Wildcoast Calls Out La Jolla Poaching Problem

South La Jolla Marine Reserve Named One of California's Most Poached

If you have ever kayaked past Bird Rock and wondered why someone was fishing where the signs clearly say not to, you are witnessing one of California's worst poaching problems in action.

The South La Jolla State Marine Reserve has earned an unfortunate distinction as one of the most heavily poached marine protected areas in the entire state, according to ocean conservation group Wildcoast. The Del Mar-based nonprofit presented these findings at the La Jolla Parks & Beaches meeting on January 26.

Wildcoast California Conservation Manager Lillie Mulligan explained that the organization uses high-tech radar systems and volunteer patrols to monitor illegal fishing activity around the clock. The numbers paint a troubling picture, with the South La Jolla reserve leading California in citations issued, and that only counts the poachers who actually get caught.

La Jolla is home to four marine protected areas established in 2012 covering waters from La Jolla Cove down to Bird Rock. These underwater sanctuaries protect everything from California spiny lobster and kelp bass to the rare giant black sea bass, allowing populations to rebuild and eventually spill over into areas where fishing is permitted.

Mulligan compared the MPAs to retirement savings, noting that a small investment now pays off significantly later. Unfortunately, some people are making early withdrawals.

Penalties for poaching range from a few hundred dollars up to $40,000, and violators can be banned from the area entirely. One Arizona poacher caught taking abalone in 2015 received three years probation, a $30,000 fine, and lost his fishing license statewide.

Wildcoast plans to replace outdated informational signs throughout La Jolla and add new markers when the Princess Street beach access trail opens. Witnesses to poaching can report violations by calling 888-334-2258 or texting CALTIP to 847411.

Sources: San Diego Union-Tribune | East Bay Times | Wildcoast | CBS 8