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Introduction: Encounter with a Seafaring Giant
Beneath the green canopies of California’s kelp forests lurks a marine titan: the giant sea bass (Stereolepis gigas). For generations, its immense size and enigmatic presence have captivated fishers, scientists, and divers alike. But this ancient predator—once a symbol of oceanic abundance—now teeters on the brink, caught between the legacies of historical fisheries and the hope of new conservation efforts. Through its story, we witness the evolving relationship between humans and the ocean, science and tradition, and the ever-shifting dance of marine life under pressure and renewal.
A Fish of Legend: Historical Significance
Long before the era of modern fisheries management, the giant sea bass was an icon of coastal California. Its presence in regional folklore stretches back to the indigenous Tongva, Chumash, and other communities, who respected the animal as both a food source and a symbol of the productive kelp forest ecosystem. Early European settlers quickly learned of the species—whose individuals, sometimes weighing over 500 lbs (227 kg), would become the trophies of legends.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, S. gigas had cemented a near-mythic reputation among sport and commercial fishers from Santa Barbara south to Baja California. Historical records from newspaper reports, personal diaries, and fishing logs describe dockside celebrations whenever one of these giants was landed, with some individual fish requiring multiple men to haul from the surf. The fish were so populous and accessible in shallow waters that they became a staple for both subsistence and burgeoning commercial operations.
The appeal was not simply for sustenance or profit: the sight of a massive sea bass gliding through kelp forests symbolized the region’s ecological bounty. Images of giant sea bass graced seafood restaurant menus, sporting magazines, and even post-war tourist brochures, feeding an ever-growing human fascination. However, this relationship also set the stage for dramatic change—especially as intensive fishery practices accelerated through the 20th century.
Traditional Fishery Practices: From Subsistence to Exploitation
Indigenous Approaches and Early Gears
In pre-industrial times, indigenous peoples utilized sustainable techniques such as handlines, nets, and simple weirs crafted from branches, bone, and stone. Their selective, seasonal fishing practices—often using gear that allowed for bycatch release—imposed minimal impact on local sea bass populations up to the arrival of European settlers. Oral traditions suggest that giant sea bass were taken occasionally, often during seasonal movements near shore, and the catch was shared among communities.
Evolution of Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
As the 19th century closed, the expansion of commercial fisheries fundamentally altered the species’ trajectory. European and American fishers deployed larger gillnets, setlines, and—by the early 1900s—steam-powered fishing vessels. The giant sea bass, slow to mature and predictably aggregating during spawning seasons, proved highly vulnerable to these new techniques. Historical catch records from Southern California indicate rapidly escalating removal, with hundreds of tons landed each year in the 1920s and 1930s. The smooth operation of these fisheries was further facilitated by the improved cold storage and transport infrastructure, allowing catches to supply both local and distant markets.
Recreational fishers soon joined in, seeking not only food but also prestige. Trophy pictures and fishing contest records from the era capture immense individuals, some exceeding 7 feet (2.1 m) in length. Techniques such as hand jigging and deep-sea trolling became popular along the Santa Monica Bay, Catalina Island, and around rocky reefs extending south toward Mexico.
Consequences of Overfishing
By the mid-20th century, the cumulative impact of targeted capture (particularly during reproductive aggregations) was catastrophic. Regulatory and scientific awareness lagged behind declining catches, with many believing the ocean’s productivity inexhaustible. But the signs of crisis were mounting: average fish size decreased, previously reliable fishing grounds began yielding fewer individuals, and community elders noted the disappearance of the sea bass from their traditional haunts.
Morphology: Giants of the East Pacific
Perhaps the most awe-inspiring aspect of Stereolepis gigas is its unparalleled size among the rocky-reef fishes of the northeastern Pacific. Giant sea bass can reach lengths up to 2.5 meters (over 8 feet) and weights surpassing 320 kg (700 lbs)—a true colossus. Adult giant sea bass are characterized by a robust, elongate body, broad rounded head, and a slightly humped dorsal profile. Their body coloration shifts with age; juveniles display vibrant orange-red patterns with large black spots, while adults develop a dusky, mottled brown to black coloration suited for camouflage among kelp fronds and rocky crevices.
The powerful jaw structure reveals their predatory lifestyle: filled with numerous small, recurved teeth and underpinned by well-developed musculature. Their lateral line is pronounced, optimizing sensitivity to water movements—a crucial adaptation for a top ambush predator. The paired pectoral fins are especially well developed, aiding maneuverability in complex kelp and rocky habitats. Unlike many groupers, the giant sea bass possesses a single, large dorsal fin running most of its length, and its thick slime coating helps prevent infection in the abrasive reef environment.
