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Does spring have you thinking about the birds and the bees? Good. As a gardener, you need a variety of insects and other creatures to pollinate your plants.

Early on one of those freezing mornings I came across a large stand of California native toyon shrubs, every branch covered with juicy red berries. Dozens of songbirds were enjoying the feast, loading up and bracing for another cold night. You couldn't ask for a more Christmas-ey plant. Bright red and green — the Christmas colors. I made a note to put toyon on my list for gift ideas. What would be better than to give my loved ones something that feeds the birds and the spirit?

When it comes to ocean fishing, you can take your pick, as many species are biting. Offshore waters have produced albacore, while along the canyon edges, salmon fishing remains strong. Inshore fishing for rockfish, lingcod and halibut has been very good. Striped bass continue to be caught along the beaches for shore-based anglers.

I have been happy to see rain lately. It may not be a wet year but any rain helps fish. On another positive “fish note,” the prospects for salmon season look very good.