Six men were arrested for poaching dozens of lobsters at the Santa Monice Pier during the annual seasonal closure, state officials announced Tuesday.
Officials with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) said the suspects used “sophisticated methods” to poach lobsters and hide them.
Wildlife officers and specially trained K-9s were able to located the poached lobsters that the men allegedly hid in duffle bags, backpacks, cars and a baby stroller.
Overall, 34 lobsters, including egg-bearing females, were seized and returned back to the ocean alive.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The suspects were facing a number of charges, including taking lobster out of season, exceeding the daily bag limits of lobster, taking of undersized lobster, taking of lobster by hook and line and possession of more than triple the daily bag limit of lobster.
The men could face a $1,000 fine for each violation or one year in jail, according to the state.
To prevent overfishing, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife strictly manages the harvest of the California spiny lobster.
Those interested in catching lobsters must have a California sport fishing license and a Spiny Report Card while following rules, including catching the maximum of seven lobsters per day and only fish during the lobster season.
This year’s lobster season ended in March, and a new season will begin around October.
Officials urged people to report lobster poaching or any other wildlife crimes in progress by calling CALTIP 24/7 at 888-334-CALTIP (888-334-2258) or submitting a tip through the free “tip411” phone app.
