Dungeness crab fishermen along a major stretch of the Northern California coast are being ordered to remove their traps from the water by May 22nd.
State wildlife officials say the restriction covers coastal waters from the Sonoma-Mendocino County line all the way south to Pigeon Point near Half Moon Bay.
The strict seasonal rule is intended to protect migrating humpback whales from becoming tangled in commercial crab fishing gear. Officials note that while the traditional commercial traps are being banned for the season, hoop nets and snares will still be allowed during the restriction period.
The early closure marks yet another shortened season for the local crabbing fleet as the state continues its efforts to safeguard marine wildlife.
