California Shuts Down Commercial Salmon Fishing for Unprecedented Third Year

The Pacific Fishery Management Council cites worsening Chinook salmon forecasts as it limits fishing to a small recreational quota, deepening economic strain on coastal communities.

• The Pacific Fishery Management Council has closed California's commercial salmon fishing season for 2025, marking the third consecutive year of closure due to record-low Chinook salmon populations.
• A limited recreational fishing season will allow a quota of 7,000 Chinook salmon statewide, with fishing permitted during select weekends in June and July.
• The closures, blamed on long-term environmental damage and water diversions, have devastated California's fishing industry, putting hundreds of fishers and related businesses at risk.
• Federal relief funds promised in 2023 have yet to be distributed, compounding financial challenges for affected communities and industries.
• Experts remain divided on the prospects of salmon recovery, with some advocating for habitat restoration and reduced water diversions, while others express skepticism about significant population rebounds.

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