The James River Association supports the petition to establish a managed recreational Hickory Shad fishery in Virginia’s coastal rivers and tributaries. Hickory Shad are an essential migratory species, contributing significantly to the ecological health of our waterways and providing valued recreational fishing opportunities and the associated economic impact. By transitioning from unrestricted harvest to a regulated fishery, we can ensure that Hickory Shad populations remain robust, sustaining not only the species itself but also the communities and ecosystems that depend on them. A managed fishery informed by the best available data is a necessary step toward preserving this resource for future generations while supporting ongoing shad and herring restoration efforts.

Additionally, any action that focuses on conserving Hickory Shad must also be mindful of the protection of American Shad, which are critically imperiled in the James River and other tributaries. Accidental harvest of American Shad remains a significant concern, and careful management is essential to ensuring that conservation gains are not jeopardized. We must prioritize the protection of both species through regulations that promote sustainability and responsible stewardship, aligning with the broader goals of habitat restoration and species recovery. The James River Association supports this petition as a crucial measure for sustaining both the recreational and ecological benefits of Hickory Shad, while safeguarding the continued recovery of American Shad.