California Sportfishing League

While the national #fishing participation rate has been increasing, California's has been declining for years. Do you believe Governor-Elect Gavin Newsom will address this problem?

“In 2016, commercial and recreational saltwater fishing in the United States generated more than $212 billion in sales and contributed $100 billion to the country’s gross domestic product,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “These critical industries supported 1.7 million jobs in communities across the country.” National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

“Locally caught red snapper was once a staple on Southern California menus and a vital part of the state’s fishing industry. But overfishing took its toll, resulting in federal restrictions nearly two decades ago to prevent their extinction.

But with stocks rebuilding faster than anticipated, federal officials on Tuesday boosted catch limits by more than 100% for some species of rockfish in a move they said would help revive West Coast bottom trawlers and sportfishing fleets.”

The Associated Press reports that Fish and Game Commissioner Anthony Williams will be Governor-Elect Gavin Newsom's Legislative Director. In this position, Williams will advise the governor on legislation.

Given William's experience on the commission, do you think he will be more sensitive to the concerns of recreational anglers - like establishing a fishing license that is valid a full 12-months from the date of purchase?

"The number of nests, called redds, created by spring-run Chinook salmon reached 41 this year, compared to just 13 last year.

“It’s a vast improvement over previous years,” said fish biologist Don Portz, manager of the San Joaquin River Restoration Program. “That’s triple the amount.”" - reports the Fresno Bee.