Table: Key Biological Traits and Lifecycle Stages
This table underscores the critical biological traits that make the giant sea bass both a marvel and a management challenge. For example, the delayed maturity—almost a dozen years to reach sexual readiness—means the species is slow to recover from population declines. Its massive size reduces vulnerability to many predators, yet makes it a prime target for humans. The transition from vibrant juvenile to cryptically colored adult parallels its shift from planktonic, highly mobile young to sedentary, kelp-dwelling giant, and the species’ extended lifespan allows individuals to survive for multiple human generations, provided they can avoid fishing pressure and environmental hazards.
Lifecycle: Growth, Development, and Reproduction
Early Life: From Plankton to Predator
Giant sea bass begin life as tiny, planktonic eggs spawned into open water. After fertilization, these buoyant eggs drift with current, hatching into transparent, minuscule larvae. This early stage, lasting several weeks, is marked by rapid growth and high risk; predation by plankton-feeding fish and invertebrates is intense, and only a tiny fraction of eggs survive to juvenile metamorphosis.
Once transitioned to juvenile form, the young sea bass settle in shallow, sandy habitats or in eelgrass beds, usually inshore from their future kelp forest abodes. Here, their carnivorous instincts are honed on smaller crustaceans, shrimp, and tiny fish. The juveniles' bright coloration—orange body with large, dark spots—likely offers camouflage among the sunlight-speckled shallows, protecting them from voracious predators.
Maturation: Slow Growth and Vulnerability
It takes a remarkable 11 to 13 years for a giant sea bass to reach sexual maturity, by which time the fish has achieved impressive size and, critically, survived the gauntlet of natural and human threats. This extended juvenile period is significant: on one hand, mature sea bass can achieve legendary sizes and outlive most marine threats; on the other, they are exceptionally vulnerable during the long maturation phase—especially from fishing or environmental disturbance.
Spawning and Reproductive Behavior
Annual spawning occurs principally in the summer months (typically June through September), when water temperatures and daylight reach seasonal peaks. Remarkably, giant sea bass are known for forming spawning aggregations, where numerous adults gather—sometimes in the same traditional locations for decades—at specific reefs or kelp beds. These predictable, site-faithful gatherings made them especially vulnerable to overfishing in earlier eras.
During courtship, males and females engage in choreographed swimming behaviors: circling, fin displays, and “nuzzling” movements, accompanied by low-frequency sound production. Spawning itself is a rapid, synchronized rush of the pair toward the surface, releasing clouds of eggs and sperm in an ephemeral ballet. The resulting eggs disperse widely by current, ensuring genetic mixing and broad colonization potential. Field observers note that the aggregation sites often coincide with areas of high food availability and current movement, perhaps enhancing larval dispersal success.
Adult Life and Longevity
Adults are typically solitary or found in small groups, moving between kelp forests, rocky reefs, and adjacent sandy-mud bottoms. The largest individuals may hold territories, displacing or avoiding smaller conspecifics (members of their own species). Given their enormous size and the prevalence of scars or healed injuries, it’s clear adults withstand encounters with potential predators, commercial fishing gear, and environmental insults for years, sometimes decades. Ages exceeding 70 years have been documented through otolith (ear bone) analysis—evidence of lifespans paralleling human generations.
The Ecological Role: Apex Predator in a Dynamic Ecosystem
As one of the Eastern Pacific’s largest bony fish, the giant sea bass is an apex predator uniquely positioned within the food web. Its diet, dominated by fish such as mackerel, croaker, and small bass, but also including crustaceans and large cephalopods, allows it to regulate prey populations and exert top-down control on the reef and kelp forest community. This keystone predation helps stabilize the ecosystem, preventing unchecked prey expansion and indirectly supporting the health of kelp forests.
The species’ feeding technique is classic ambush: leveraging camouflage and immense suction created by opening its cavernous mouth, a giant sea bass can engulf sizable fish or lobsters in a split-second strike. Adult sea bass are also opportunistic, feeding on whatever large, slow-moving prey is available—even sometimes scavenging on carrion. Young fish, meanwhile, eat mainly small crustaceans and planktonic organisms before shifting to larger prey as they grow.
