as a commercial fisherman in south mississippi [shrimp boat] i like too fish as much as the next guy, just got in from wade fishing spec's. the thing is when i purchase fishing gear[lures&rodnreels] part of the procedes go to groups that are do'ing there very best to end our  way of life as shrimpers. so do i stick my middle finger at the tackle supplies places and quit fishing.or continue buying the lastest fishing gear. and finace the end of my family and friends way of life.

HMM dats'A tuff one.... i dout that your fishing purchases would add up to enuff to shut down the shrimp bizz.... but i can see your consurn, maybe try handgrabing,lol no gear but a glove and stringer, teasin`ya, cuz i wouldnt go putting my hands in holes down there either....... also if you have a lic to comercial fish i would think any gear you buy could be a tax right off.....this could almost let you buy more gear if you are showing a loss but having a great time with great gear...

also search every fishing product maker i bet there is one who does not support the same desire to spend money on shutting you down....of course you could use all pink gear with proceeds going to breast cancer, but not sure where they stand either...lol

sorry i cant help more....

i would also plead with everyone on here to eat more shrimp...lol!!!    shrimp and scallop gumbo, corn bread and a cold beer....mmmm

thanks lbt, yea i could see me explaning how i use artificial shrimp[doa's] as decoys.tax man will see me coming a mile away, just trying to make a point, that there are a lot commercial fishermen that also rec.fish.the fact is i know most commercial boys own a rec license.i have nothing aganst naf, mostly local news paper outdoor section.i get pissed every time i pick it up.i like to read about fishing,but you can only read so much when it's bias aganist the commercial secture.anyway  i don't have any gumbo but i do have a pot of shrimp&crab stew on the stove. and remember if you don't catch the big one you allways have bait....

Here in Mayport Florida we are having the same problem with Jacksonville Port Authority wanting to shut down the shrimping industry to build a cruise ship terminal and there is no where else for our shrimpers to dock but here.Maybe you should try the same thing in your town start your own local group and petition your city/town to put a stop to this.

                        www.savemayportvillage.net

 you can get some tips from here