Factual Corrections on Menhaden Fisheries Management
Date: October 6, 2026
Location: Washington, D.C.
Source: American Small Pelagics Network
In a recent episode of “The Qualified Captain,” host Aaron Stasiak interviewed Whit Fosburgh regarding menhaden fisheries management. The discussion included several statements made by Fosburgh that have been identified as conflicting with documented facts. Below are twelve key factual corrections.
1. Striped Bass Recovery
Fosburgh’s Claim: The ASMFC concluded that reducing the menhaden quota would give striped bass only a 50-50 chance of recovery.
Correction: The ASMFC’s stock projections do not indicate probabilities of striped bass recovery but rather focus on ecological fishing mortality targets.
2. Menhaden Age Assumptions
Fosburgh’s Claim: Scientists assumed menhaden would not live beyond 4½ years.
Correction: There is no evidence supporting this assumption; the ASMFC utilizes age-specific natural mortality rates and data shows fish older than 4½ years exist.
3. Economic Benefits
Fosburgh’s Claim: Menhaden are primarily shipped abroad.
Correction: Omega Protein reports that 70% of sales were to U.S. customers, demonstrating significant local economic contributions.
4. Osprey Nest Outcomes
Fosburgh’s Claim: 90% of osprey nests fail due to lack of food.
Correction: A 2026 study reported much lower failure rates in specific areas; no direct causal relationship with industrial fishing was established.
5. Stock Status and Ecosystem Management
Fosburgh’s Claim: The official finding of no overfishing is solely an industry defense.
Correction: NOAA’s conclusion is a scientific finding, and menhaden management incorporates ecological reference points.
6. Natural Mortality Assumptions
Fosburgh’s Claim: Managers increased the quota after changing natural mortality assumptions.
Correction: The ASMFC documented a correction that did not suddenly benefit the fishing industry.
7. Predator Losses
Fosburgh’s Claim: Current menhaden harvest reduces striped bass by about 30%.
Correction: This figure misrepresents the findings of a 2017 study that had significant limitations in its conclusions.
8. Claims of Menhaden Absence
Fosburgh’s Claim: Menhaden are no longer seen along the East Coast.
Correction: Official reports indicate that menhaden are abundant in various regions along the coast.
9. Ownership and Regulatory Review
Fosburgh’s Claim: Cooke created Ocean Harvesters to circumvent fishing restrictions.
Correction: These accusations were dismissed in a court ruling which found no merit.
10. Effect of Quota Reduction
Fosburgh’s Claim: Reducing the menhaden quota saved no fish.
Correction: The quota reduction establishes a lower harvest ceiling compared to historical landings.
11. Gulf Bycatch Numbers
Fosburgh’s Claim: 150 million non-target fish are killed annually in Louisiana.
Correction: This figure is based on a single season’s estimate rather than a recurring number.
12. Employment and Economic Losses
Fosburgh’s Claim: Thousands of jobs are lost due to the menhaden fishery.
Correction: There is no substantial economic analysis provided to substantiate this claim, especially considering the job maintenance due to menhaden fishing.
Conclusion: The discrepancies highlighted above underscore the necessity for accurate information in discussions regarding fisheries management. The American Small Pelagics Network remains committed to sustainable practices that benefit both marine ecosystems and local economies.
For more information, contact:
Stove Boat Communications
Phone: (202) 595-1212
Email: contact@smallpelagics.com