Their presence also shapes the behaviors of other marine life. For example, commercial spiny lobster (Panulirus interruptus) populations exhibit different movement patterns in areas with active sea bass predation, while smaller predatory fishes may alter their hunting grounds to avoid encounters with the giant sea bass. In essence, S. gigas is both participant and moderator in the tapestry of the kelp forest ecosystem, influencing community structure across multiple trophic levels.
Feeding Habits: Carnivores with Wide Appetites
Feeding behavior changes throughout the giant sea bass’ life. Larval and early juvenile bass primarily consume zooplankton, copepods, and small invertebrates, reflecting their vulnerability and small body size. As they mature, their predatory scope broadens; adults become “generalist carnivores,” ingesting a range of prey that includes, but is not limited to:
• Fishes: Mackerel, croaker, anchovy, other sea bass, and occasionally small sharks or rays
• Crustaceans: Lobster, crab, shrimp
• Cephalopods: Squid and octopus
Field studies and stomach content analyses indicate seasonal variability in diet, likely reflecting prey availability and environmental conditions. During spawning aggregations, for example, sea bass may feed more heavily on fish and crustaceans congregating for their own reproductive cycles.
This varied diet serves several ecological purposes. By preying on multiple trophic levels, the giant sea bass buffers local food webs against swings in single species populations. It also means disruptions to prey populations—driven by overfishing, habitat loss, or climate change—can have cascading impacts on the health and behavior of the sea bass itself.
Habitat Preferences and Range: Where Giants Roam
The giant sea bass historically occupied a broad geographical range, extending from Humboldt Bay in northern California, through the coastal waters of Baja California, and occasionally as far south as the Gulf of California. Their primary stronghold, though, has always been the kelp-dominated rocky reefs and adjacent sandy slopes stretching from Point Conception south to northern Mexico.
Preferred Habitats
By day, adults typically inhabit areas with rich kelp cover, rocky outcrops, or deep crevices. These structures offer shelter, hunting opportunities, and a staging ground for seasonal migrations. Juveniles, smaller and more vulnerable, tend to occupy shallower, protected areas such as eelgrass beds, surf zones, and tidepools.
Preferred depths range from 5 to 50 meters, though some individuals have been observed in deeper waters offshore. Thermal tolerance appears broad, but spawning aggregations nearly always occur in areas where water temperatures are relatively stable and currents facilitate egg and larval dispersal.
Shifts in Habitat and Range Over Time
Throughout the 20th century, habitat loss from coastal development, pollution, and especially the degradation of southern California’s kelp forests further compounded the impact of direct fishing. Historical records reveal periods of local extinction as suitable spawning and feeding grounds became inaccessible or uninhabitable—from sediment-laden runoff restricting kelp growth to coastal construction altering traditional aggregation sites.
Recent improvements in water quality and marine protected area (MPA) coverage have yielded localized comebacks of kelp and, in tandem, drawn scattered giant sea bass back to former haunts. Yet, significant portions of their historical range remain underpopulated or devoid of mature individuals—a situation demanding continued vigilance.
Population Trends: From Abundance to Crisis, and Hope on the Horizon
Decline From Historical Abundance
By all accounts, the giant sea bass was once abundant, with commercial and recreational fisheries harvesting thousands of individuals annually until the 1960s. However, by the 1970s and 1980s, local extirpations and drastic population declines became acute across much of southern California. Most accounts attribute this precipitous fall primarily to overfishing, especially the targeting of spawning aggregations, compounded by environmental degradation and reduced kelp cover.
Commercial catches collapsed almost overnight, with California’s official landings dropping from thousands of kilograms per year to just dozens by the late 1980s. Divers, fishers, and local residents began to notice the absence of these behemoths. Sightings grew rare, spawning aggregations disappeared, and the species seemed—by the late 20th century—to be on the verge of regional extinction.
Conservation Listings and Current Status
In response, the giant sea bass was given regulated status. California closed the commercial fishery in 1982, with recreational harvest following suit soon after. Over subsequent decades, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) listed Stereolepis gigas as "Critically Endangered," a designation echoed by regional authorities in Mexico and California. Key factors cited include low overall abundance, fragmented population structure, and vulnerability from slow maturation and aggregation spawning habits.
The latest scientific monitoring and "community science" efforts, such as diver logbooks, underwater visual surveys, and automated camera deployments, provide crucial population data. Encouragingly, these efforts have reported modest increases in sightings and aggregation sizes since the early 2000s, especially in marine protected areas, though overall numbers remain precariously low compared to historical baselines.
