Do sea lions taste like chicken?

[pescadore]

Here's a link to an NPR clip from last April about sealions.  Apparently, researchers have determined that after 25 years of protection the west coast sealion population is likely approaching the numbers that occurred pre-European settlement.  The article goes on to say that the feds are actually considering permitting hunting in problem areas.

When I first came out the west coast (from the NY area) 25 years ago I was astounded the first time I saw one in SF Bay.  All aquatic mammals of this size have long ago been exterminated from Long Island, where I grew up.  However, I've got to say now, after 25 years of dealing with them and their little neighbors, the harbor seals, that I still appreciate their beauty, but they are an enormous pain in the ass.

Certainly I don't advocate a massive wipeout, which was happening here ( i think) before they were protected, but it would be nice if they were even a little afraid of us.

It's probably been sensationalized, but 14 people have been bit by one male over at Aquatic Park in SF.  My son had a summer job down on the docks here in Noyo Harbor when he was seventeen and a big male jumped up on the dock and tried to bite his hand thinking the red shop towel he was holding was a salmon fillet.  Luckily, he didn't succeed, but it sure made me think about borrowing my friend's 30-30.  The old male was a well known butt pain down in the harbor.  It's funny how your perspective changes when beauty becomes danger.  Maybe the pendulum will swing back a little in the other direction.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5337923

[sackyak]

I don't know what they taste like but the old seafarers used to hunt and eat them when available.  The especially liked sea turtle but that is a different topic.  I am all in favor of sea lion hunts or at least depredation permits.  See my feelings about sea lions on this thread http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/bb/index.php?topic=6052.0 .

[littoral]

Ask this guy.

[kickfish]

I have had whale meat.  Looks a little like corned beef, but darker.  Does not taste like corned beef or chicken.

Ken kickfish

[surfingmarmot]

I wouldn't assume the taste was good just because sailors ate them. Those wooden ship sailors had pretty limited stores and just about anything tastes good when you are really hungry and sick of spoiled food. Then again the Inupiat ate seals and Walrus reguarly, so how much different can Sea Lion be? I won't be picking up a permit though--that's for sure. And of course even Snails tast good if you dip them in butter and garlic and drink enough wine 

A little fear of man would go a long way and would be useful. However, I don't think the Aquatic Park Sea Lion nor those in SC Harbor will be huntable so its isn't a complete answer

[mickfish]

If Chuck deep fries it will be Killer. If I can remember it's been a while.

[Tote]

The Landlord likes the way they taste!

[kickfish]

You Guys know the "Old Joke"  why does Tupperware and a Seal have in common to a Sealion?  The Sealion like a tight seal.