There are too many varied opinions about how the menhaden population is overfished. I have been involved in the mehaden fishing business for many years. When I was growing up there were 4 menhaden plants operating on Cockerels Creek. One on the Reedville side and 4 on the Fairport side with many vessels. Now you just have one plant operating with what 6 or 7 vessels. This is a reduction in itself. 

There are many opinions and articles but it seems to me that as others have stated they are based upon unproven facts or incorrect science. A lot of families depend upon the Menhaden Industry to feed their families plus the county depends upon the tax revenue and then you have the companies that also depend upon the fish meal, fish oil and other by-products of the menhaden.