An individual in California was arrested after being caught illegally spearfishing lobster in the South La Jolla State Marine Reserve, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).
“CDFW wildlife officers remain committed to protecting California’s coastal resources and will continue proactive patrols to deter poaching in sensitive marine protected areas,” CDFW said in a social media post. “Lobster seasons, size limits, and other restrictions are in place to help keep the population sustainable for current and future fishing opportunities.”
According to the department, a CDFW wildlife officer approached an individual harvesting lobster in the reserve during an extreme low tide on 13 June. The reserve is a designated no-take marine protected area where all fishing and harvesting is prohibited. A subsequent inspection revealed 24 lobsters, 21 of which were undersized. Many of the lobsters were confirmed to be egg-carrying females.
The officer also confirmed that the lobsters had been harvested via spear – which is illegal – after observing spear holes in the lobsters’ shells.
The suspect was arrested on several fishing violations, including taking lobster out of season, possessing undersized lobster, exceeding the daily bag limit of lobster, harvesting within a state marine reserve, using an unlawful method of take, fishing without a valid license, and failing to possess a measuring device. Both the shellfish and the spearfishing equipment were taken into evidence. The suspect faces a maximum fine of USD 1,000 (EUR 875) per violation.
