For many, striped bass fishing is a way of life. But the iconic species could face collapse

Striped bass fishing on the U.S. East Coast is at risk, with fishermen and scientists warning the iconic species could face collapse. The article describes Bill Jakob, a longtime Montauk Surfcasters Association president, recalling bigger runs in earlier decades when he could catch eight or nine fish up to 40 pounds (18 kilograms). Regulators say striped bass have suffered eight consecutive years of poor reproduction in Chesapeake Bay, contributing to declines along much of the Atlantic. Scientists point to overfishing plus warming waters, weak river flows, drought, pollution, and possibly increased predation. The piece notes the industry behind the fish is worth $8 billion and supports tens of thousands of jobs.