The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has imposed a recreational crab trap restriction in Fishing Zone 3 to protect humpback whales from entanglement. - Restriction starts at 6 p.m.
on May 22, 2026, in Fishing Zone 3 (Sonoma/Mendocino County line to Pigeon Point). - Similar restriction already in place in Fishing Zones 4 and 5 since March 27, 2026.
- Recreational crabbers can still use hoop nets and snares; commercial fishery uses alternative gear in affected zones. - All open zones remain under a Fleet Advisory; best practices are encouraged.
This measure is part of the Risk Assessment Mitigation Program to reduce whale entanglement risks during foraging season.