“Illegal lobster harvesting in marine reserves threatens California’s marine ecosystems. CDFW officers work year-round to protect these natural resources, helping ensure healthy oceans and sustainable wildlife populations for current and future generations.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

LA JOLLA – On June 13, 2026, during an early morning extreme low tide patrol, a CDFW officer contacted an individual suspected of illegally harvesting lobster in the South La Jolla State Marine Reserve, a designated no-take marine protected area where the take of all marine resources is prohibited. An inspection of the subject’s belongings revealed he was in possession of 24 lobsters, 21 of which were undersized.

Beyond being out of season, all the lobsters had spear holes in them, confirming they were also illegally taken with a spear and many of the lobsters were females that were carrying eggs.

The lobsters and the suspect’s spearfishing equipment were seized as evidence and the suspect was arrested for multiple counts of several violations including taking lobster out of season, possessing undersized lobster, exceeding the daily bag limit of lobster, harvesting within a state marine reserve, using an unlawful method of take, fishing without a valid license, and failing to possess a measuring device. Penalties for these crimes are expensive. Violators face a maximum of $1,000 per violation and up to six months of jail time.

CDFW wildlife officers remain committed to protecting California’s coastal resources and will continue proactive patrols to deter poaching in sensitive marine protected areas. Lobster seasons, size limits, and other restrictions are in place to help keep the population sustainable for current and future fishing opportunities.