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Public Lands
Why It Matters

Hunting & Fishing Access

America’s 640 million acres of national public lands provide irreplaceable hunting and fishing opportunities to millions of Americans.

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What TRCP is Doing

We’re working to safeguard America’s public lands so hunters and anglers always have quality places to pursue their passions.

MAPping Public Access

Enhancing access to your public lands and waters by digitizing public access records and paper maps.

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Unlocking Public Lands

The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership teamed up with onX to determine the scope of the landlocked problem and propose solutions for unlocking public lands.

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Public Land Access

America’s 640 million acres of national public lands – including our National Forests and Bureau of Land Management lands – provide irreplaceable hunting and fishing opportunities to millions of Americans.

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Brian Flynn, Two Wolf Foundation
How Sportsmen Are Doing It Right

Brian Flynn, Two Wolf Foundation's Story

Following a distinguished career in the U.S. Army, lifelong outdoorsman Brian Flynn returned home from a deployment in Afghanistan and…
Hunting
Why It Matters

Key Issues for America’s Hunters

Your source for the latest policy updates, conservation challenges, and opportunities shaping America’s hunting traditions.

What TRCP is Doing

We’re fighting for meaningful policy changes that benefit wildlife, our waters, and the American landscapes that make our outdoor traditions possible.

Chronic Wasting Disease

CWD is the biggest threat to the future of deer hunting.

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antelope running downhill

Wildlife Corridors

This critical habitat ensures elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and other migratory species are able to move between their summer and winter ranges, and take full advantage of the spring greenup.

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Sage Grouse Conservation

The TRCP has been on the front lines of sage grouse conservation for years.

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Ryan Sparks
How Sportsmen Are Doing It Right

Ryan Sparks's Story

TRCP’s “In the Arena” series highlights the individual voices of hunters and anglers who, as Theodore Roosevelt so famously said,…
Fishing
Why It Matters

Key Issues for America’s Anglers

Your source for the latest policy updates, conservation challenges, and opportunities shaping America’s fishing traditions.

What TRCP is Doing

We’re fighting for meaningful policy changes that benefit wildlife, our waters, and the American landscapes that make our outdoor traditions possible.

Forage Fish Recovery

If you want great sportfishing, you need healthy forage fish.

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Restoring the Mississippi River Delta

Nearly 2,000 square miles of prime fish and wildlife habitat have vanished along Louisiana’s coast.

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Colorado river

Colorado River

Hunters and anglers are in this together, we know that collaborative solutions can provide relief for the strained Colorado River and safeguard hunting and fishing in this important watershed.

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David Mangum
How Sportsmen Are Doing It Right

David Mangum's Story

Capt. David Mangum is a YETI ambassador and outdoor photographer who utilizes his talents to produce media that inspire a…
Private Land
Why It Matters

Stewardship on America’s private lands

With 70 percent of U.S. lands in private hands and many of our best hunt and fish opportunities occurring there, investing in voluntary conservation on working lands safeguards access, strengthens habitat and water quality, and ensures resilient landscapes.

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What TRCP is Doing

We champion policies and programs that restore wildlife habitat, improve soil and water health, and keep working lands productive.

Farm Bill Conservation Programs

Explore our model farm to learn how each conservation program benefits landowners, wildlife, and sportsmen and women.

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antelope running downhill

Wildlife Corridors

This critical habitat ensures elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and other migratory species are able to move between their summer and winter ranges, and take full advantage of the spring greenup.

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Sage Grouse Conservation

The TRCP has been on the front lines of sage grouse conservation for years.

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Ward Burton
How Sportsmen are Doing It Right

Ward Burton's Story

Ward Burton’s NASCAR driving career stretched across most of two decades. As an avid sportsman and conservationist, he founded the…
Special Places
Why It Matters

Special Places Worth Protecting

America’s most iconic landscapes provide unmatched habitat and unforgettable days afield. These places sustain wildlife, anchor local economies, and define the hunting and fishing traditions we pass down.

What TRCP is Doing

We’re working to conserve special places that provide world-class habitat and unforgettable opportunities for hunters and anglers.

Alaska

When it comes to quality places to hunt, fish, and trap, Alaska is unique and—in the minds of many—unparalleled. 

