Government Affairs

Working for You

Working for You

Advocating for access to fish, abundant fisheries, and fair trade and commerce.

There’s a lot of politics in fishing. No really, there is. From bans on your tackle to the creation of no-fishing zones, our nation’s pastime is often under threat of being over-regulated, or worse, being completely taken away.

Through policy, science and conservation, the Government Affairs team of the American Sportfishing Association works to minimize access restrictions, promote clean waters and restore fish populations. Despite our successes in Congress, state houses and at federal agencies, we all know it’s the power of the people that will influence positive change. That’s where our Keep America Fishing campaign and our network of nearly one million supporters comes in.

Our Action Center gives the sportfishing community a place to learn about the issues affecting time on the water and access to fish. When millions of Americans unite and urge our political leaders to vote in favor of recreational fishing, they will listen.

From Local to National, We’re Tackling the Issues

From Florida to California and everywhere in between, fishing is under attack.

Loss of access to prime fishing spots, unwarranted bag limit reductions and shortened seasons, and restrictions on tackle are all issues our grandparents wouldn’t have dreamed of. And even if there’s nothing going on in your area today, rulings across the country are setting dangerous precedents that could affect you tomorrow.

Our Government Affairs Team

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

Mike Leonard

VICE PRESIDENT OF
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Mike Waine

Michael Waine

ATLANTIC FISHERIES POLICY DIRECTOR

Martha Guyas

SOUTHEAST FISHERIES POLICY DIRECTOR

Larry Phillips

PACIFIC FISHERIES POLICY DIRECTOR

Gary Jennings

Gary Jennings

KEEP FLORIDA FISHING DIRECTOR

Theresa Weber

POLICY FELLOW

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Stay informed about the issues that affect anglers in your home state and across the country and influence policy by making your voice heard.