 Mountain Lion population management in California has varied greatly over the last century, ranging from a bounty system, 1906 to 1963, to specially protected status, 1972 present. The bounty system was effective at reducing the population, while specially protected status was likely effective in increasing it. This analysis demonstrates the effectiveness of various management approaches to influence mountain lion population trends for the desired outcomes, providing context for understanding historical aspects of mountain lions in California, which is unique from other areas due to its specially protected status. This article was authored by Justin A. Dellinger and Stephen G. Torres.