Why is Pier Fishing so Popular in California

If you talk to fishermen & women along the California who are fishing free from California piers, you'll discover that many never eat a single fish caught. Why? Some fish are not the proper size or type for good eating. And some fish are on a list to avoid. Public piers often located around cities are great places for fish, but there are warnings from the California Department of Fish & Game about what fish you should avoid for health's sake, due to high concentrations of lead and chemicals found in the fish. It's a pretty sad fact about our waters and ocean health, but like it or not, that's the truth.

So if you aren't going to eat fish, why catch them? We went out wandering on a handful of Southern California urban piers asking that very question. We asked grown-ups of various ethnicities, ages and of both genders. And the answers came in quite similar with people responding that fishing is fun.

Therapeutic, healthy sunshine, a challenge, surprises from the sea (kids comments), and connection with nature, are some reasons people cite for pier fishing.

Fish advisories from the California DFG are less, now that budgets have been trimmed, but for a general guideline, avoid eating Barracuda, black croaker, Topsmelt, barred sand bass and white croaker.

Many chemicals have elevated levels in fish--mercury, PCBs, and DDTs. To reduce the levels of these chemicals, skin the fish when possible and trim any visible fat. Use a cooking method such as baking, broiling, grilling, or steaming that allows the juices to drain away from the fish. The juices will contain chemicals and should be thrown away. If you make stews or chowders, use fillet parts.