Golden Gate Fishermen’s Association Announces Reopening of State Waters for Rockfish

San Francisco, CA – The Golden Gate Fishermen’s Association (GGFA) is pleased to announce that, effective as of 4:30 PM on Thursday, August 28, 2025, all California state waters are now open for rockfishing.

For anglers in the San Francisco Bay Area, this marks a historic moment as the Farallon Islands (closed for the past three years) are once again accessible for rockfish opportunities.

“This is an exciting day for our fleet and for local anglers,” said Michael Rescino, President of the Golden Gate Fishermen’s Association. “The reopening of the Farallons represents not only expanded fishing access but also a vital boost to coastal communities that rely on sustainable recreational fisheries.”

The Golden Gate Fishermen’s Association would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for listening to our members and working tirelessly to pass this emergency legislation. GGFA also thanks Board Member Tim Klassen for spearheading this effort and for his continued work in making this a reality.

GGFA reminds all fishermen that restrictions remain in place in federal waters. Additionally, all state rockfish regulations remain fully in effect, including size and bag limits, seasonal rules, and protections for special closure areas such as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and State Marine Reserves (SMRs).

GGFA encourages all anglers to fish responsibly, respect these closures, and help protect the health of California’s marine resources for future generations.