California's early 30x30 efforts under AB 3030 created confusion, chaos, and distrust. We look at the lessons learned from that approach and discuss a productive path towards for U.S. Fisheries, 30x30 and MPA Expansion Lessons learned from early 30x30 efforts and how to proceed nationally.

U.S. based no-catch marine protected areas (MPAs) do not increase fisheries productivity. Current fisheries management tools are far superior. We explore the peer reviewed research and studies that explain why no-fishing MPAs are not the solution needed for the U.S. 30x30 plan.

Earlier this year, the WSL launched the We Are One Ocean campaign in support of global 30x30 goals. AFTCO, along with surfers who fish, and other recreational ocean users felt the original petition could potentially lead to unnecessary recreational fishing restrictions.

The sportfishing community supports conservation efforts that protect and enhance biodiversity and conservation. We agree with many of the goals of 30x30, but we do not agree that 30x30 should include restricting the fishing public’s access to public waters “just because.”

We greatly appreciate We Are One Ocean’s dedication to protecting our global oceans and commend you for including a few participants from the scuba and sailing worlds in this effort. We are writing to request that the voice of one of the largest utilizers of the ocean resource—the fishing community—is included as well.

Recreational anglers in the U.S. have a long history of having to fight for fair and equitable treatment at the hands of legislators and fishery managers