Modern Fishery Management and Conservation Measures
Regulatory Actions in California and Beyond
Facing the specter of extinction, state and regional authorities implemented sweeping bans:
1. Commercial and Recreational Closures: Since 1982, giant sea bass are illegal to take, possess, or sell in California waters; similar regulations exist across Baja California.
2. Bycatch Restrictions: Any accidental capture must be immediately released with minimal handling, and all take is closely monitored.
3. Minimum Size/Bag Limits: For conservation and identification purposes, capture of juveniles is prohibited.
4. Marine Protected Areas: The establishment of extensive MPA networks, such as off Santa Barbara, Palos Verdes, and Catalina Island, places many known aggregation and nursery sites off-limits to most fishing activity.
These policies are enforced through a combination of patrols, community reporting, and increasing reliance on technological monitoring (drones, vessel tracking, etc.).
Fisheries Management and Policy Development
Modern management stresses a ‘precautionary principle’, emphasizing protection first and gradual reintroduction of any regulated activities only under strong scientific guidance. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife periodically reviews population data, partners with academic institutions for genetic and tagging studies, and uses stakeholder input during regulatory revisions. Mexico’s authorities, facing similar challenges and less enforcement capacity, are increasingly collaborating with U.S. agencies to coordinate transboundary protections.
Special attention is given to the protection of spawning aggregations. Seasonal, area-based closures and habitat restoration programs address both direct and indirect threats, such as pollution and invasive species, that could undermine recovery.
Notable Research: Behavior, Reproduction, and Sound
Behavior and Communication
• Stereolepis gigas* is notable for its blend of stealth and sociality. Adults, though typically solitary, may congregate in loose groups outside the spawning season, using subtle behavioral cues and low-frequency “drumming” sounds produced by specialized muscles vibrating the swim bladder. This acoustic communication, essential for locating potential mates and coordinating group movements, is a focus of current bioacoustics research.
Juvenile giant sea bass show distinct daily activity patterns, sheltering in dense eelgrass or nearshore rocks by day and emerging to feed under low light or at night—a behavior that may minimize predation risk while maximizing access to prey.
Spawning Biology: Field Observations
Recent underwater investigations have richly described the species’ courtship and spawning rituals. Males often establish territories in advance of females, performing displays ranging from color changes to fin erection and close-follow swimming. Successful pairs then engage in a rapid vertical swim, coordinated egg-and-sperm release, and a return to the seafloor. Typically, a single aggregation event may witness dozens of such pairings over several days, with environmental cues such as water temperature, lunar phase, and tide levels believed to trigger heightened aggregation activity.
Intriguingly, some courtship gatherings include a higher number of “satellite” or non-paired males and juvenile fish, suggesting a social structure more complex than previously understood. These observations, taken together, highlight the delicate balance between reproductive success and vulnerability to disturbance.
Interactions with Other Marine Life
The giant sea bass occupies a pivotal place in the kelp forest community. Its presence shapes both predator-prey interactions and interspecies competition. As adults, their sheer size excludes most predation, though large sharks (including white sharks) may occasionally target them. More commonly, adults interact with mid-sized predatory fishes—such as kelp bass, California sheephead, and Pacific barracuda—by outcompeting them for territory or prey, especially during periods of aggregation.
Juveniles, by contrast, are vulnerable to a bevy of local predators including larger bass, sharks, and marine mammals (such as sea lions). Their preference for eelgrass and surf zones during this fragile stage is thought to enhance survival through camouflage and proximity to shallow, predator-excluding environments.
Interactions with non-fish taxa are also commonplace. Field surveys document that aggregations of S. gigas prompt changes in the movement and behavior of invertebrate prey, notably reducing surface activity of spiny lobster and large crabs. Marine birds and sea mammals, too, will often follow sea bass aggregations to exploit injured or leftover prey.
Habitat Restoration and Community Science: Conservation in Action
Case Studies: Southern California Recovery Efforts
Efforts to restore both sea bass numbers and critical habitat are ongoing, with a focus on collaborative science and active management. Notable projects include:
• Tagging and Tracking Campaigns: Scientists implant acoustic or external tags in individuals to follow daily and seasonal movements, spawning behaviors, and habitat use. These data help identify critical residence areas and migration corridors.
• Larval and Nursery Habitat Restoration: Restoration projects targeting eelgrass beds, key for juvenile survival, are underway in areas such as Santa Monica Bay and near La Jolla, seeking to recreate or enhance nursery conditions.
• Artificial Reef Construction: In places where natural habitat has been lost, agencies and NGOs build artificial reefs using boulders, concrete modules, and repurposed materials to provide shelter and spawning substrate.
