Digital platform allows anglers to monitor catch totals and track in-season closures.
As California’s ocean salmon season returns, anglers now have a new way to monitor catch progress and stay informed throughout the season.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) recently announced the launch of new digital tracking tools designed to provide real-time visibility into both recreational and commercial in-season ocean salmon harvests.
Available through CDFW’s Ocean Salmon Fishery Information webpage, the new tools allow anglers to track the number of salmon landed and monitor how much remains under each region’s harvest guideline. The information is intended to help anglers better plan trips while supporting in-season fishery management and sustainable harvest goals.
According to CDFW, ocean salmon fisheries are managed using regional harvest guidelines and may close early if catch thresholds are reached before scheduled season end dates.
“We’re excited to give salmon anglers the data they need to better plan their fishing seasons while at the same time leveraging technology to support in-season management and sustainable fisheries,” CDFW Director Meghan Hertel said in a statement.
For recreational anglers, catch information will generally be updated twice per month throughout the season. Recreational estimates are calculated using half-month sample periods, with reporting divided between the first and second halves of each month. CDFW noted updates may become more frequent if harvest levels begin approaching regional limits.
Any emergency closures or changes to fishing opportunities will also be posted through the online platform.
California’s 2026 recreational ocean salmon season opened April 11 in the Monterey management area south of Pigeon Point to the U.S.-Mexico border.
Additional season openings are scheduled for:
• June 13 in the California Klamath Management Zone and Fort Bragg area (California/Oregon border south to Point Arena)
• June 27 in the San Francisco management area (Point Arena to Pigeon Point)
Fishing opportunities are scheduled to continue through designated open periods between June and August or until regional harvest guidelines are reached. Portions of the Monterey and San Francisco regions are also expected to reopen in September under separate fall harvest guidelines.
CDFW encourages anglers to review current regulations before departing, including season dates, bag limits, possession rules, and gear requirements. Public notifications regarding in-season changes will continue to be issued through the National Marine Fisheries Service Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline and the CDFW Ocean Salmon Regulations Hotline.
For current harvest updates and salmon season information, visit CDFW’s Ocean Salmon Fishery Information resources.
