August 2016 Volume 17 • Issue 194 | Page 15

Action Alert continued months. The Wildlife and Fisheries Commission voted unanimously earlier this spring to direct the Department to support H.R. 3094. Therefore, CCA was surprised and disappointed to learn of Melancon's recent statement in opposition to the bill. The statement was released without Governor Edwards, Congressman Graves, the WLF Commission or any recreational stakeholder group's knowledge, and they were not alerted to the Department's concerns over funding. However, the statement had been shared with leaders of several anti-recreational groups, and they lauded the statements as a victory for their anti-angler causes. Now, the Secretary and his staff, after attending only two gulf council meetings, have concluded that recreational anglers should go back to the Gulf Council to find solutions. CCA Louisiana strongly disagrees with this sentiment. Recreational anglers have been traveling down that road now for years, and it leads to a deadend. It is no surprise that anti-angler groups are applauding the Secretary for his recent actions. It is a surprise, however, that he has turned his back on the other four Gulf States, Louisiana's congressional delegation, the WLF Commission and frustrated anglers across Louisiana, in order to side with those anti-angler groups and put his faith in the Gulf Council. "For years, spanning many administrations, we have enjoyed a positive relationship with Wildlife and Fisheries, based on open dialogue, trust and honesty," said George Huye, CCA Louisiana President. "Secretary Melancon told us on numerous occasions he would work closely with CCA on recreational fishing matters, yet he continues to make troubling decisions without our knowledge. It has been disappointing to say the least." Please send a message to LDWF Secretary Charlie Melancon, and tell him how important it is that he reconsiders his position on H.R. 3094. Ask him to stand up for frustrated anglers across Louisiana. Captain’s Meeting Friday, August 12th • 6:30PM Quintana Landing at Cypremort Point Optional attendance Tournament Saturday, August 13th • 6:00AM Launch from anywhere you want Weigh In: 1PM-3PM by boat only, Kayak participants may drive up All boat participants wishing to weigh in MUST be in the canal by 3PM to be valid participant All kayak participants wishing to weigh in MUST check in at the pavilion by 3PM to be valid participant