New Fish & Wildlife rules may disrupt Vermont’s panfish market.

Proposed Changes to Vermont's Fishing Regulations: A Ripple Effect on the Panfish Market

Vermont's commercial panfish market, a lucrative yet lesser-known industry, is on the cusp of significant change. Proposed regulations from the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board could transform the landscape of fishing in the state, stirring up concerns among fishermen and fishmongers. This not only impacts anglers but also the local economy reliant on this unique fishery.

The Controversial Regulations

During a recent public meeting at the St. Albans Town Education Center, tensions simmered as approximately three dozen anglers gathered to voice their apprehensions. Key elements of the proposed regulations include a ban on the sale of crappie and new limits on the daily catch for recreational anglers. The Department of Fish & Wildlife argues that these changes aim to promote sustainable fish populations and curb illegal fishing practices.

Adam Dunkling, a recreational fisher from Westford, expressed his frustration. “How can they push a law like this down our throats?” he questioned, reflecting the sentiment of many concerned stakeholders. It's crucial to understand that this debate is not merely about regulations; it's a question of livelihood and tradition within Vermont.

A Unique Market: Who Sells Panfish?

Vermont stands out in the U.S. as one of the few states allowing recreational anglers to sell their catch legally. Anglers with a sportfishing license can sell several panfish species, like crappie, perch, and bluegill, provided they adhere to haul limits. It's against the law for recreational anglers in neighboring states like Massachusetts and New York to turn a profit from their catches, making Vermont a rare source of wild panfish.

Consequently, a vibrant cottage industry has developed over the years, although its growth has recently stagnated due to changing demographics and climate shifts affecting the fishing seasons. The Department of Fish & Wildlife reports that since 2013, exports of panfish to Canada—where the fish is often processed—dropped from approximately $9 million to about $1 million per year.

Understanding the Supply Chain

Recreational anglers primarily sell their fish to local bait shops, which then supply Ray’s Seafood Market in Essex Junction, a central hub for fish distribution in the state. From there, the fish may be processed and sent to markets in cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. However, tracking the flow of fish has proven difficult for state officials. Current regulations only require a limited number of shops to report their purchases, leaving a considerable blind spot in understanding the panfish market's scope.

The Proposed Fish Sellers Endorsement

To address this lack of oversight, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board has proposed introducing a "Fish Sellers Endorsement". This would require any recreational angler wishing to sell fish to report their sales to the state. Fisheries biologist Shawn Good explained, “We have no clue how many people are selling fish,” emphasizing the need for better regulation.

Furthermore, concerns about sustainable fishing practices have led to proposed restrictions on crappie sales. Crappies often fetch more than $3 a pound locally—double that of other panfish—and can be valued up to $30 a pound by the time they reach online wholesalers. Such financial incentives raise the possibility of illegal sales, complicating regulatory efforts.

A Community Divided

The proposed regulations have sparked controversy. Although supporters claim they are necessary to maintain fish populations and ensure legal practices, many in the fishing community feel overlooked. Paul Dunkling of Ray’s Seafood emphasized that the panfish industry provides jobs and supports numerous families. He stated, “Anything they take away is going to hurt.”

Opponents have launched a petition against the proposed rules, gathering over 200 signatures in their quest to protect their livelihoods. Jeremiah Nichols, a stonemason and angler, articulated the deep connection many have to fishing. “The fishing helps with gas, new wiper blades, and peace of mind,” he shared, painting a picture of how interconnected fishing is with everyday life in Vermont.

Looking Ahead: The State's Decision

The Fish and Wildlife Board will continue accepting public comments on these proposed regulations until April 7, 2025, with an expected vote later this summer. If implemented, the new rules could significantly impact the panfish industry, which has faced ongoing challenges over the past decade.

As climate change shifts fishing conditions, the younger generation also shows declining interest in panfishing compared to their predecessors. The reliability of ice fishing, particularly in warmer winters, is diminishing—a trend noted by fisheries biologists.

As Vermont grapples with balancing sustainable practices and community livelihoods, the proposed regulations may serve as a turning point, shaping the future of the state’s panfish market. This unfolding narrative illustrates the profound relationship between environmental stewardship and economic survival—a dynamic that resonates far beyond the shores of Lake Champlain.