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Colorado river

Colorado River

Hunters and anglers are in this together, we know that collaborative solutions can provide relief for the strained Colorado River and safeguard hunting and fishing in this important watershed.

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Pennsylvania

The TRCP currently focuses its conservation efforts on the Chesapeake Bay, Delaware River, and Ohio River watersheds within Pennsylvania.

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lolo forest

The Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests

The Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests stretch across approximately 3.5 million acres in western Montana and provide important wildlife habitat, coldwater fisheries, and recreational opportunities that support thousands of jobs in the region.

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The Pacific Northwest

From the Puget Sound to the Snake River’s Hell’s Canyon, and on to the high divide in the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, the Pacific Northwest is blessed with millions of acres of public lands and thousands of miles of public water. 

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Restoring the Mississippi River Delta

Nearly 2,000 square miles of prime fish and wildlife habitat have vanished along Louisiana’s coast.

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Franklin Adams
How Sportsmen Are Doing It Right

Franklin Adams's Story

As a true Gladesman, conservationist, and historian, Capt. Franklin Adams has spent more than six decades championing Everglades restoration efforts…
Habitat & Clean Water
Why It Matters

Healthy Habitat Powers Every Pursuit

All hunting and fishing opportunities depend on quality habitat, from clean water and healthy wetlands to winter and summer habitats and the migration corridors that connect them.

All About Habitat & Clean Water
What TRCP is Doing

We are working to safeguard the habitats that power every hunting and fishing opportunity.

antelope running downhill

Wildlife Corridors

This critical habitat ensures elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and other migratory species are able to move between their summer and winter ranges, and take full advantage of the spring greenup.

Learn More
Colorado river

Colorado River

Hunters and anglers are in this together, we know that collaborative solutions can provide relief for the strained Colorado River and safeguard hunting and fishing in this important watershed.

Learn More
Ben Matthews hunting

Nature Based Solutions

How hunters and anglers can play a major role in advocating for habitat-driven solutions.

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Alex Harvey
How Sportsmen Are Doing It Right

Alex Harvey's Story

Alex Harvey, founder of Legacy Land Management, is a registered professional forester in Mississippi and Alabama with a Master's degree…
Science
Why It Matters

Science That Guides TRCP

From conserving migration corridors and wetlands to ensuring clean water and resilient landscapes, science provides evidence that turns conservation goals into effective action.

Science for Conservation
What TRCP is Doing

For hunters and anglers, science safeguards the experiences we treasure including resilient big game populations, abundant fish, and wild places that endure changing social landscapes.

Science Speaker Series

The TRCP Science Speaker Series facilitates discussions around integrated science and research that better inform integrated conservation policy and management decisions and strategies.

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Science Snapshots

Each Science Snapshot translates credible research on key conservation issues into what it means for fish, wildlife, and America’s hunting and fishing traditions.

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Science Blogs

TRCP’s science blogs break down new research and on-the-ground findings to show how conservation science directly affects fish, wildlife, habitat, and our hunting and fishing opportunities.

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Jamelle Ellis
Your Science Expert

Jamelle Ellis's Story

Jamelle Ellis joined the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership in 2022. Jamelle spent the last three years as an environmental sustainability…
Where We Work
Across the Nation

Conservation Across America

TRCP works across the country to ensure hunters and anglers can enjoy healthy fish and wildlife and quality days afield, no matter where they live.

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TRCP in Your Region

TRCP works across the country to ensure hunters and anglers can enjoy healthy fish and wildlife and quality days afield, no matter where they live.

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Sign Up for Forage Fish Updates

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Conservation Economy

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Who We Are
Our Mission

To guarantee all Americans quality places to hunt & fish

We unite and amplify our partners’ voices to advance America’s legacy of conservation, habitat, and access.

Our Mission & Values
Our People & Partners

  • Meet the TRCP Team

    Our staff and board members unite and amplify our partners’ voices to advance America’s legacy of conservation, habitat, and access.

    Meet the Team

  • Our Partners

    ‘Partnership’ is in our name. We work with 64 diverse partner groups that represent today’s leading hunting, fishing, and conservation organizations in order to strengthen the sportsman’s voice in Washington, D.C.

    Our Partners

  • Corporate Council

    TRCP’s Corporate Council is made up of diverse corporations that share a common passion for conservation.

