Six Men Arrested for Lobster Poaching at Santa Monica Pier During Seasonal Closure

SANTA MONICA - California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) officers arrested six men for poaching dozens of lobsters at the Santa Monica Pier while the fishery was closed for the annual seasonal protection period.

According to a CDFW announcement released Tuesday, the suspects employed sophisticated methods to harvest and conceal the protected crustaceans. The poached lobsters were hidden inside duffle bags, backpacks, vehicles, and even a baby stroller.

Wildlife officers, assisted by specially trained K-9 units, located and seized a total of 34 lobsters. Among those recovered were egg-bearing females, which were promptly returned alive to the ocean.

The men face multiple charges, including taking lobster out of season, exceeding the daily bag limit, taking undersized lobster, taking lobster by hook and line, and possession of more than triple the daily bag limit. Each violation carries potential penalties of up to a $1,000 fine or one year in county jail, state officials said.

The incident occurred at the popular Santa Monica Pier, a landmark that draws locals and tourists alike for recreation and marine viewing. The seasonal closure is designed to protect the California spiny lobster population during its vulnerable breeding period.

CDFW enforcement officers continue to patrol coastal areas to deter illegal harvesting and safeguard marine resources. No further details about the suspects' identities have been released at this time.

The Santa Monica Pier remains open for public access, but visitors are reminded that lobster fishing is strictly regulated and prohibited during the closed season.