State agency safeguarding parks, forests, waterways, wildlife, and recreation
Scientists say striped bass populations along the East Coast are declining due to a mix of warming waters, drought, altered river flows, pollution and predation. The $8 billion fishing industry risks losses and jobs as regulators consider tighter limits and possible moratoria to protect spawning stock. Montauk guides and anglers reflect on dwindling catches and the culture built around the hunt.