MARINA DEL REY — In a continued effort to support Southern California’s marine ecosystem, the Marina del Rey Anglers (MDRA) released 3,400 juvenile White Seabass into Santa Monica Bay on March 17. The release was split between Marina del Rey Harbor and a nearby rock outcropping off Venice Beach, marking another chapter in the club’s decades-long commitment to replenishing fish populations.
The young seabass, originally delivered in October by Hubbs SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) in San Diego, were raised in MDRA’s two grow-out pens at Burton Chace Park. Over several months, a dedicated group of volunteers known as the “Pen Pals” nurtured the 5-inch hatchlings until they reached a robust 8 to 9 inches — large enough to survive in the wild. These fish are expected to grow to the legal catch size of 28 inches within two to three years, contributing to a more sustainable future for local anglers.
This initiative is part of the Ocean Resources Enhancement and Hatchery Program (OREHP), a California state project fully funded by the Sport Fish Enhancement Stamp — an added fee on fishing licenses that supports marine conservation. Since its founding in 1975, MDRA has grown beyond its sportfishing club roots to become a leader in grassroots marine stewardship, having now released more than 140,000 White Seabass into Southern California waters.
“MDRA’s efforts to raise and release White Seabass are a commitment to our mission of improving the quality of sportfishing,” said Keith Moret, MDRA Conservation Chair, who led the recent release. “Our success is thanks to the dedication of our 14 Pen Pals and the continued support from HSWRI. I also want to thank Captain Mike Reinsch of the Betty-O Sportfishing for transporting the fish to their new home. This program is a true team effort and a win for our ocean.”
Support also came from the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors, which has long championed MDRA’s work. “The harbor’s clean waters make it a perfect nursery for these fish,” said an MDRA spokesperson. “We’re incredibly thankful for their partnership and the healthy environment they help maintain.”
In addition to fish releases, MDRA engages the community through educational tours, providing students with a firsthand look at conservation in action. While grow-out pens exist from San Diego to Santa Barbara, Marina del Rey’s operation is known for its larger scale, consistency, and high fish survival rates.
Each White Seabass released by MDRA carries a coded wire tag embedded in its cheek — a small detail that makes a big difference. Anglers who catch legal-size seabass are encouraged to drop off the fish’s head at participating collection stations. HSWRI uses the data to track where each fish was born, raised, and released, offering researchers crucial insights into the program’s long-term impact. More information is available at hswri.org/get-involved/citizens-science.
Whether you’re a conservationist, recreational fisherman, or just a fan of a good fish taco, MDRA’s work highlights how sustainable fishing depends on community action and long-term care. To learn more or get involved, visit mdranglers.com, or contact MDRA Vice President and Media Chair Derrek Stewart at 310-367-1147 or [email protected].
