Looks like Monterey Bay anglers are getting a Christmas present from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The CDFW announced this week they will be opening a limited season for commercial crabbing in our area, as well as relaxing the regulations regarding long-soak crab pots for recreational anglers. On January 2, 2026 recreational crabbers can legally use crab pots again, as the CDFW is “lifting  the temporary recreational crab trap restrictions” at 8:01 am on that date. Commercial crabbers are clear to start pulling pots on January 5, with pre-soak allowed starting on January 2, 2026.

Other recent news reveals optimistic opinions on more “normal” salmon regulations and fishing seasons for both recreational and commercial fishermen in 2026.  Number predictions, especially in the Sacramento River system which includes the American and Mokelumne rivers expect a good return rate for spawning salmon in 2026, and a very healthy biomass of king salmon in the salt at this time. One model predicts the total fishable stock of adult salmon in the ocean for 2026 to be between 400,000 and 800,000 fish. With a normal fishery harvest rate of around 50%, this could result in an escapement (fish returning to spawn) of 200,000 to 400,000 salmon to the Sacramento system, a number well above the management target of 120,000–180,000.

The RCG Complex (rockcod, cabezon and greenling) fishing season will close after December 31, 2025. Do not despair. We have plenty of opportunity for fishing action and delectable table fare between now and springtime. Setting crab pots rather than using hoop nets, allows anglers to soak their traps overnight or longer, gathering (and holding) as many crab as possible for each individual pull. While out on those flat areas in 140-250 feet of water, fishing for sand dabs and sole can be very productive. The middle of Monterey Bay can host such a wide variety of species. Even in mid-winter there’s also a good chance of breezing bonita or big mackerel. All of the above named species are legal to pursue during the winter months.

Surfcasting was hit or miss  this week, only because of the storms and rough water conditions. the fish are here, it’s more a matter of finding and taking advantage of a good window to go on the hunt. Reports from all the beaches lining Monterey Bay mention the barred surf perch numbers as well as the average size increasing.