Snap-a-Striper

Snap-a-Striper is a truly unique research project, and I feel lucky to be a part of it for a number of reasons. Here are just a few...

Catch and Release:  As an angler, I’m a big fan of catch and release. As a scientist, I currently have to harvest and dissect the fish I study. The end goal of this project is that we’ll know where a striper comes from just by the shape of its body. All the data we’ll need will be in the fishermen’s photos. That means more fish in the ocean, and less in my lab.

Dealing with Climate Change: It’s so important for us scientists to know the effects of warming oceans on fish. This project will show us the status of Maine stripers now, so in the future we can compare changes in temperature to changes in the fish population.

Recreational anglers get a say: One of the coolest parts of the project is that local sportfishermen can engage in real science to protect a species we all love.

Local Jobs: I grew up making my living on the water, and I know how tough it can be. While stripers aren’t harvested commercially here in Maine, the recreational fishery supports jobs in tourism along our coast, from charter boats, to tackle shops, to bed and breakfasts.

Stripers are important in so many ways and the more we can learn about them, the better. I love this program, and can’t wait to take it to the next level. Oh, and if you haven’t had a chance to try striper fishing yourself – get out and try it this summer. And don’t forget to snap a photo for us!