The Center for Biological Diversity sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Tuesday to force the agency to finalize Endangered Species Act protection for the Clear Lake hitch. These rare fish are found only in Lake County and are said to be teetering on the brink of extinction. The agency missed a legally required January 2026 deadline to issue a final decision on protecting the species. The Center for Biological Diversity said the delay underscores a broader failure: In 2025 not a single plant or animal received Endangered Species Act protections, marking the first time that has happened since 1981. … Each spring, Clear Lake hitch migrate from their namesake lake into tributary streams to spawn.

Other fishery news:

• Outdoor Life: Colorado’s trout fishing forecast is grim after minimal snow pack and record heat. These are the bright spots
• The Union (Grass Valley, Calif.): Column: Salmon season set