• Community Science: Recreational divers and anglers participate in photographic censuses and report sightings through databases such as the Spotting Giant Sea Bass website or via mobile apps. These data supplement scientific surveys and increase public stewardship.
Highlight: Emerging Population Growth
Encouragingly, recent analyses combining scientific diver surveys and community reports show tangible—albeit localized—population increases along the Southern California coast, notably within established marine reserves. Aggregations, while nowhere near historic peaks, are returning to sites long absent of such giants, raising hopes of a gradual comeback. Some tagged individuals have survived well over a decade, and the presence of juveniles in restored eelgrass beds suggests that full lifecycle recovery is within reach.
However, challenges persist, especially in the context of climate change. Marine heatwaves and shifting ocean currents threaten key habitats, and warming may disrupt traditional spawning or larval transport. Pollution and habitat fragmentation continue to pose risks, underscoring the need for integrated, adaptive management.
Looking Forward: Lessons, Caution, and Hope
The giant sea bass stands as both warning and inspiration. Its near-eradication from the Eastern Pacific is a stark lesson in the cost of unmanaged exploitation—the interplay between human ambition and ecological limits. At the same time, the species’ resilience and the ongoing efforts to restore its numbers reflect the power of science, community engagement, and policy to reverse declines (if not yet restore abundance).
Key factors for future success include:
• Long-term Monitoring: Continued tracking of population size, structure, and genetic diversity is essential for catching signs of recovery or renewed stress.
• Habitat Protection: Investment in kelp forest and eelgrass restoration, coupled with effective pollution control, will buttress recovery.
• Transboundary Coordination: Given the species' range crosses international boundaries, U.S.-Mexico partnerships will be critical.
• Education and Public Engagement: Involving divers, anglers, and local residents turns potential harvesters into stewards.
Ultimately, the story of the giant sea bass is a microcosm of ocean conservation: a reminder that the fates of the largest creatures are often inseparable from the smallest actions, and that recovery—while slow and never guaranteed—is possible when science and stewardship work hand in hand.
A Fish of Legend: Historical Significance
Long before the era of modern fisheries management, the giant sea bass was an icon of coastal California. Its presence in regional folklore stretches back to the indigenous Tongva, Chumash, and other communities, who respected the animal as both a food source and a symbol of the productive kelp forest ecosystem. Early European settlers quickly learned of the species—whose individuals, sometimes weighing over 500 lbs (227 kg), would become the trophies of legends.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, S. gigas had cemented a near-mythic reputation among sport and commercial fishers from Santa Barbara south to Baja California. Historical records from newspaper reports, personal diaries, and fishing logs describe dockside celebrations whenever one of these giants was landed, with some individual fish requiring multiple men to haul from the surf. The fish were so populous and accessible in shallow waters that they became a staple for both subsistence and burgeoning commercial operations.
The appeal was not simply for sustenance or profit: the sight of a massive sea bass gliding through kelp forests symbolized the region’s ecological bounty. Images of giant sea bass graced seafood restaurant menus, sporting magazines, and even post-war tourist brochures, feeding an ever-growing human fascination. However, this relationship also set the stage for dramatic change—especially as intensive fishery practices accelerated through the 20th century.
Traditional Fishery Practices: From Subsistence to Exploitation
Indigenous Approaches and Early Gears
In pre-industrial times, indigenous peoples utilized sustainable techniques such as handlines, nets, and simple weirs crafted from branches, bone, and stone. Their selective, seasonal fishing practices—often using gear that allowed for bycatch release—imposed minimal impact on local sea bass populations up to the arrival of European settlers. Oral traditions suggest that giant sea bass were taken occasionally, often during seasonal movements near shore, and the catch was shared among communities.
Evolution of Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
As the 19th century closed, the expansion of commercial fisheries fundamentally altered the species’ trajectory. European and American fishers deployed larger gillnets, setlines, and—by the early 1900s—steam-powered fishing vessels. The giant sea bass, slow to mature and predictably aggregating during spawning seasons, proved highly vulnerable to these new techniques. Historical catch records from Southern California indicate rapidly escalating removal, with hundreds of tons landed each year in the 1920s and 1930s. The smooth operation of these fisheries was further facilitated by the improved cold storage and transport infrastructure, allowing catches to supply both local and distant markets.
Recreational fishers soon joined in, seeking not only food but also prestige. Trophy pictures and fishing contest records from the era capture immense individuals, some exceeding 7 feet (2.1 m) in length. Techniques such as hand jigging and deep-sea trolling became popular along the Santa Monica Bay, Catalina Island, and around rocky reefs extending south toward Mexico.
