Study Shows Menhaden Industry’s Impact on Redfish is Low

Categories: Louisiana Business NewsLouisiana EducationLouisiana LifestyleLouisiana News

Menhaden fishing boats operating in the scenic waters of Louisiana.

News Summary

A recent study of the menhaden industry in Louisiana reveals that bycatch levels are just 3.6% by weight, reducing concerns regarding its effect on local redfish populations. The industry accounted for approximately 30,000 redfish deaths in 2024, significantly less than recreational fishing, which led to over 791,000 reported catches. The findings indicate that while the menhaden industry plays a vital economic role, it also brings about concerns from conservationists regarding fish mortality and spawning populations.

Louisiana – A recent study conducted on the menhaden industry in Louisiana has shown that the overall bycatch is below state law limits, measured at just 3.6% by weight. This finding alleviates some concerns regarding the menhaden industry’s impact on the local redfish population, indicating that the industry is less detrimental than previously feared.

In 2024, the menhaden industry was estimated to have killed approximately 30,000 redfish (red drum), a figure that is significantly lower than the mortality caused by recreational fishing. Recreational anglers reported a catch of over 791,000 redfish for the same year, not including those fish that were discarded and later died. Over the past decade, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has estimated that from 2015 to 2024, the menhaden industry was responsible for about 9.9% of total redfish mortality by weight, while recreational anglers accounted for a substantial 90.1%.

Furthermore, the menhaden industry was projected to have caused approximately 2.7% of trout mortality by weight during the same period. The study, overseen by the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission and funded by the Louisiana Legislature, involved data collection over seven months aboard commercial menhaden vessels to assess the impact on various fish species.

One critical finding of this study revealed that fish released directly from menhaden nets exhibited a significantly higher survival rate compared to fish that entered the boats’ chute systems, which had a survival rate of only 2%. The report noted that the menhaden industry has been actively upgrading its equipment, specifically implementing excluder devices to enhance fish survival rates within their catch.

The study’s findings have provoked mixed reactions among stakeholders. Officials from the menhaden industry see the results as an indication of their operations being unfairly targeted, while conservationists have raised concerns regarding the mortality of spawning-age redfish. Additionally, State Representative Joe Orgeron acknowledged the study as a valuable resource that establishes a baseline for understanding the industry and its effects on redfish populations.

The menhaden industry plays a significant role in Louisiana’s economy, supporting approximately 700 jobs and contributing about $25 million in state and local taxes. However, the ongoing conversation surrounding the industry highlights the tensions between commercial fishing and recreational fishing communities, especially regarding the health of redfish populations.

In response to these concerns, adjustments to fishing regulations have been made, such as extending the buffer zone for menhaden fishing from a quarter-mile to half-a-mile offshore in several regions. Reports have also indicated that tens of millions of smaller fish, which are vital to the marine food chain, have died as bycatch during menhaden fishing activities.

As the debate continues regarding the balance between commercial fishing interests and the health of the redfish and trout populations, this new study provides crucial data to inform future management decisions and regulatory adjustments. The menhaden industry’s impact, both economically and ecologically, will remain a significant aspect of conversation as stakeholders work toward a sustainable approach to fishing in Louisiana’s waters.