Fishermen’s Gear Recovery Program
Powered by California’s Commercial Fishing Fleet
An industry-led collaboration of Californian Dungeness crab fishermen working together to retrieve lost gear and keep the ocean clean.
A Proud Tradition of Ocean Stewardship
For generations, Dungeness crab fishermen have worked the rugged California coastline, bringing fresh seafood to your table and supporting vibrant coastal communities. Caring for the ocean has always been part of their way of life.
Fishermen have traditionally retrieved lost gear during and after the fishing season, to keep California’s oceans clear of debris. The Fishermen’s Gear Recovery Network builds on this legacy by bringing the fleet together in a coordinated effort to expand these clean-up activities. As ocean conditions change and weather patterns become more unpredictable, this collective approach helps ensure the fishery remains resilient.
Gear can be lost during storms, strong currents, or when snagged by passing vessels, which is an inevitable part of working in a dynamic and challenging marine environment. This network helps fishermen clean up after the season, reduce gear conflicts, prevent marine wildlife entanglements, and demonstrate their enduring commitment to healthy oceans.
These hardworking fishermen are ocean stewards at heart, ensuring that vibrant fisheries and thriving coastal communities continue for generations to come.
Why This Work Matters
A Growing Network
Organized program recovery efforts began in Half Moon Bay and San Francisco, through collaborations between local fishing associations and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). These early programs have already removed thousands of traps, proving the effectiveness of fishermen-led recovery.
At the 2024 Dungeness Crab Task Force (DCTF) meeting, there was a formal recommendation for TNC and PCFFA to partner and expand recovery efforts statewide. With the generous support of the Ocean Protection Council (OPC), this vision is now becoming reality.
Together, we are building a formalized Fishermen’s Gear Recovery Network and working with ports to launch new programs and expand efforts across California.
How the Program Works
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Step 1
Gear is spotted by maritime users and reported through the Gear Spotting Form.
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Step 2
Lost gear is recovered by compensated commercial fishermen through coordinated efforts.
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Step 3
Port coordinators process and store recovered gear, then locate the owner.
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Step 4
Recovered gear is sold back to its owner at a low cost, keeping the ocean clean and the fishery strong.
Leading the Effort
“After a decade managing local gear recovery, I’m excited to build a network to bring this work together. ”
“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”
Help Us Keep California’s Ocean Clean
Program Partners
