Active sportfishers should take note that in 2011, all anglers age 16 and up will be required by the California Department of Fish and Game to have a sportfishing license.
Activities that require a license are not restricted to just fish or shellfish. “Taking” or “pursuing” reptiles or amphibians are also subject to the license requirements as well, as are any kind of catch-and-release activities.
The full story
http://halfmoonbay.patch.com/articles/state-department-of-fish-and-game-issues-new-sport-fishing-license-requirement-for-2011