California Outdoors Q&A

Mystery Tag Washed Ashore
California Outdoors Q&A
Carrie Wilson, JULY 5, 2018

Question: My Boy Scout troop was recently hiking at Pirate’s Cove in the Marin Headlands, and we found this tag washed ashore. We packed it out, but we’re still wondering what it is. Do we need to return it to the department, or report that we found it? (Hunter Pinkstaff, Boy Scout Troop 227) Answer: What you’ve found is a buoy tag issued...
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Education Opportunities for a Longtime Hunter
California Outdoors Q&A
Carrie Wilson, JUNE 21, 2018

Question: Does CDFW still offer classes for experienced hunters? I’ve had my license for years, so I’m not looking for the basic hunter ed stuff. (Chris) Answer: Yes! There are opportunities around the state. The Law Enforcement Division’s Advanced Hunter Education Program lists upcoming classes, which currently include Hunting with Air Guns (Los Angeles County), Basic Game Processing (Santa Clara County), Waterfowl Hunting...
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What Can I Do About Rattlesnakes?
California Outdoors Q&A
Carrie Wilson, JUNE 21, 2018

Question: The late spring and early summer always seem to bring out rattlesnakes on my property. I have two dogs and I am worried about them and myself. I have heard you need a fishing license to kill one, even if it is on your own property. Is that true? (Linda) Answer: Spring and summer are peak seasons for rattlesnake activity. Like all...
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How Do I Know if I Have Nutria on my Property?
California Outdoors Q&A
Carrie Wilson, JUNE 8, 2018

Question: I own property in Merced and I have some concerns about the Central Valley nutria discovery. I haven’t noticed anything out of the ordinary, but what signs should I be looking out for? Can I have someone come out and survey my property to make sure they’re not here, just for my own peace of mind? (Ann) Answer: Nutria are large, invasive...
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Understanding Waterway Health Advisories
California Outdoors Q&A
Carrie Wilson, MAY 11, 2018

Question: I saw a notice in the newspaper that there is a high level of E. coli in the lower American River at the confluence of the Sacramento River in Sacramento County. I am planning on going striper fishing with my son there. Is it safe to eat the fish if we catch some stripers? Where can I find more information?...
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How are Black Bass Limits Regulated During Licensed Tournaments?
California Outdoors Q&A
Carrie Wilson, APRIL 26, 2018

Question: Why are Pro Bass Tournament participants allowed to keep fishing when they have five fish in their possession? When they continue to fish and they boat their sixth fish, aren’t they in violation of the five-fish limit rule? I realize that they release the smallest fish, but for just a little while, they do have six fish in their possession....
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