Skip to main content

California has canceled salmon season — here’s why that matters

After years of drought finally fade, Californians are hit with yet another devastating problem

For most Californians currently getting pummeled by atmospheric rivers of rain, it’s hard to believe there could possibly still be effects of a drought that, right about now, seems like a distant memory. USA Today reports that after all of the recent California storms, data reveals that parts of California are 200% over the historical average for rainfall year to date.

In fact, after decades of California’s uncomfortable parch, only 36% of the state is still in drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. And while this is obviously welcome news after such a difficult period, there is, of course, a chain reaction after such drastic dryness. One of those reactions is that California has had to cancel its 2023 ocean salmon fishing season.

Recommended Videos

Due to the drought, salmon populations have decreased significantly. In 2022, of the 196,000 Chinook salmon expected, only 60,000 adults returned to the Sacramento River to spawn. According to the fish and wildlife department, this was dangerously close to a record low for the area.

Public Domain Images / Pixabay

As a result, the state has teamed up with the National Marine Fisheries Service, including state agencies in Oregon, to ban salmon fishing along the coast from Cape Falcon, Oregon, to the U.S./Mexico border. The ban will run until May 15, and could potentially last through April 2024.

This isn’t the first time this has happened. Salmon fishing was also banned due to drought during the 2008/2009 season. And while the ban did increase the salmon population, it also resulted in what NOAA called a “collapse of the salmon fishery.” According to their research, the 2008 ban forced 1,200 fishing boats to stay in port, and as many as 23,000 jobs were lost. The salmon fishing industry is one upon which tens of thousands of Californians depend, and another ban could result in an absolutely devastating loss.

In the meantime, you’re likely to see higher-priced salmon dishes when you go out to eat (or other fish entirely) — and it’s probably a good time to perfect your cooking skills when it comes to salmon alternatives.

Lindsay Parrill
Lindsay is a graduate of California Culinary Academy, Le Cordon Bleu, San Francisco, from where she holds a degree in…
Burgers and Champagne? A chef explains why this unusual pairing really works
Executive Chef Sebastien Chaoui of The Chester teaches us about burgers and Veuve Clicquot champagne.
burger in yellow takeout box

The Chester Burger. 8 ounce Angus patty, Veuve Clicquot caramalized red onion, plum tomato confit, Veuve Clicquot tempura onion ring, Swiss cheese. Liz Clayman / Veuve Clicquot

A frosty beer might be the most obvious pairing for grilled burgers, but for a next-level drink pairing, champagne is an excellent choice. To understand the flavors and techniques of this pairing, we spoke to Executive Chef Sebastien Chaoui of The Chester, the patio restaurant of the Gansevoort Hotel in New York. Chef Chaoui has created two burgers at The Chester for this pairing: The Chester Burger and The Ratatouille Burger, all with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label.

Read more
Why these methods of cooking are best when you want to retain nutrients
Learn all about healthy cooking methods
Man with apron in industrial kitchen

 

Cooking with a variety of methods can not only save you time in the kitchen but also maximize the nutrient content of your food. The way you cook and prepare food has a significant impact on its nutritional value.

Read more
How to cook salmon: A complete beginner’s guide
Have you tried salmon en papillote?
Raw salmon on plate

When it comes to seafood, Americans can't seem to get enough salmon. We love this beautiful fish for its heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, its culinary versatility, its gorgeous flavor, and its stunning hue. Salmon is a regular weekly staple in many homes, and for good reason. This multitalented little beauty shines in just about any preparation, be it baked, broiled, steamed, poached, seared, or grilled. So, if you've only ever explored just one or two of these delicious methods for cooking salmon, it's time to up your game and try out a new preparation. You may just find a new favorite.
Shopping for salmon

When shopping for salmon, there are a few basic guidelines to keep in mind that will help to ensure you end up with the freshest, most flavorful filet possible.

Read more