By Heather Knight
Elmore Autauga News
A proposed rule by the Alabama Fisheries Advisory Board could bring significant changes to fishing tournaments along the Coosa River and its lakes, sparking concerns about the economic and cultural impact. The regulation suggests implementing a slot limit for black bass during fishing tournaments, prohibiting participants from possessing any fish measuring between 14 and 20 inches.
While recreational anglers would still be allowed to keep up to 10 fish within this size range, this rule could effectively eliminate the viability of organized bass tournaments in the area. Alarmingly, under the proposed rule, even a single fish measuring within this range in a competitor’s live well would disqualify them.
The Coosa River spans several beloved Alabama lakes, including Weiss Lake, Neely Henry Lake, Logan Martin Lake, Lay Lake, Mitchell Lake, Jordan Lake, and Walter Bouldin Lake, all renowned for their vibrant fishing scenes and the economic benefits they bring to their surrounding communities.
Lisa Van Wagner, Executive Director of Elmore County Economic Development, underscored the economic ramifications if the regulation is approved.
“If adopted, this proposal could be devastating to our economy,” she said. “Fishing tournaments contribute millions annually to our local economy. In Elmore County, we have the lowest property tax rates in the state, and these tournaments provide a critical source of revenue.”
Fishing tournaments are more than recreational events, they are vital economic drivers. From hotels and restaurants to local bait shops and gas stations, these events provide significant revenue streams for small businesses. In Elmore County and other communities along the Coosa River, the economic benefits are profound, especially in areas that depend on tourism and outdoor recreation.
What has fueled further controversy is the process by which the regulation might be enacted. As an appointed body, the Alabama Fisheries Advisory Board has the authority to impose these rules without requiring approval from elected officials. This has led to criticism from local stakeholders, who believe such impactful decisions should be subject to broader public input and legislative oversight.
In response, a coalition of anglers, business owners, and community leaders has begun mobilizing to oppose the proposal. Many have reached out to state representatives and initiated campaigns to raise awareness about the potential economic fallout.
The Coosa River has long been celebrated for its thriving bass fishing tournaments, drawing thousands of anglers and spectators annually. These events not only showcase the natural beauty of Alabama’s waterways but also play an integral role in sustaining the local economy.
For now, the future of these tournaments, and the economic stability they provide, remains uncertain. As the debate continues, stakeholders are calling for careful consideration of the proposal’s far-reaching implications, urging decision-makers to prioritize both environmental sustainability and economic vitality.
Alabama Student Angler Bass Fishing Association recently posted to their Facebook page, “Please help us by reaching out and voicing your concern over this proposed regulation. The contact information for those in charge of this decision is listed below.” You can find their statement along with who to contact to oppose this regulation HERE.