Hawaiian Throw Nets

March 9, 2023

Question: I’d like some clarification on Hawaiian type throw nets. The regulations state that dip nets of any size and baited hoop nets not greater than 36 inches may be used to take herring, Pacific staghorn sculpin, shiner surfperch, surf smelt, topsmelt, anchovies, shrimp and squid. Does this mean there are no size restrictions for Hawaiian throw nets because they are different from dipnets and baited hoop nets?

Answer: Yes, but only north of Point Conception, Santa Barbara County. California Code of Regulations, Title 14, section 28.80 does not impose any size restrictions on Hawaiian type throw nets when using them to take herring, Pacific staghorn sculpin, shiner surfperch, surf smelt, topsmelt, anchovies, shrimp and squid. However, it would not be legal to use throw nets south of Point Conception.