BUSINESS

California reopens commercial salmon fishing after three-year pause

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SACRAMENTO — Federal fishery managers voted Sunday to reopen California ocean waters to limited commercial and recreational salmon fishing after a three-year closure, citing rebounds in Sacramento River and Klamath River fall-run Chinook populations. The Pacific Fishery Management Council issued the advisory vote; the U.S. Secretary of Commerce is expected to publish the final rule in the Federal Register within days. This weekend decision follows wet winters and habitat work that improved river conditions after the 2021–22 drought. California officials, including Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot and CDFW Director Meghan Hertel, welcomed the move this week and Governor Gavin Newsom issued a supportive statement. Managers set an initial open period from May 1 through May 6, imposed vessel restrictions of six lines, a 160-fish per-period cap per vessel, and a seasonal cap of 83,000 fish through August; managers kept commercial coho fishing closed and emphasized monitoring and enforcement.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2021–2022: Severe drought and low river flows reduce salmon populations.
2023–2025: PFMC banned commercial salmon fishing off California for three years.
2025: PFMC permitted limited recreational salmon fishing as stocks improved.
This weekend: PFMC voted to allow limited commercial and recreational ocean salmon fishing.
Days ahead: U.S. Secretary of Commerce to publish final decision; season begins May 1.

Why This Matters to You

If you're a seafood lover, this is good news. More local salmon means fresher fish at your grocery store or favorite restaurant. But remember, there are still restrictions. So, check for sustainable labels before you buy.

The Bottom Line

This is a positive step for California's fishing industry and local economies. It's also a sign of improving river conditions. But, it's a delicate balance. Overfishing could harm the rebounding salmon populations. Worth forwarding if you know someone who loves fresh, local seafood.