Salmon fishing may be banned off California

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Officials warn that a total closure of commercial and recreational salmon fishing may be needed this year to protect dwindling Sacramento River fall-run chinook populations.

In a preseason report, the Pacific Fishery Management Council offered data showing that the 2007 Sacramento fall run reached its lowest level in 37 years. But various officials went further, warning that all salmon fishing may have to be closed in 2008 to protect the Sacramento fall-run chinook.

“This is very bad news for West Coast salmon fisheries,” council Chairman Don Hansen said. “The world ‘disaster’ comes immediately to mind.”