Just a rumor, but I hear that the clamming may be spared from the MLPA for now. I hope that it's true. As I hear it, Point Reyes and Bodega Head are out, but that was expected. Remember, Point Reyes National Seashore is obviously centered on Point Reyes and the Bodega Bay Marine Laboratory is on Bodega Head. It's probably not coincidence. It makes me thankful that the University of the Pacific Marine Station in Dillon Beach closed up in the early 80's. Knowledge is good, but I like to fish too.

Nothing going with the fishing I'm afraid. Dungeness is still slow, but a gentleman dropped off a new crab pot puller at the Lawson's Landing shop to be installed on his boat since he heard "on good authority" that there were crabs out in 250'. Big crabs. Five crabs to fill a five gallon bucket if I heard the story correctly. I personally haven't caught five crabs this season, but the story has got me thinking about giving it a try. The red crab are still doing well at least, especially if you try when the tides are slow.
On another note, the MLPA Public Workshops are coming up. The closest one to Lawson's Landing is at the Sheraton Sonoma County, 745 Baywood Drive, Petaluma, at 6:00PM on February 4th. We will get to see maps of the proposed closed and restricted areas and comment on them in a very calm and well-managed manner, likely with big easels and large felt markers to write down our feelings. Plainly, it will suck, but you can't complain if you don't contribute. Also, we know they're taking Point Reyes away. We know they are also taking alot from Bodega Head. The exact lines, though, are yet to be determined. That is what we need to be there for. Maybe we can save the cove on this side of Point Reyes for halibut fishing. Maybe we can save that 60' high rock off the point as well. I'm also hoping to save the clamming areas just south of Lawson's. A man needs some way to burn off his frustration at the spring wind and digging in the mud is as good as any I've found. Anyway, I'll be there. Hope you will too.