November 6, 2013 — It is not often that fish science reaches out and touches families. But this Monday three partners will turn a scientific fish monitoring survey into a recreational fishing experience for several Narragansett families.
For the second year in a row, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), in conjunction with the RI Party and Charter Boat Association (RIPCBA) and the Narragansett Department of Parks and Recreation, will take families fishing while collecting samples of tautog. Approximately 200 samples of tautog in a diverse range of sizes will be collected annually for analysis in a scientific monitoring program. Data collected during the survey is used in the age structured stock assessment for that species.
Dan Costa, Galilee port manger in DEM's Division of Fish & Wildlife, came up with the idea last year of taking families fishing while the tautog samples are collected. Samples collected include legal size tautog (16" or larger) as well as smaller fish for analysis. Families benefit from the fishing experience and take the tautog filets home to eat. The fish racks are kept for the research study.
Capt. John Rainone of L'il Toot Charters (past president of the RIPCBA) said, "This is the second year we have taken Narragansett families fishing for this study and this year we were able to expand it with more boats." The vessels taking families fishing include charter boats "Priority Too," operated by Capt. Rick Bellavance; "Sea Devil," operated by Capt. Kelly Smith; "L'il Toot," operated by Capt. John Rainone; "Bare Bones," operated by Capt. Steven Anderson; and "Carol J," operated by Capt. Paul Johnson. All participating vessels are members of the Rhode Island Party & Charter Boat Association.
Read the full story at the Cranston Herald