    Corporate Council
Our Organization

Looking for more information?

Explore our latest news, policy updates, and conservation resources to get the information you need.

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How You Can Help

To guarantee all Americans quality places to hunt & fish

Your tax-deductible donation will support TRCP's mission, now and into the future.

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Special Ways to support trcp

  • Capital Conservation Awards Dinner

    The CCAD is one of Washington's best-attended conservation celebrations, featuring dinner, cocktails, and a silent auction.

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    Help us ensure that our treasured wild habitats and game remain intact for the next generation to enjoy – lend your support to the TRCP’s efforts today!

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  • Roosevelt Roast

    TRCP has partnered with Afuera Coffee Co. to further our commitment to conservation.

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Find the best way for you to lend your support. Join one of TRCP’s donor circles for special invitations, premium offerings from outdoor retailers, and more exclusive benefits. Take control of your legacy with planned giving or contribute to special conservation funds.

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News
In the Spotlight

House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson Introduces Farm Bill Proposal 

Hunters and anglers depend on strong Conservation and Forestry Titles, and TRCP will closely evaluate the bill's impacts as it moves forward.

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Receive our newsletter, the Roosevelt Report, right in your inbox. Never miss the latest news in conservation issues.

Latest News
February 12, 2026

TRCP Appreciates Make America Beautiful Again 250 Strategy and Migration Announcements

Efforts will continue progress on habitat, access, and big game migration corridor conservation

February 11, 2026

New TRCP Staff Member to Focus on Mississippi River Basin Conservation

The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership's new Lower/Middle Mississippi River representative will coordinate with key partners and community leaders to focus on furthering policy priorities in the region, including the advancement of improved water and habitat management projects.
February 11, 2026

USDA Announces Conservation Reserve Program Signup for 2026

CRP continues a proven legacy of habitat conservation benefiting landowners, producers, wildlife, and sportsmen and women.

Looking for Press Releases?

Timely information on major conservation issues, organizational news, and policy developments that matter to America’s hunters and anglers.

Press Releases

Tiny Fish, Mighty Purpose

How baitfish overharvest hurts sportfishing

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If you want great sportfishing, you need healthy forage fish

Forage fish, commonly referred to as bait fish or prey fish, are smaller, schooling ocean species that typically feed on plankton and are preyed on by larger fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. These fishes include menhaden (also called pogies or bunker), herrings, sardines, shad, and anchovies, with smaller squid species also being important species that serve as food, or “forage,” and provide a necessary foundation for healthy ecosystems. An abundance of forage species is critical to effectively transfer energy from plankton to much larger fish and wildlife higher in the food chain.

Like other small but critically important forage fish, menhaden and herring play a central role in marine food webs. These tiny, oily baitfish are an essential food source for some of the most economically important sportfish: striped bass, redfish, bluefin tuna, bluefish, speckled trout, weakfish, tarpon, summer flounder, and sharks. Whales, dolphins, ospreys, and other marine species also consume these forage fish in large quantities.

But not all forage fish are managed with consideration for their vital role in coastal ecosystems.

In fact, commercial harvest of Atlantic and Gulf menhaden has increased to meet the demand of what’s called a “reduction fishery,” which reduces billions of menhaden into livestock feed, fish oil, fish meal, fertilizers, cosmetics, and other products. More menhaden are commercially harvested each year than any other fish in the lower 48 states—more than a billion pounds are caught per year on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. 

Atlantic herring are also netted by the millions, mostly to be sold as lobster trap bait rather than being left as food for larger fish and wildlife, or used as bait for low-impact recreational fishing. The mass removal of these species puts predators at risk and undermines the health of marine ecosystems.

This is why sportsmen and sportswomen are calling for regional fisheries managers to change their approach to managing forage fish like menhaden and herring.

