The Central Coast Sportfishing industry hit hard by salmon season shutdown

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, Calif. – The annual ocean salmon season along the California Central Coast and Oregon has been shutdown for the first time in years.

Ocean salmon fishing season usually runs from May through October.

Fishery managers point to diversion of water for agriculture and cities, combined with the drought, for loss of habitat for spawning salmon.

The decision is expected to impact the commercial and recreational sportfishing industry hard.
Last year the industry’s economic value was an estimated at $460 million for fish sales and related businesses, including restaurants, tackle shops, private fishing guides, campgrounds and other services.