California Wildlife Officials Can Delay Fishing Over Virus Fears

California fish and game officials now have the power to temporarily suspend, restrict, or delay recreational fishing to protect public health threats associated with the coronavirus pandemic.

The California Fish and Game Commission voted unanimously Wednesday on an emergency regulation that gives the state Department of Fish and Wildlife authority to act on fishing seasons. The rule expires May 31.

The authority is for specific areas, not statewide, and decisions will be in consultation with local and tribal public health officials, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Chuck Bonham said.

Any changes to fishing rules must be posted online ...