California treat that has been missing for 3 years will soon return to the menu

California King Salmon Returns to Menus After Three Years

California’s beloved king salmon is making a comeback on restaurant menus after a three-year break, thanks to the recent actions taken by the local Fisheries Council.

The Pacific Fisheries Management Council announced that state waters will reopen for California king salmon fishing in 2022. This decision comes after a previous closure aimed at protecting the dwindling population during California’s extended drought.

The Council highlighted improved forecasts for Chinook salmon populations in both the Sacramento and Klamath Rivers as a key reason for this change.

“Balancing fishing opportunities while meeting conservation and management goals, along with supporting the long-term health of salmon populations and fishing communities, is crucial,” said Pete Hassemer, the Council President, in a press release.

“For 2026, we’ve structured a fishing season to create valuable opportunities for everyone involved, while responsibly managing the stock for future years.”

This news has been warmly received by fishermen and the industry, who have struggled to catch local salmon from freshwater rivers for years. However, fishing days will be shorter, and there will be limits on the catches for both commercial and recreational fishermen.

The season is set to kick off on a limited basis in May, bringing joy to many restaurants and grocery stores along the California coast that serve Chinook salmon. But due to the restricted fishing period, prices for this delicacy may be on the higher side.

“It feels like we’ve almost forgotten we have king salmon in California since it’s been so long since we’ve had wild salmon season,” said Shelley Lindgren, wine director and co-owner of the San Francisco restaurant A16 and part of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association board. “As soon as we can get it, it’s going right on the menu. We’re thrilled.”

“We love having seafood delivered right to our back door…we’re so excited,” she added.

The three-year commercial fishing closure has had a significant economic impact, with estimated losses nearing $100 million.

Vance Staplin, executive director of the Golden State Salmon Association, expressed cautious optimism regarding the reopening.

“There’s a lot of excitement when the fishing starts, which is refreshing,” he noted. “But the commercial fishermen, especially those with larger boats, might find it tough due to overhead costs.”

Similarly, Sara Bates, a commercial fisherman from San Francisco, voiced her understanding of community concerns, stating, “I really understand why people feel upset. But I’m looking forward to finally catching some fish. It’s not ideal, but at least it’s a start.”