VIMS is trying to determine if the strains of specks in North Carolina are the same as the strains in Maryland, and even dialing it down more to see if Eastern Shore specks are different (or the same) as those caught on the Bay’s lower western shore. According to Captain Chris Newsome, another top guide who fishes out of Gloucester, VA, on the western side, there are two key aspects to consider when it comes to a highlyprized sportfish such as speckled trout—increasing carrying capacity and conservative management. He points out that, sadly, much of the Bay’s key shallow water habitat—oyster reefs and eel grass—have declined significantly, especially oysters. His suggestion is not just to build more three-dimensional oyster reefs, but to also place them in shallow water where these reefs will provide the most benefit as nursery habitat for a variety of marine life, including speckled trout. Captain Newsome and many others also support increasing the frequency of the North Carolina
stock assessment. More data available to managers usually means a more effective plan for species such as speckled trout. “Managers are often left to make assumptions off old data since specks are short-lived and prone to variable natural mortality due to extreme cold periods,” Newsome adds. “With a species such as speckled trout, managers need to take a conservative management approach. This means managing much closer to theoretical carrying capacity than maximum sustainable yield.” Captain Newsome voices the concerns of many when he says those who wantonly poach should face stiffer penalties, and managers should look at reducing or ending wasteful practices like haul seining and shallow water gill netting. After many conversations with sport fishermen and fishery experts, it’s clear to me spotted seatrout are held in such high regard that we should be doing everything possible to enhance this special fish’s abundance. #
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Spotted Seatrout Family ties: Drum family, cousins to spot, croakers, black and red drums, and kingfish. Appearance: Silvery belly, dark, grayishgreen back, iridescent sides; black, roundish spots scattered across its back and dorsal fin to its tail. Two canine teeth in upper jaw. Where they live: Shallow, grass flats and sandy-bottom; also around structures. Most common in the lower Bay, but range as far north as Annapolis. What they eat: Small fish (minnows, anchovies), crabs, peanut bunker (juvenile). How they live: Females spawn nine to 60 times, releasing three to 20 million eggs during a single season. Form schools at six to eight weeks, mature at two to four years old, lifespan 15-18 years. World record: 17 pounds, 7 ounces. Maryland record: 16 lbs., 6 oz. Virginia record: 16 lbs.
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