State Bill Threatens the Future of Sportfishing in California, Similar Bills Expected Across the U.S.

Policy aims to protect 30% of the oceans by 2030 

California’s state legislature is considering a bill that the entire sportfishing industry should have on its radar, as it not only threatens fishing access in the state but has implications nationwide.

California bill AB 3030 aims to protect 30% of the state’s lands and waters, and help to advance protection of 30% of the entire nation’s oceans, by 2030. This bill has the potential to lead to the creation of new, arbitrary marine protected areas in which recreational fishing could be banned.

The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) and other sportfishing groups are concerned about the broad and sweeping nature of the bill, which cleared the California State Assembly last week and now awaits consideration by the state Senate.

“Even outside California, we need to be watching this closely,” said Danielle Cloutier, ASA’s Pacific Fisheries Policy director. “We’re seeing signs that this policy is being taken under consideration in other states and in Congress. ASA is actively working alongside its partners in California to oppose this bill as it currently stands and to seek changes that would clarify that no unnecessary closures to recreational fishing would result from this bill.”

ASA is promoting an action alert, pasted below, for all anglers in California to register their concerns with their State Senator. Please help us spread the word about this far-reaching bill by sharing this link with your California contacts. https://www.votervoice.net/KAF/campaigns/74786/respond

CALIFORNIANS – OPPOSE AB 3030!

The California State Assembly recently passed a bill known as AB 3030 that could have significant consequences for recreational fishermen. The bill now moves to the Senate, and your voice is needed to help prevent the harmful parts of it from becoming law.

This sweeping bill would set a goal of conserving at least 30% of California’s lands and waters by 2030. While every angler understands the importance of conservation, this goal has already been achieved by California’s existing laws – and at or more than the 30% goal.

This proposed law directs the state to consider new marine protected areas in which recreational fishing may be banned. These arbitrary closures would significantly impact your ability to access your favorite fishing areas.

Please contact your Senator today and urge them to oppose AB 3030 as it currently stands.