On January 31, Martha Guyas, Southeast Fisheries Policy Director for the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), was designated by the U.S. Department of State as alternate commissioner representing recreational fishing interests to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT).
ICCAT is an inter-governmental fishery organization responsible for the conservation of tunas and tuna-like species, such as swordfish and billfish, in the Atlantic Ocean and its adjacent seas. According to a 2020 report, recreational fishing for these species contributes an estimated $510 million to the United States economy and supports around 4,500 jobs.
“Decisions at ICCAT often have direct implications for our community,” said Guyas. “I am honored to have the opportunity to represent recreational fishing interests as part of the United States delegation at ICCAT.”
“Martha’s appointment to ICCAT is a reflection of her highly respected expertise on marine fisheries issues and thoughtful approach to policymaking,” said ASA President, Glenn Hughes. “I know she is excited to get to work at ICCAT and coordinate among a wide range of recreational fishing partners to best serve the community on this important commission.”
As the voice for the sportfishing industry and the entire recreational fishing community for more than 90 years, ASA recognizes the importance of sound fisheries policy and conservation at all levels.
Martha is the second ASA staff member to serve on ICCAT. Former ASA president, Mike Nussman, served from 1993-2000.
Before joining ASA, Martha worked for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and was the FWC’s designee on the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council. She is based in Tallahassee, Florida.
About The American Sportfishing Association
The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) is the sportfishing industry’s trade association committed to representing the interests of the sportfishing and boating industries as well as the entire sportfishing community. We give the industry and anglers a unified voice when emerging laws and policies could significantly affect sportfishing business or sportfishing itself. ASA invests in long-term ventures to ensure the industry will remain strong and prosperous, as well as safeguard and promote the enduring economic, conservation and social values of sportfishing in America. ASA also gives America’s 55 million anglers a voice in policy decisions that affect their ability to sustainably fish on our nation’s waterways through Keep America Fishing, our national angler advocacy campaign. America’s anglers generate more than $50 billion in retail sales with a $125 billion impact on the nation’s economy creating employment for 825,000 people.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
