Current Issues

Current Issues

ASA's dedicated Government Affairs Team advocates on behalf of our nation's fisheries, keeping more anglers on the water.

Key Issues

  • Vessel Speed Restrictions for Right Whales Will Prevent Access

    The recreational fishing community cares about whale conservation but we need a smarter approach!

  • Protect the Use of Traditional Tackle

    Efforts are underway to prevent the use of lead tackle for fishing despite scant evidence that using lead has a harmful impact on wildlife populations.

  • Support Youth Fishing Programs

    Taking kids fishing just a few times creates a lifelong love of the sport!

  • Recovering America’s Wildlife Act

    Fish and wildlife habitat is being lost across the country!

  • SHARKED Act 

    New legislation focuses on addressing sharks eating anglers’ catch.  

  • America’s Outdoor Recreation Act / EXPLORE Act

    Better access and better fishing on federal lands and waters.

Current Issues

  • 30 x 30 Initiative

    Establishing a goal of protecting 30% of globe’s land and water by the year 2030.

  • Aquatic Invasive Species

    Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) present one of the biggest threats and challenges to sportfishing today as their continued spread has a multitude of negative impacts on fisheries, ecosystems, and local economies.

  • California 30 x 30

    The “30 by 30” initiative is a global goal to conserve 30 percent of all land and water on the planet by 2030.

  • California Proposition 65

    Proposed boat speed restrictions could have dire consequences for East Coast anglers.

  • Drift Gillnets

    Large mesh drift gillnets — which are a mile long, nearly invisible and set out overnight near the ocean’s surface to capture swordfish — are responsible for entangling, injuring and killing a wide range of marine life.

  • Everglades

    The Florida Everglades are not only an environmental wonder but also provide essential “plumbing” to move water south in the state, recharging the Biscayne Aquifer and ultimately supplying necessary freshwater to Florida Bay.

  • Farm Bill

    Agriculture has a major impact on fisheries policy and the conservation of species.