Creature Feature: Giant Rock Scallop

rock scallop illustration by Amadeo BacharThe giant rock scallop may be found statewide from the lower intertidal area to depths of around 147 ft. They typically inhabit offshore reefs, although concrete pier pilings and rock jetty entrances to bays in southern California have also become favorite habitats. Continue reading “Creature Feature: Giant Rock Scallop”

Lobster Report Cards Due Soon – Your Data Informs Lobster Fishery Management

Did you dive or hoop net for spiny lobster last season? How many lobsters did you catch?

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) reminds lobster report card holders that report cards are due by April 30, 2024. The lobster report card is the official way for you to report your lobster fishing activity and is required to be submitted even if you didn’t fish for lobster, or didn’t catch any legal-sized keepers. Reporting zero lobsters caught on your report card is just as important as reporting successful trips. Continue reading “Lobster Report Cards Due Soon – Your Data Informs Lobster Fishery Management”

Recreational Groundfish Season Opens in All State Waters on April 19, 2024

Happy angler with lingcod
Happy California angler with a nice lingcod
photo courtesy E. W. Roberts III

On March 26, 2024, the California Fish and Game Commission adopted proposed changes to the 2024 groundfish season. Those changes are now in effect. The following is an overview of changes in the 2024 groundfish sport fishing regulations: Continue reading “Recreational Groundfish Season Opens in All State Waters on April 19, 2024”

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Point Reyes Headlands Special Closure and Point Reyes State Marine Conservation Area

As one of the windiest places on the Pacific Coast, Point Reyes is quite literally breathtaking. But the rocky shores, sandy beaches, and other habitats found here do not merely provide majestic scenery; they also support a remarkable array of species. Continue reading “Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Point Reyes Headlands Special Closure and Point Reyes State Marine Conservation Area”

Partial Area Closure for Commercial Dungeness Crab Fishery, Recreational Dungeness Crab Trap Restriction Set for April 8

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is closing the commercial Dungeness crab fishery from the Sonoma/Mendocino county line to the U.S./Mexico border (Fishing Zones 3, 4, 5, and 6). Commercial crabbing in the Northern Management Area Continue reading “Partial Area Closure for Commercial Dungeness Crab Fishery, Recreational Dungeness Crab Trap Restriction Set for April 8”