This week on the podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Andy Strelcheck, NOAA's Southeast Regional Fisheries Administrator. We talked about everything from fisheries regulations to data collection methods. 

Andy provided a ton of insight into how NOAA works with state agencies like the FWC, the challenges of managing both commercial and recreational fisheries, and even delved into the complexities of assessing the Southeast's favorite—red snapper. 

We also discussed innovations in data collection, the importance of using descending devices, and how to get involved in fisheries management councils and advisory panels. If you care about our ocean’s fish populations and sustainable fishing practices, this is a must-listen! 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:24 NOAA's Role and Public Perception

01:48 Goals and Collaboration with State Authorities

04:08 Data Collection Challenges

06:24 Commercial vs. Recreational Data Collection

07:24 Release Mortality and Observation Methods

10:33 Regulations on Descending Devices and Venting Tools

14:13 Understanding Fisheries Management Structure

22:34 Red Snapper Population and Management

29:43 Data Collection Methods in Fisheries

30:41 Challenges and Criticisms in Sampling

31:19 The Gold Standard: Fishery Independent Surveys

38:18 Technological Advances in Data Processing

41:02 Cooperative Research and Citizen Science

43:10 Grouper Regulations and Population Management

45:27 Shark Management and Population Trends

57:46 Recreational Anglers' Role in Fisheries Management

01:00:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

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