Consequences of Overfishing
By the mid-20th century, the cumulative impact of targeted capture (particularly during reproductive aggregations) was catastrophic. Regulatory and scientific awareness lagged behind declining catches, with many believing the ocean’s productivity inexhaustible. But the signs of crisis were mounting: average fish size decreased, previously reliable fishing grounds began yielding fewer individuals, and community elders noted the disappearance of the sea bass from their traditional haunts.
Morphology: Giants of the East Pacific
Perhaps the most awe-inspiring aspect of Stereolepis gigas is its unparalleled size among the rocky-reef fishes of the northeastern Pacific. Giant sea bass can reach lengths up to 2.5 meters (over 8 feet) and weights surpassing 320 kg (700 lbs)—a true colossus. Adult giant sea bass are characterized by a robust, elongate body, broad rounded head, and a slightly humped dorsal profile. Their body coloration shifts with age; juveniles display vibrant orange-red patterns with large black spots, while adults develop a dusky, mottled brown to black coloration suited for camouflage among kelp fronds and rocky crevices.
The powerful jaw structure reveals their predatory lifestyle: filled with numerous small, recurved teeth and underpinned by well-developed musculature. Their lateral line is pronounced, optimizing sensitivity to water movements—a crucial adaptation for a top ambush predator. The paired pectoral fins are especially well developed, aiding maneuverability in complex kelp and rocky habitats. Unlike many groupers, the giant sea bass possesses a single, large dorsal fin running most of its length, and its thick slime coating helps prevent infection in the abrasive reef environment.
Table: Key Biological Traits and Lifecycle Stages
This table underscores the critical biological traits that make the giant sea bass both a marvel and a management challenge. For example, the delayed maturity—almost a dozen years to reach sexual readiness—means the species is slow to recover from population declines. Its massive size reduces vulnerability to many predators, yet makes it a prime target for humans. The transition from vibrant juvenile to cryptically colored adult parallels its shift from planktonic, highly mobile young to sedentary, kelp-dwelling giant, and the species’ extended lifespan allows individuals to survive for multiple human generations, provided they can avoid fishing pressure and environmental hazards.
Lifecycle: Growth, Development, and Reproduction
Early Life: From Plankton to Predator
Giant sea bass begin life as tiny, planktonic eggs spawned into open water. After fertilization, these buoyant eggs drift with current, hatching into transparent, minuscule larvae. This early stage, lasting several weeks, is marked by rapid growth and high risk; predation by plankton-feeding fish and invertebrates is intense, and only a tiny fraction of eggs survive to juvenile metamorphosis.
Once transitioned to juvenile form, the young sea bass settle in shallow, sandy habitats or in eelgrass beds, usually inshore from their future kelp forest abodes. Here, their carnivorous instincts are honed on smaller crustaceans, shrimp, and tiny fish. The juveniles' bright coloration—orange body with large, dark spots—likely offers camouflage among the sunlight-speckled shallows, protecting them from voracious predators.
Maturation: Slow Growth and Vulnerability
It takes a remarkable 11 to 13 years for a giant sea bass to reach sexual maturity, by which time the fish has achieved impressive size and, critically, survived the gauntlet of natural and human threats. This extended juvenile period is significant: on one hand, mature sea bass can achieve legendary sizes and outlive most marine threats; on the other, they are exceptionally vulnerable during the long maturation phase—especially from fishing or environmental disturbance.
Spawning and Reproductive Behavior
Annual spawning occurs principally in the summer months (typically June through September), when water temperatures and daylight reach seasonal peaks. Remarkably, giant sea bass are known for forming spawning aggregations, where numerous adults gather—sometimes in the same traditional locations for decades—at specific reefs or kelp beds. These predictable, site-faithful gatherings made them especially vulnerable to overfishing in earlier eras.
During courtship, males and females engage in choreographed swimming behaviors: circling, fin displays, and “nuzzling” movements, accompanied by low-frequency sound production. Spawning itself is a rapid, synchronized rush of the pair toward the surface, releasing clouds of eggs and sperm in an ephemeral ballet. The resulting eggs disperse widely by current, ensuring genetic mixing and broad colonization potential. Field observers note that the aggregation sites often coincide with areas of high food availability and current movement, perhaps enhancing larval dispersal success.
