County Leaders Put Ordinance to Rest

County Council members voted 6-1 to withdraw a proposed ordinance that would have restricted surf fishing, effectively putting the issue to rest.

1. Key Players
2. Greg Haskins, a local angler and shark conservationist
3. Raymond Newton, a council member
4. Clint Elliott, council chairman

“Let it die.” — Councilwoman Stella Mercado

The proposed ordinance, which would have restricted surf fishing from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 30, was initially intended to reduce the risk of injury to beachgoers by prohibiting shark fishing. However, many fishermen and recreational anglers argued that the ordinance was too restrictive and would threaten the county’s tradition of outdoor recreation. Background

* The proposed ordinance was first suggested as a way to reduce the risk of injury to beachgoers. * Officials stated that the ordinance would prohibit shark fishing from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 30. * Many fishermen and recreational anglers argued that the ordinance was too restrictive and would threaten the county’s tradition of outdoor recreation. Concerns Over the Proposed Ordinance

* Restrictive nature of the ordinance: Many fishermen and recreational anglers argued that the ordinance was too restrictive and would limit their ability to engage in surf fishing. * Impact on the community: The ordinance could have a significant impact on the local economy, as surf fishing is a significant source of revenue for the county. * Alternative solutions: Some argued that alternative solutions, such as education and outreach programs, could be implemented to reduce the risk of injury to beachgoers. Consequences of the Proposed Ordinance

* Legal challenges: The proposed ordinance inspired a local angler and a shark conservation group to sue Horry County over its ban on shark fishing from beaches. * Public outcry: The proposed ordinance sparked a significant public outcry, with many residents expressing their opposition to the ordinance. * County council vote: County Council members ultimately voted 6-1 to remove the ordinance from the agenda and from further consideration. State Regulations

* State law requirements: State law requires a saltwater recreational fishing license to fish for sharks, unless on a licensed public fishing pier or charter vessel. * Gear, retrieval, catch limits, and size limits: Certain state and/or federal requirements exist for gear, retrieval, catch limits, and size limits for catching sharks. Conclusion

County leaders have effectively put the proposed ordinance to rest, and there are no plans to reintroduce any surf fishing restrictions. The county council chairman, Clint Elliott, described the proposed ban as “effectively dead.”

Relevant Definitions

*

: Fishing from the shore, typically using a rod and reel. *

: Fishing for sharks, typically using a rod and reel. *

: A license required to fish for sharks in saltwater environments.