Fish of Many Names

gulf menhaden Gulf menhaden
Atlantic Menhaden Brevoortia tyrannus bunker, mossbunker, fatback, bugfish, shiners
Gulf Menhaden Brevoortia patronus pogies, shad
Atlantic Herring Clupea harengus sea herring, sardines, brits
  • <b>Redfish</b> are one of many sportfish that rely on menhaden, which make up 20 percent of their diet in the Gulf of Mexico. Photo credit: David Mangum
    Redfish are one of many sportfish that rely on menhaden, which make up 20 percent of their diet in the Gulf of Mexico. Photo credit: David Mangum
  • <b>Striped bass</b> feed on menhaden and herring; menhaden reduction fishing has been shown to contribute to a nearly 30-percent decline in their coastwide population. Photo courtesy of Sergio Diaz
    Striped bass feed on menhaden and herring; menhaden reduction fishing has been shown to contribute to a nearly 30-percent decline in their coastwide population. Photo courtesy of Sergio Diaz
  • <b>Humpback whales</b> have returned to New York waters in the last few years, feeding on nearshore menhaden schools after the state banned purse seine fishing. Photo courtesy of Sutton Lynch
    Humpback whales have returned to New York waters in the last few years, feeding on nearshore menhaden schools after the state banned purse seine fishing. Photo courtesy of Sutton Lynch
  • Atlantic herring provide a key food source for <b>bluefin tuna</b> (shown), striped bass, cod, and many fish and wildlife species.
    Atlantic herring provide a key food source for bluefin tuna (shown), striped bass, cod, and many fish and wildlife species.
  • <b>Tarpon</b>, one of sportfishing’s greatest prizes, feed on larger menhaden – which are commonly used for bait. Photo credit: Pat Ford Photography
    Tarpon, one of sportfishing’s greatest prizes, feed on larger menhaden – which are commonly used for bait. Photo credit: Pat Ford Photography
  • <b>Osprey</b> nests in parts of the Chesapeake Bay failed at the highest rates ever recorded in recent years, which may be due to a lack of menhaden near nesting areas. 
    Osprey nests in parts of the Chesapeake Bay failed at the highest rates ever recorded in recent years, which may be due to a lack of menhaden near nesting areas. 

Serving A Larger Purpose To The Ecosystem

If nothing changes, excessive removal of these important forage fish can damage our coastal ecosystems and harm America’s outdoor recreation economy. Here’s how leaving more forage fish in the water for predators would benefit anglers and communities that rely on recreational fishing.

 

 

Where We Work

The TRCP has partnered with other leading voices in the recreational fishing sector—including the American Sportfishing Association, Coastal Conservation Association, National Marine Manufacturers Association, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, and others—to encourage fisheries managers to leave more forage fish in the water for gamefish and protect sensitive ecosystems from industrial fishing wherever this practice is still taking place. Click on an area of focus to see our most recent efforts and get involved.

  • Atlantic Coast

    After years of advocacy from anglers and recreational fishing business leaders, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission voted unanimously in August 2020 to implement “ecological reference points” (ERPs) in menhaden management to account for the small baitfish’s impact on predators all the way up the food chain, leaving enough menhaden in the water to support the coastwide striped bass population. This is key for our recreational fishing opportunities, because studies show that menhaden reduction fishing contributes to a nearly 30 percent decline in striped bass numbers.

    However, in 2025, the ASMFC ignored the best available science in the most recent stock assessment update, which showed that the Atlantic menhaden population is 37 percent lower than previously estimated, and abandoned the Commission’s own ERP management framework, which indicated that a quota cut of more than 50 percent was necessary to rebuild the Atlantic striped bass population. Instead, only a 20 percent quota cut was made – which will not lower harvest by the menhaden reduction industry, based on recent landings, but will cut into New England’s bait harvest.

    Also, while anglers in northern Atlantic coastal waters, especially off of New York, observed a robust rise in menhaden and their predators such as striped bass, bluefin tuna, and humpback whales for several years, numbers appear to have diminished starting in 2024. The previous rise in nearshore fish populations was partly due to coastal protections for these essential forage fish – now implemented by every Atlantic state except Virginia. The reason for the more recent decline has not yet been determined, but could include fishing pressure, climate change, and normal cyclical patterns. Our menhaden conservation efforts include supporting continued improvements to the management model to benefit striped bass populations and pushing for catch quotas that align with the ERP framework and the best available science.

    Source: Source: Fishing events for 8 vessels derived from Global Fishing Watch using AIS data; buffer data from Virginia Marine Resources Commission
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In the Current

‘The Most Important Fish in the Sea’ Video Series

The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership took a Mid-Atlantic road trip to interview an array of anglers and others to raise awareness about what menhaden are and why these small fish matter.

Read More Forage Fish Blogs

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