After an hour long presentation by the Department explaining their management options which included a complicated combination of rotating protected areas, commercial fishing vs. sportfishing allocations, limited access, whether anglers or vessels were to be licensed, and how the coast could be divided into zones, DFG allowed public comment.

With over 60 people signed up to speak, we were allowed a 1.5 minutes each to speak. It soon became apparent the sportfishing community of divers and surface anglers only considered one DFG option acceptable; A complete ban on commercial fin fishing in California State Waters, or 3 miles from shore.

"The Petition" calling for a ban on commercial fishing was presented to DFG with over 1,100 signatures. Bob Strickland, United Anglers of Northern California President, and a member of the DFG advisory board, announced during his minute of presentation, "Although United Anglers can't endorse the petition without a vote of the board, I personally am asking our membership to support this initiative."

The small faction of commercial fishermen present were vociferous. A couple were asked to leave for heckling speakers. One refused shouting, "You're taking away my livelyhood." DFG wardens forcibly removed him from the building.

This is just round one in a fight which will not be decided until November. The next hearing is sure to see large commercial angler attendance. Your presence at the hearing and participation in the petition and action alert campaigns here at fishsniffer.com are crucial to maintain the momentum we have established to protect the Nearshore Fishery for recreational only use.

The Fish Sniffer is officially endorsing "The Petition" and you can submit it electronically by clicking here.

Photos by the Big Eraser