The below information is current as of 09/23/2015
Regulatory process and opportunities for public comment currently scheduled to start in 2016. Adopted regulations would not go into effect until the 2017/18 lobster season
SHAWN...HERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT...
Summary of draft proposed changes to recreational lobster regulations
Require the hole-punching or fin-clipping of all retained lobsters. Proposed by the LAC to reduce illegal commercialization of sport caught lobsters.
Change recreational season opener from 12:01 am to 6 a.m. on Saturday. Proposed by the LAC to increase safety during the season opener.
Require hoop net operators to mark hoop net floats with GO-ID (fishing license) numbers. Proposed by the LAC to allow enforcement to easily identify the owner of a hoop net.
Clarify that spear gear may be possessed by divers while targeting or in possession of lobsters so long as the gear is not used in the taking of lobster.
CA Spiny Lobster Fishery Management Plan timeline
December 9-10, 2015 Commission meeting in San Diego: Department to submit a Draft CA Spiny Lobster Fishery Management Plan, starting the public comment period.
Additional opportunities for public comment and possible adoption of the FMP in 2016
For more information and to sign up for the lobster FMP news service, please visit the Department’s lobster FMP webpage (
http://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservat...ne/Lobster-FMP).
Additional items to highlight:
The Department of Fish and Wildlife recommends report card holders submit their cards online at the end of the season (April 30th due date) rather than mailing them in. The online reporting web address is on the lobster report card.