Angler perceptions of California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) depredation and marine policy in Southern California

摘要: California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) off the coast of Southern are known to damage both commercial and recreational fishing activities, causing decreases fish catch gear. Their increasing population has intensified potential for conflict between anglers, likely requiring changes current legislation. The community in is a valuable largely underutilized source information solutions management legislative problems. This survey-based study conducted 2013 utilized personal interviews, field with anglers passenger vessel (CPFV) crews California, gather data on: (a) occurrence impact lion depredation on local fishing, (b) angler awareness opinions legislation, (c) activities conservation efforts. Results show that surveyed CPFV operators private boaters had most perceive them as more problem than piers, jetties or kayaks. was also reportedly prevalent San Diego County compared other counties (Orange, Los Angeles Ventura). Participating were overwhelmingly support government culling program lions, while respondents did not feel control necessary. These reported money lost, willing pay an effective deterrent device. There consensus among declining, yet unsatisfied effectiveness legislation designed increase stocks. will provide better understanding its effect order aid future mitigation Additionally, these results stakeholder feedback marine protected areas fisheries build foundation education programs.