Herring, harmonies, and help wanted:

Well... herring season is starting to look about as close to a total bust as I've ever seen. Not to be alarmist but... damn. I spoke with some biologists who indicated they're seeing a few scattered schools in the usual spots: Sausalito, Richmond etc. But not enough for anyone to drop a net on. There was a short, relatively minor spawn on the east side of T.I. (in the cove near the Coast Guard station) about a month ago, but that's been it. Despite the low spawning numbers DFW opened the commercial season. Which would indicate that the people managing the fishery are not particularly concerned about the apparent absence of fish. Also, the sport bag limit did not go into effect as everyone thought it would. Herring populations tend to fluctuate naturally. So the million dollar question is: are the low numbers due to natural ebb and flow of Pacific herring populations or something more insidious? Although there are exceptions to this rule, small schooling fish species are less likely to be impacted by (tightly regulated) fishing practices, than they are by oceanic conditions. Herring, like smelt, need cold, (and relatively clean) water. Without it they perish. Anyhoo... maybe the herring are just late this year. Hoping that's all it is. Maybe we'll have a big February! If you want to talk herring, or listen to us sing about them come to the Sausalito Herring Festival on January 26th where The Fishwives will be singing ribald oceanic odes to our favorite clupeid.

1. NEW TOUR DATES! Join me in Half Moon Bay THIS THURSDAY 1/23 and San Francisco for coastal fishing and foraging. Grab a friend and explore our local bounty! *TICKETS* for NEW SF & Half Moon Bay DATES (through April) & gift certificates.

2. HELP WANTED! Sea Forager CSF is looking for a part time delivery driver and/or seafood processor at Fisherman's Wharf.

No experience necessary, just a willingness to learn, an interest in the ocean, and a sense of humor. Competitive hourly and fishy perks.

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4. KNOW YOUR FISHERMAN:

If you're still looking for a delicious, ethical seafood source, check out my sustainable seafood CSF with locations all around the SF Bay Area pickup locations, and drop me a line if you'd like to host (and enjoy free fish.)

Until next time, fish on!

Kirk-out