t get Maryland crab meat that you at least buy domestic. The crabbers are telling us that there are a lot of small crabs out there which bodes well for next season.
Seafood Fraud – Our friends at Oceana are working on getting a SAFE Seafood Act passed in congress. This act would require that all seafood is labeled with species and origin information. They are looking for chefs to sign onto the letter (which you can view HERE). Anyone that’s interested in adding their support should send their name, title, affiliation, city and state to Amelia at[email protected]. Please let them know we sent you.
Coastal Waters – The guys on the Atlantic coast are currently seeing a lot of high quality fluke, but they are also seeing some local tuna and scallops!
Free Chef Education Trips – We are looking at 2 dates for our next trip! Whichever receives 10 reservations first will be booked. The dates are September 17th or September 26th. Please reply to this email if you are interested and let me know which day works best.
Bay Waters – We are starting to see the return of various species in the bay. The pound netters in the mid-bay are catching a great assortment of fish. Butterfish, croakers, spot, catfish, and ribbonfish (pictured below) are all available. Speak with your wholesaler about getting some of these products.
Demo Volunteers – A huge thank you to all of our friends that have agreed to help us out with the aquarium and seafood festival demos. We greatly appreciate you guys!
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