California fishing license sales up during pandemic
State officials warn of dangerous algae
State officials warn of dangerous algae
State officials warn of dangerous algae
Unless your favorite fishing hole is top secret, you may have noticed a few more anglers fishing along the river banks and lake shores.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is reporting a spring surge in sales of fishing licenses.
The number of people buying sport fishing licences is up 10% over the same time last year, according to state officials.
"It’s pretty remarkable when you think we had COVID-related delays to the trout seasons that open up in the mountains and to the popular ocean salmon seasons," said Peter Tira, spokesman for the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Fishing offers people a way to get outside and enjoy nature, while at the same time physical distancing from others.
"People are discovering that fishing is a great way to relieve stress. It’s a good way to physical distance, it’s a good way to get some mental relief, some good physical activity that’s safe. People are rediscovering fishing in California and we’re excited about that," Tira said.
With the excitement for fishing comes a warning to be on the lookout for dangerous algae blooms.
This is the time of year when water starts to warm up, becomes stagnant and can be a the perfect host for harmful algae blooms, also referred to as HABs.
Blue green algae forms is one algae common to California waterways.
When it grows in dense of enough concentrations it can release a dangerous toxin.
"They are particularly harmful to children and dogs. They can be toxic, they have smaller body sizes, they tend to be in the water more often swimming, they tend to drink the water. Dogs will get out and lick their fur afterwards so they increase their exposure and risk," Tira said.
Anglers are being asked to keep an eye out for the the dangerous algae blooms and report them to state officials for testing.
Residents can check the status of an area lake or river and also report algae blooms on a website called My Water Quality.