Fishing, Fun, and Conservation at Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

On Saturday, July 27th, military families from across the Bay area gathered for an unforgettable day of fishing at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. This event, organized by the National Park Trust, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, and NOAA Fisheries, aimed to blend outdoor recreation with marine conservation education.

Participants assembled at the pier early in the morning, catching the last glimpses of sunrise through the overcast sky. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary representatives provided an insightful introduction to the local marine sanctuary, discussing the diverse wildlife and the importance of protecting this vital ecosystem. Shortly thereafter, families boarded the fishing charter, embarking on a swift journey to the first fishing spot in the bay. Along the way, they saw seals lounging on the rocks and even a few whales were spotted throughout the day!

Families learned how to hook bait and cast lines, quickly mastering the art of fishing. Multiple fish species were caught as the charter moved between multiple fishing spots. The day finished with participants taking home their catch (over 300 fish!) and their fishing gear to use on future adventures.

This event provided a fun-filled day of fishing and instilled a deeper appreciation for marine conservation among the participating military families. The participants all left excited to come back!

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation provided funds to the National Park Trust to offer these fishing opportunities to elementary-aged students, military service members, and their families in national marine sanctuaries nationwide.

This event at Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the third of five fishing events at national marine sanctuaries nationwide in 2024. The remaining event locations include Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary in Maryland and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary in California. These events aim to combine education and recreation, encouraging a greater appreciation for marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices.