“CDFW is working to protect the abalone population throughout California as the number of abalone dwindles.  We have precious resources in our state and we thank CDFW officers for protecting our environment, fish and wildlife.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

SONOMA COUNTY – On December 3, 2025, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced the arrest of a suspect for taking and possessing abalone with intent to sell. During the recent minus tide along the Sonoma Coast, two wildlife officers spotted lights down at Ocean Cove — the kind of lights that usually mean someone is doing more than sightseeing.

From a distance, the officers watched several individuals moving through the cove and placing items into containers. When the group made its way back up the access road, the officers positioned themselves out of sight and waited.

One individual carrying a bag was contacted. CDFW officers located 15 poached red abalone. The individual was detained while officers checked the rest of the group. No additional arrests were made, but the individual in possession of the abalone was transported to the Sonoma County Detention Facility and booked for taking and possessing abalone with intent to sell. A report will be filed with the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office.

Due to dwindling abalone numbers and environmental stressors, take of all abalone species is closed throughout California.