Phasing Out Gill Nets

Commercial fishermen and conservationists have formed an unusual coalition in support of state legislation that would ban gill-net fishing along the Central California coast. Gill nets, made of loosely woven monofilament plastic, inadvertently trap and drown hundreds of sea mammals and marine birds each year. But to the fishing industry these controversial nets are inexpensive ways to make large catches of halibut, flounder and white croaker fish.

The bill--SB 40, sponsored by state Sen. Milton Marks (D-San Francisco)--is a compromise measure that would protect the environment and provide financial incentives for gill-net fishermen to convert to newer, safer fishing methods at no cost to the state’s general fund. The bill now needs Gov. George Deukmejian’s signature.

Gill-net fishing along the central shoreline of California ensnares an estimated 200 to 300 harbor porpoises each year. The use of the plastic nets has already reduced by two-thirds the population of the common murre, a marine bird that is indigenous to the central coast. Similar gill-net legislation covering Northern California has been successful in protecting sea lions and sea otters.

In addition, SB 40 would provide $450,000 in low-interest loans to fishermen for the replacement of their gill nets. The money, originally a fishermen’s relief fund, was allocated after the 1983-84 El Nino brought unusually warm currents and high tides that created an unstable market in the industry. The money was not used, however, and later legislation earmarked it for gill-net replacement loans.

Although the measure would permit fishermen to sell their 1987-88 gill-net licenses--primarily in Southern California, where gill-net fishing is still allowed--few are expected to re-sell the $100 permits.

Gill-net fishing should be banned throughout California’s coastal waters. Another measure also waiting for the governor’s signature is AB 1094, sponsored by Assemblyman Gerald N. Felando (R-San Pedro). This bill would ban gill-net fishing at critical land points in Southern California during the migration of the gray whale.

We urge the governor to support both SB 40 and AB 1094. These are reasonable measures, and good steps toward eliminating all gill-net fishing along the California coast.