California Outdoors Q&A

Question: Sometimes when I'm fishing at night from shore off the coast, I can't always tell exactly what I've caught. Figuring out the difference in the dark between the perches that have different size restrictions can also be hard. I don't want to break any laws, but I usually like to take one fish home to eat. If I do...
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Question: Where can I find information on the number of hunting and fishing licenses sold in California for 2008, 2009 and how many so far for 2010? (Michael S., Auburn) Answer: Please check our website at www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/statistics/statistics.html for information on the numbers of licenses sold, cost of each license and the annual revenue generated from each. You can also view all...
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Question: I have been told several times by the same person that no fishing license is required if you are fishing and have the means to cook your catch within your reach. Is this true? (Forrest H.) Answer: No. Everyone who fishes or attempts to take fish must have a valid sport fishing license. The only exceptions are when fishing...
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Question: I just received notice from the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) that world-record applications will not be accepted from California for broomtail grouper catches. This is because possession of broomtail grouper is prohibited everywhere in California, even if caught in Mexican waters. Please explain why possession of broomtail grouper is prohibited in California for even Mexican-caught fish,...
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Question: I was recently cited for fishing in a Marine Protected Area (MPA). I wasn't familiar with the area and went into the MPA unintentionally and fished. I am not denying that I did but am wondering what the penalty can be for that? (Mike G.) Answer: You can look up the bail and penalty schedule for the code section you...
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Question: One of my dive buddies asked me what to do when plucking an abalone and the abalone shell comes off the ab and the meat remains on the rock. Should the person then pry the meat off the rock, lay it in the shell and take it all like this? It would be a legal (seven inches or...
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