California has closed its Dungeness crab fishery off the central and southern coast early to reduce the risk of humpback whale entanglements. This marks the fifth consecutive season of delayed openings due to high humpback whale numbers. The 2022 season opened on December 31st with a 50 percent trap reduction. The 2023 commercial fishery opening will be delayed in specific zones, and the use of crab traps in recreational fisheries is temporarily prohibited in some areas. The decision is based on NOAA observer reports and consultations with a working group. The closures have caused difficulties for fishermen, and there are efforts to develop and test pop-up gear to prevent entanglements in the future.
