Sport Anglers Are Reminded of Regulations for Catching and Releasing Wild Salmon and Steelhead Trout

November 14, 2005

Release from:
NOAA

Each year wild salmon and steelhead return to California's north coast along with their hatchery-raised counterparts to spawn in local rivers and streams. Anglers are allowed to keep wild fish only during specified open seasons. In most cases these wild fish are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) or state regulations and must be returned immediately and gently into the water.

Most sport anglers follow good catch-and-release practices. However, there have been recent reports of instances when wild fish have been treated roughly prior to release. Federal and state law enforcement agents will be monitoring compliance with mandatory catch-and-release regulations for salmon and steelhead trout protected under the ESA and applicable California law. Harsh treatment of protected fish may be construed as harassment under the ESA and could result in fines and/or imprisonment.

Fishing organizations including the United Pier and Shore Anglers of California, United Anglers of California, Recreational Fishing Alliance, and the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance are working with NOAA and the California Department of Fish and Game to promote safe catch-and-release practices. Fishermen have a vested interest in safely returning these fish to the wild, since a successful return of spawning fish will help to determine the duration of future open seasons.

For more information, read the new Sport Anglers Fact Sheet for In-Stream Catch and Release Requirements for Northern California Salmon and Steelhead Trout, or contact Marty.Golden@noaa.gov.