Caught in the Net: Fishermans Attempt to Hide Illegal Catch Unravels at Pier 45

A commercial fisherman at San Francisco’s Pier 45 attempted to evade authorities by concealing unlawful catches behind a false wall on their boat. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) officers discovered fillets of salmon, despite the fishery’s closure since 2023 to aid in population recovery. The vessel owner was observed unloading burlap sacks into a vehicle and later found at a restaurant trying to conceal fish. They possessed halibut, filleted salmon, sole, and sanddabs not declared for commercial sale. Authorities seized 2,365 pounds of halibut and submitted a formal complaint to the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. The confiscated halibut was declared the next day, sold, and proceeds were donated to the Fish and Game Preservation Fund. To report poaching, pollution, or fish and wildlife violations, individuals can anonymously contact CDFW at the toll-free CALTIP number 1-888-334-CALTIP (888-334-2258).