Adult Life and Longevity
Adults are typically solitary or found in small groups, moving between kelp forests, rocky reefs, and adjacent sandy-mud bottoms. The largest individuals may hold territories, displacing or avoiding smaller conspecifics (members of their own species). Given their enormous size and the prevalence of scars or healed injuries, it’s clear adults withstand encounters with potential predators, commercial fishing gear, and environmental insults for years, sometimes decades. Ages exceeding 70 years have been documented through otolith (ear bone) analysis—evidence of lifespans paralleling human generations.
The Ecological Role: Apex Predator in a Dynamic Ecosystem
As one of the Eastern Pacific’s largest bony fish, the giant sea bass is an apex predator uniquely positioned within the food web. Its diet, dominated by fish such as mackerel, croaker, and small bass, but also including crustaceans and large cephalopods, allows it to regulate prey populations and exert top-down control on the reef and kelp forest community. This keystone predation helps stabilize the ecosystem, preventing unchecked prey expansion and indirectly supporting the health of kelp forests.
The species’ feeding technique is classic ambush: leveraging camouflage and immense suction created by opening its cavernous mouth, a giant sea bass can engulf sizable fish or lobsters in a split-second strike. Adult sea bass are also opportunistic, feeding on whatever large, slow-moving prey is available—even sometimes scavenging on carrion. Young fish, meanwhile, eat mainly small crustaceans and planktonic organisms before shifting to larger prey as they grow.
Their presence also shapes the behaviors of other marine life. For example, commercial spiny lobster (Panulirus interruptus) populations exhibit different movement patterns in areas with active sea bass predation, while smaller predatory fishes may alter their hunting grounds to avoid encounters with the giant sea bass. In essence, S. gigas is both participant and moderator in the tapestry of the kelp forest ecosystem, influencing community structure across multiple trophic levels.
Feeding Habits: Carnivores with Wide Appetites
Feeding behavior changes throughout the giant sea bass’ life. Larval and early juvenile bass primarily consume zooplankton, copepods, and small invertebrates, reflecting their vulnerability and small body size. As they mature, their predatory scope broadens; adults become “generalist carnivores,” ingesting a range of prey that includes, but is not limited to:
• Fishes: Mackerel, croaker, anchovy, other sea bass, and occasionally small sharks or rays
• Crustaceans: Lobster, crab, shrimp
• Cephalopods: Squid and octopus
Field studies and stomach content analyses indicate seasonal variability in diet, likely reflecting prey availability and environmental conditions. During spawning aggregations, for example, sea bass may feed more heavily on fish and crustaceans congregating for their own reproductive cycles.
This varied diet serves several ecological purposes. By preying on multiple trophic levels, the giant sea bass buffers local food webs against swings in single species populations. It also means disruptions to prey populations—driven by overfishing, habitat loss, or climate change—can have cascading impacts on the health and behavior of the sea bass itself.
Habitat Preferences and Range: Where Giants Roam
The giant sea bass historically occupied a broad geographical range, extending from Humboldt Bay in northern California, through the coastal waters of Baja California, and occasionally as far south as the Gulf of California. Their primary stronghold, though, has always been the kelp-dominated rocky reefs and adjacent sandy slopes stretching from Point Conception south to northern Mexico.
Preferred Habitats
By day, adults typically inhabit areas with rich kelp cover, rocky outcrops, or deep crevices. These structures offer shelter, hunting opportunities, and a staging ground for seasonal migrations. Juveniles, smaller and more vulnerable, tend to occupy shallower, protected areas such as eelgrass beds, surf zones, and tidepools.
Preferred depths range from 5 to 50 meters, though some individuals have been observed in deeper waters offshore. Thermal tolerance appears broad, but spawning aggregations nearly always occur in areas where water temperatures are relatively stable and currents facilitate egg and larval dispersal.
Shifts in Habitat and Range Over Time
Throughout the 20th century, habitat loss from coastal development, pollution, and especially the degradation of southern California’s kelp forests further compounded the impact of direct fishing. Historical records reveal periods of local extinction as suitable spawning and feeding grounds became inaccessible or uninhabitable—from sediment-laden runoff restricting kelp growth to coastal construction altering traditional aggregation sites.
Recent improvements in water quality and marine protected area (MPA) coverage have yielded localized comebacks of kelp and, in tandem, drawn scattered giant sea bass back to former haunts. Yet, significant portions of their historical range remain underpopulated or devoid of mature individuals—a situation demanding continued vigilance.
