Recreational Fishing and Boating Industry Leaders Advocate on Capitol Hill During Center Focus on Washington
Washington, D.C. – May 15, 2019 – The Center for Sportfishing Policy (CSP) hosted its annual fly-in “Center Focus on Washington,” May 14-15. The event brought recreational fishing and boating industry leaders together to participate in important discussions with key policymakers. As in years past, CSP co-located its fly-in with the American Boating Congress (ABC), the marine industry’s premier political and legislative event, hosted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
Key issues for ABC and Center Focus participants included: enforcement of the Modern Fish Act; ensuring robust public access to federally managed waters and improving recreation infrastructure; conserving our natural marine resources; protecting unmanaged forage fish, and many other topics.
“Fifteen years ago, we were fighting for a seat at the table. Yet today, we are achieving major victories such as the passage of the Modern Fish Act and state management of Gulf red snapper,” said Jeff Angers, president of the Center for Sportfishing Policy. “Recreational anglers and boaters are finally seeing positive results from years of advocating with one, loud voice. Together we are making a difference for the millions of Americans who enjoy recreational fishing and boating, and it is full steam ahead as we tackle challenges in the 116th Congress.”
At its annual board meeting on May 15, CSP instated newly elected members to its board of directors.
“These are exciting times for recreational anglers and boaters, and we are fortunate at CSP to have passionate volunteer leaders working to ensure a bright future for America’s 11 million saltwater anglers,” said Angers. “We pay our respects to our dear friend Curtis Bostick, former CSP treasurer, who passed away in February. As a founder of Coastal Conservation Association Florida, Curtis devoted his time, talent and treasure to marine conservation and recreational fishing. He is missed by our community.”
Elected to serve three-year terms:
- Dave Bulthuis, vice president of government affairs and industry relations, Costa Del Mar
- Tim Choate
- Thom Dammrich, president of NMMA
- Chairman Bob Hayes
- John Paul Morris, general manager, online, Bass Pro Shops
- Treasurer Mike Nussman
Elected to one-year terms:
- Annual Member Director Chris Butler, president of Butler Marine
- Corporate Member Director Tommy Hancock, president of Sportsman Boats
- Corporate Member Director Joe Neber, president of Contender Boats
- Life Member Director Mitch Brownlee, chairman of CCA National
The Center for Sportfishing Policy is the nation’s leading advocate for saltwater recreational anglers. The Center organizes, focuses and engages recreational fishing stakeholders to shape federal marine fisheries management policies. For more information, visit www.SportfishingPolicy.com.