Another point to consider: We have a thorough network of MPAs, which were controversial and removed some of the best fishing areas as no-take zones. So in theory these relatively non-migratory species are already protected from an extinction threat. So a closure of all areas is completely unnecessary. The MPAs should guarantee that we will always have stocks of fish and bag limits can be adjusted up and down but not eliminated.

This would be like close the hunting season in California because they are unable to find Polar Bear in the wild.

If you can't deploy lines in the water within the restriction zone, how do you fish for halibut, salmon, threshers or anything else?

While I was rockfishing at FR, there were so many radio calls asking about rockfish identification and limits.
You can download the following Printable Fish ID Guides from this site: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean/Fish-ID
I downloaded these files to my phone and carry with me fishing.

• Nearshore Rockfish of California (PDF)(opens in new tab)
  Yelloweye Rockfish, Vermilion Rockfish, and Canary Rockfish ID (PDF)(opens in new tab)
  Yellowtail Rockfish, Olive Rockfish, and Widow Rockfish ID (PDF)(opens in new tab)
  Copper Rockfish, Gopher Rockfish, and Canary Rockfish ID (PDF)(opens in new tab)
  Quillback Rockfish, China Rockfish, and Black-and-Yellow Rockfish ID (PDF)

28.55.(b) Rockfish Limit: Ten, within the Rockfish, Cabezon, and Greenling complex (RCG complex, as
defined in Section 1.91) limit of 10 fish, in any combination of species, except as provided
below.
(1) The limit on bronzespotted rockfish, cowcod, and yelloweye rockfish is zero. These
species shall not be taken or possessed as part of the RCG limit.
(2) The limit on vermilion rockfish is four fish, within the RCG bag limit.
(3) The limit on quillback rockfish is zero fish, within the RCG bag limit.
(4) The limit on copper rockfish is one fish, within the RCG bag limit.


Paul

Coming soon to a GMA near you.