Salmon season opens temporarily in Monterey; June 7 and 8

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Salmon season is opening for recreational fishing starting Saturday for the first time in years.

But -- it's only for a limited time.

Recreational fishing will only be open Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8 and the time could shrink further.

A harvest limit of 7,000 salmon has been set, and if it isn't reached this weekend, more weekends could open up for fishing in July and August until the limit is reached.

Ahead of the fishing season, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is asking boaters to slow down and keep an eye out for otters.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife say they expect high boat traffic in Moss Landing and the Elkhorn Slough, raising the chances of crafts striking otters and other wildlife.

The aquarium is also telling people to follow designated "no wake" zones and to appoint an Otter Spotter to avoid crashes.