Proposed Amendments to Sections 5.75(c) and (d), and 27.85(c), Title 14, California Code of Regulations, Re: Striped Bass Harvest Limits

The California Fish and Game Commission is proposing amendments to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, specifically subsections 5.75(c) and (d) and 27.85(c), to modify striped bass harvest limits for sport fishing starting with the 2026 season. The primary change involves the implementation of a slot limit in anadromous and marine waters north of Point Conception, restricting the harvest of striped bass to those between 18 and 30 inches in total length. The existing daily bag limit of two fish and the current fishing season will remain unchanged. This regulatory action is supported by a Negative Declaration issued under the California Environmental Quality Act, which concluded that the amendments will not have significant environmental impacts. The proposal was developed using angler preference questionnaires, population model parameter justifications, and literature reviews regarding striped bass predation on native salmonids. The Commission is scheduled to consider the adoption of these amendments during its October 8, 2025, meeting, with an expected effective date of January 1, 2026, pending approval by the Office of Administrative Law.