IMO, instead of looking at the "drop" in 2002 as a decrease, focus instead on the rise from 1997 to 2000...... (There's no decrease unless there's a rise) So, what caused the rise? How about the release of salvaged fish (striped bass) from the pumps raised in pens in various locations in the upper bay and released in the early 90's when the section 10 permit was still valid.
I saw first hand the huge bio-mass (striped bass) that stretched from Pacifica to the Brothers in the summer of 1998.... all mostly 'cookie cutter' schoolies at around 8 pounds which indicates same year class for this observer. I am convinced that the acres and acres of 8# striped bass that sat off Pacifica for the entire month of July in 1998 was directly attributable to the net pen rearing project allowed under the Section 10 permit in the early 90's. (Section 10 permit was not reissued for reason we all know too well)
I also saw first hand what a tremendous impact all those fish had on the fishing economy from San Mateo County to entire delta region. I'm sure it bode well for areas higher up in the system, but I didn't see it first hand.
At the same time, Flyfishing for striped bass in the delta took off like a wildfire too. Everything to do with fishing for striped bass at that time from boat sales to bucktails was red hot.... Fly shops were actually opening for business, not closing like today......
It's safe to say that the delta striped bass fishing from 1998 to 2000 was very good.... remember how well simple locations like Mildred and Franks fished back in those days..... No need to boat around 50 to 60 miles a day to find fish.....
BTW, the salmon fishing wasn't too shabby during that same time too. The area was alive!
Of course, we all know what happened from 2001 to the present...... Hint... several 20,500 hp motors running night and day moving water 197 feet uphill at a record setting pace...... Still don't know.... how about a 25 to 40 year annuity that pays an elite group of people who continue to obtain tremendous favorable legislation for their annuity.....
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