232 REPORT OF COMMISSIONER OF FISH AND FISHERIES. [8] 



the largest moneyed interests in it, were favorable to the enactment of 

 a similar law regulating the menhaden fisheries. It therefore seems 

 practicable, as well as proper, to enact such legislation as will both in- 

 crease the production of these two fisheries (the mackerel and men- 

 haden) and place the product in the market under the best conditions, 

 both for the consumer and the fishermen. To go further than to pro- 

 hibit purse-net or pound-net fishing prior to a definite date each season 

 would be neither practicable nor expedient. 



The prohibition of the use of steamers in the mackerel or menhaden 

 fisheries does not seem to be advisable. It is in the general interest to 

 permit the prosecution of the fisheries by methods and apparatus that 

 will secure the most profitable returns. Moreover, if legislation is 

 enacted, fixing a date for the beginning of the mackerel fisheries, 

 the shortening of the season proposed will greatly diminish the advan- 

 tage of steamers over sailing-vessels ; for the heavy expense incurred 

 in the maintenance of the steamers for so short a season of active opera- 

 tions would impose a heavy tax on them. 



Washington, D. 0., J^m€ 29, 1885 



