Fisheries Partnerships: Continuing the MLMA Master Plan Amendment Discussion Series

As we enter into the summer months, it is almost unbelievable that the first six months of 2017 are now behind us. Looking back, we are deeply appreciative of the stakeholders who have already taken time to participate in a number of discussions CDFW has hosted to share information about our process that is currently underway to amend the existing Marine Life Management Act (MLMA) Master Plan. Feedback received on topics such as a

Understanding Depth Limits in the Recreational Groundfish Fishery

California Groundfish Management Areas  map by CDFW Marine Region GIS Lab

New recreational groundfish regulations went into effect in 2017, including changes to depth limits in some areas of the state. These changes provide more opportunity than before, opening areas that have been closed for many years.

With the regulation changes have come questions from the public asking for clarification regarding how depths are defined. We hope the explanation provided here will enable all California sportsmen and women to understand and follow the depth limit regulations.

Since 2002, Rockfish Conservation Areas (RCAs) have been used to close waters of certain depths to fishing for groundfish. The RCAs were established to help protect and rebuild overfished stocks, by prohibiting groundfish fishing in places where these stocks are most frequently encountered.

Gearing Up for Abalone Season

Choppy water off the north coast. CDFW photo by L. Lopez

Every spring at the start of abalone season, thousands of people gear up and head out to their favorite spot on the north coast to rock-pick or dive for red abalone. Strong winds often accompany the spring months, which can make ocean waters rough. Between 1993 and 2012 more than 54 people lost their lives while trying to take abalone in a variety of circumstances including rough weather, and every year

CDFW Reminds Divers and Hoopnetters: Time to Submit 2016-2017 Spiny Lobster Report Cards

Scuba diver with a nice lobster.  CDFW photo by D. Stein

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) reminds 2016-2017 Spiny Lobster Report Card holders to submit their report card data online or return their report cards by April 30, 2017 as required by law. Cardholders should review their cards carefully and check that the information recorded is complete and accurate. Information collected from the cards provides CDFW with data necessary to monitor and manage California’s spiny lobster fishery.

New Survey Solicits Public Input on Recreational Red Abalone Fishery

Abalone and urchin feed on sea palm washed into deeper water from the intertidal zone.   photo by K. Joe

An online survey soliciting public opinion about red abalone fishery management is now available on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) website. Public input will inform the development of a red abalone fishery management plan, and help CDFW to address the interests and concerns of the public. For more information, please see the March 30, 2017 press release. To learn more about abalone management and the fishery management plan development process, please visit the CDFW website.

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post by CDFW Research Writer Mary Patyten
this post has been updated