As locals of Laguna, the ocean isn’t just a scenic backdrop—it’s an integral part of our daily lives and our neighborhood’s identity. That’s why the current conversation regarding the future of our coastline is so important. A petition is currently before the California Fish and Game Commission (Petition 2023-24MPA_AM1) to expand the Laguna Beach Marine Protected Area (MPA) further south.
The Core of the Issue
Right now, the regulations change depending on where you are along the coast. North of Table Rock, it’s a strict no-take zone (no fishing or removal of marine life). South of Table Rock, extending into the Dana Point SMCA, some recreational and commercial fishing is permitted.
The new proposal would extend the no-take protections southward to the city’s boundary near Three Arch Bay, essentially making all Laguna Beach waters follow the exact same “no-take” rules.
As with any major change to coastal access, there are strong, passionate voices on both sides of the aisle. Here is a breakdown of the two perspectives to help you stay informed.
The Argument for Expansion (Conservation Focus)
Organizations like the Laguna Bluebelt Coalition and Orange County Coastkeeper are strongly advocating for the expansion.
- Ecological Health: Proponents point to studies showing that reefs within fully protected MPAs are healthier, more resilient, and boast denser kelp forests and more abundant fish populations.
- Simplicity and Enforcement: Advocates argue that a single, citywide no-fishing rule would be much easier for the general public to understand.
- Climate Resilience: Expanding the no-take zones is viewed as a way to provide a stronger buffer against pollution and climate change, ensuring higher biodiversity for future generations.
The Argument for Maintaining Current Boundaries (Fishing & Access Focus)
On the other side, local anglers, community groups like Save Laguna Fishing, and organizations like Backcountry Hunters & Anglers strongly oppose the expansion.
- Preserving Access: Opponents argue that California already has rigorous fishing regulations and that this expansion would unfairly lock sustainable, recreational fishers out of their own backyards and historical fishing grounds.
- Recreational & Economic Impact: The change would effectively eliminate a significant portion of the Dana Point SMCA currently open to fishing, heavily impacting local families and sportfishing operations.
- The State’s Current Stance: The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) recently evaluated the petition and actually recommended denying it. They concluded that the current boundaries were intentionally designed to balance ecological protection with human use, and that moving the border away from a physical rocky point to an invisible line on the beach could create new enforcement challenges.+1
Make Your Voice Heard
Regardless of where you stand—whether you are passionate about expanding marine protections or dedicated to defending recreational fishing access—this is a pivotal moment for our local waters.
The California Fish and Game Commission is holding a regional meeting just down the road to hear direct public input on this petition.
Meeting Details:
- Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026
- Time: Starts at 8:00 a.m. (It is highly recommended to arrive early)
- Location: Holiday Inn Express San Clemente (35 Via Pico Plaza)
We encourage all neighbors to get involved in the local democratic process. Let’s keep the conversation respectful and focused on the future of our beautiful coastline!
