Second Ocean Salmon Season Also Has Productive Results
California’s first ocean salmon fishing seasons since 2022 have been short but productive, starting with a brief window in June that hit its quota right away. After a similarly reduced river season kicked off in July (with fishing only allowed on stretches of three Central Valley rivers), the second ocean season got going over the weekend, with similar productive results, a welcome relief for charter boat captains and anglers alike after the two years of closures. Still, the struggles of California salmon, which prompted the back to back years of closures, has brought plenty of criticism towards the state’s salmon and water agencies, and Governor Gavin Newsom. But for now, everyone has taken advantage of the opportunities that they have.
As the fall season loomed, the Golden State Salmon Association chatted with some charter boat skippers:
VOICES FROM THE WATER: CHARTER CAPTAINS WEIGH IN
“It’s been a tough couple of years sitting at the dock, watching good weather and empty railings. Having a real shot at salmon, even for just a few days, is huge for our anglers and our crew. People are ready to get back on the water, and we’re ready to put them on fish.” — Captain Melynda Dodds, New Captain Pete, Half Moon Bay
“I’m excited, but I’m also nervous. We all want a strong salmon fishery, not just a few days here and there. The opener is going to be special, no doubt—but we’ve got a lot of work ahead to rebuild these runs. I’m just hoping we hook into some fish, have a good time, and remind everyone what’s at stake.” — Captain Tyja Taube, Reel Obsession, Bodega Bay
These captains remind us: the stakes aren’t just ecological—they’re personal, cultural, and economic.
And judging by some of these social media posts, it was a good weekend on the water:
Fish Invader Sportfishing
