Virginia is the only state that allows reduction fishing in its estuaries and rivers. Others restrict it to the ocean where adults are found. Taking 1-2 year old menhaden in the Bay has had the effect of depleting an important food source for Rockfish and other game fish in the Bay. This has lead to decreased spawning and to stress on the populations of these fish. It has also lead to increased feeding by rockfish on small crabs to make up for the loss of menhaden. 

Follow the lead of Maryland and ban the taking of menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay for reduction fishing. Taking 112 million pounds of this keystone fish to make fertilizer and pet food makes no sense. It is too valuable to the Chesapeake fisheries to be taken in such large quantities. Stop it now. Make Omega  Protein find its menhaden out in the ocean.