CDFW Bans Retention of Quillback Rockfish
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is banning retention of quillback rockfish in both recreational and commercial fisheries effective Aug. 7.
CDFW officials said July 28 that the combined recreational and commercial take of quillback rockfish would exceed the harvest limits specified in federal regulation for 2023, and that in-season action must be taken to reduce the risk of overfishing.
Under California state law when federal harvest limits are projected to be exceeded, CDFW has authority to make in-season changes including adjustments to bag and sub-bag limits.
Quillback rockfish, which are found from Kodiak Island in Alaska to Southern California, can grow to up to 25 inches in length and 7.2 pounds, and can live for up to at least 95 years. It has a mild, sli...