The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced two modifications to the 2024-2025 ocean salmon fisheries for areas from Cape Falcon, Oregon, to the U.S./Mexico border. This change, effective until further notice, is in response to anticipated low numbers of specific salmon species, which are in danger of being overfished. Action #17 affects recreational and certain commercial salmon fisheries south of Cape Falcon, while Action #18 impacts commercial fisheries between Cape Falcon and the Oregon/California border. These adjustments are meant to protect the salmon populations while allowing continued fishing opportunities.
Simple Explanation
The government is changing the rules about how people can catch salmon in the ocean off the West Coast because there aren't a lot of salmon left right now. They want to make sure there are enough salmon for the future while still letting people fish.