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B&J Sporting Goods Statement on Alaska's Fisheries and the Issue of Bycatch
B&J Sporting Goods Speaks Out on Alaska's Fisheries Crisis
Taking a Stand on Bycatch and the Future of Alaska's Fisheries
Release Date: September 30, 2024
Statement On: Alaska's Fisheries and the Issue of Bycatch
Statement from B&J Sporting Goods on Alaska's Fisheries and the Issue of Bycatch
In light of the alarming situation surrounding the State of Alaska’s fisheries, we’ve had countless conversations with our customers—many of whom have expressed dismay, extreme frustration, and deep disappointment at the state of our water-bound resources. This ongoing crisis has driven us to take a public position on the critical issue of bycatch and the devastating effects industrialized trawl fishing has on the people and environment of Alaska.
Invitation to Comment
Earlier this year, we were invited by SalmonState.org to share our thoughts on Representative Mary Peltola’s bills aimed at addressing Alaska’s fisheries. It was through this invitation that we began to seriously consider raising our voice publicly on the issue of bycatch. The more we engaged with the topic, the more we realized that our voice matters—and that we wouldn’t just be speaking for ourselves, but for all of our customers who come to us seeking advice on how to catch fish to feed their families. How can we be experts in our field, providing quality fishing gear and equipment to Alaskans who rely on those tools to help them provide for their families, while staying silent on the very issue that threatens the future of Alaska’s fisheries?
As a business deeply rooted in Alaska’s fishing community, we believe it’s our responsibility to not only provide the equipment and expertise Alaskans rely on, but also to be a vocal advocate for the sustainability of the very resources that make our Alaskan way of life possible. Our commitment goes beyond just providing gear—it extends to protecting the fisheries that sustain our customers, our state, and future generations of Alaskans.
A Dedicated Space
As a small but significant step forward, we set up a table at the front of our shop, creating a dedicated space for Alaskans to make their voices heard. With the support of SalmonState.org, which provided us with FREE stickers, educational materials, and form letters, we made it easier for concerned citizens to make their own public statements about this important issue. As of September 2024, we’ve gathered several hundred signed letters -from the concerned Alaskan public- that will be delivered on their behalf alongside countless others from across the state to Alaska’s Congressional Delegation.
STOP Alaskan Trawler Bycatch
We’ve also joined the Facebook group STOP Alaskan Trawler Bycatch, a community of nearly 40,000 Alaskan residents, former residents, and individuals who care deeply about Alaska’s future. This platform has amplified our collective voice and allowed us to further engage with those dedicated to preserving our fisheries. It's also an excellent starting point for anyone looking to become more knowledgeable on the matter of industrial trawl fishing and its impact on our Alaskan fisheries.
Helping Alaskans Help Alaska
Looking beyond the November 5th election, we are committed to being part of a lasting solution for Alaska’s fisheries. We will continue to explore new ways to help Alaskans raise their voices, ensure that policymakers are held accountable, and advocate for sustainable fishing practices that protect our way of life for the long haul.
Our customers care deeply. Alaskans care deeply. Given the dismal 2024 fishing season—marked by early closures, restrictions, and diminishing returns—remaining silent or neutral is simply not an option. The time to act is now. Alaska’s fisheries are at a tipping point, and what we do—or fail to do—over the coming months will have a lasting impact.
Our Collective Voice Must Be Heard
We formally invite every Alaskan and every Alaskan-based business in the fishing industry to raise their voice on this issue. Your voice matters—whether you’re a lifelong fisherman or someone who simply loves and cares for our state. Now is the time to demand that our elected officials make their positions and action plans clear, so that “We the People” can make informed choices when voting for leaders who are truly committed to serving the interests of the people, NOT the industrial corporate fishing complex that continues to pillage and plunder Alaska’s precious resources.
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