Thanks, Leapin' Bass for bringing this to our attention. This is the first serious discussion I've heard of the DFG plan to create marine reserves/parks along our coast. And frankly, I'm appalled by their cavalier approach to the whole thing. I just read the SB Newspress story about this topic, which Leapin' Bass alluded to. It appears that proposed marine reserves/parks were chosen based solely upon their richness in marine life or diversity or historical value, and not whether these areas are being depleted of fish. Based upon personal experience, I believe that most of these areas being proposed from Carpinteria through Pt. Conception are NOT being overfished. Hey, I'm all for limiting commercial fishing but who is their target here? Is this the DFG's attempt at being proactive or merely their attempt at taking the best fishing areas away while adhering to the 1998 MLPA? Or are there other political factors at work here?

I wonder what the local sportfishing boats think of this (i.e. Jason Diamond)? I will show my support at the July 24th meeting and will try to bring some buddies as well.