CDFW Officers Cite Fishing Boat Near Catalina For Undersized Lobster Catches

California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers found plenty of undersized lobsters taken by a fishing boat near Catalina Island. CDFW posted the following on Facebook:

During the opening weekend of lobster season, CDFW wildlife officers patrolling near Catalina Island cited multiple individuals aboard a vessel for fishing in the Long Point State Marine Reserve. 

The officers also explained the applicable regulations to the subjects and answered the individuals’ questions. Later that night, officers boarded the same vessel to inspect their catch and to check for compliance. When asked if they had any additional lobsters beyond those visible, the individuals said they did not. However, an inspection of the vessel revealed eight undersized lobsters concealed in a hatch and four undersized lobsters concealed in a bucket. 

Wildlife officers uncovered a total of 55 lobsters, 49 of which were undersized and six were over the legal possession limit. 

The subjects were arrested and released with citations for possessing undersized lobsters and exceeding daily bag limits. 

CDFW would like to remind anyone fishing for lobsters that lobsters must be immediately measured upon being brought out of the water and any undersized lobsters must be returned to the water immediately. Knowing and following fishing regulations helps protect California’s marine resources.