Population Trends: From Abundance to Crisis, and Hope on the Horizon
Decline From Historical Abundance
By all accounts, the giant sea bass was once abundant, with commercial and recreational fisheries harvesting thousands of individuals annually until the 1960s. However, by the 1970s and 1980s, local extirpations and drastic population declines became acute across much of southern California. Most accounts attribute this precipitous fall primarily to overfishing, especially the targeting of spawning aggregations, compounded by environmental degradation and reduced kelp cover.
Commercial catches collapsed almost overnight, with California’s official landings dropping from thousands of kilograms per year to just dozens by the late 1980s. Divers, fishers, and local residents began to notice the absence of these behemoths. Sightings grew rare, spawning aggregations disappeared, and the species seemed—by the late 20th century—to be on the verge of regional extinction.
Conservation Listings and Current Status
In response, the giant sea bass was given regulated status. California closed the commercial fishery in 1982, with recreational harvest following suit soon after. Over subsequent decades, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) listed Stereolepis gigas as "Critically Endangered," a designation echoed by regional authorities in Mexico and California. Key factors cited include low overall abundance, fragmented population structure, and vulnerability from slow maturation and aggregation spawning habits.
The latest scientific monitoring and "community science" efforts, such as diver logbooks, underwater visual surveys, and automated camera deployments, provide crucial population data. Encouragingly, these efforts have reported modest increases in sightings and aggregation sizes since the early 2000s, especially in marine protected areas, though overall numbers remain precariously low compared to historical baselines.
Modern Fishery Management and Conservation Measures
Regulatory Actions in California and Beyond
Facing the specter of extinction, state and regional authorities implemented sweeping bans:
1. Commercial and Recreational Closures: Since 1982, giant sea bass are illegal to take, possess, or sell in California waters; similar regulations exist across Baja California.
2. Bycatch Restrictions: Any accidental capture must be immediately released with minimal handling, and all take is closely monitored.
3. Minimum Size/Bag Limits: For conservation and identification purposes, capture of juveniles is prohibited.
4. Marine Protected Areas: The establishment of extensive MPA networks, such as off Santa Barbara, Palos Verdes, and Catalina Island, places many known aggregation and nursery sites off-limits to most fishing activity.
These policies are enforced through a combination of patrols, community reporting, and increasing reliance on technological monitoring (drones, vessel tracking, etc.).
Fisheries Management and Policy Development
Modern management stresses a ‘precautionary principle’, emphasizing protection first and gradual reintroduction of any regulated activities only under strong scientific guidance. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife periodically reviews population data, partners with academic institutions for genetic and tagging studies, and uses stakeholder input during regulatory revisions. Mexico’s authorities, facing similar challenges and less enforcement capacity, are increasingly collaborating with U.S. agencies to coordinate transboundary protections.
Special attention is given to the protection of spawning aggregations. Seasonal, area-based closures and habitat restoration programs address both direct and indirect threats, such as pollution and invasive species, that could undermine recovery.
Notable Research: Behavior, Reproduction, and Sound
Behavior and Communication
• Stereolepis gigas* is notable for its blend of stealth and sociality. Adults, though typically solitary, may congregate in loose groups outside the spawning season, using subtle behavioral cues and low-frequency “drumming” sounds produced by specialized muscles vibrating the swim bladder. This acoustic communication, essential for locating potential mates and coordinating group movements, is a focus of current bioacoustics research.
Juvenile giant sea bass show distinct daily activity patterns, sheltering in dense eelgrass or nearshore rocks by day and emerging to feed under low light or at night—a behavior that may minimize predation risk while maximizing access to prey.
Spawning Biology: Field Observations
Recent underwater investigations have richly described the species’ courtship and spawning rituals. Males often establish territories in advance of females, performing displays ranging from color changes to fin erection and close-follow swimming. Successful pairs then engage in a rapid vertical swim, coordinated egg-and-sperm release, and a return to the seafloor. Typically, a single aggregation event may witness dozens of such pairings over several days, with environmental cues such as water temperature, lunar phase, and tide levels believed to trigger heightened aggregation activity.
Intriguingly, some courtship gatherings include a higher number of “satellite” or non-paired males and juvenile fish, suggesting a social structure more complex than previously understood. These observations, taken together, highlight the delicate balance between reproductive success and vulnerability to disturbance.
Interactions with Other Marine Life
The giant sea bass occupies a pivotal place in the kelp forest community. Its presence shapes both predator-prey interactions and interspecies competition. As adults, their sheer size excludes most predation, though large sharks (including white sharks) may occasionally target them. More commonly, adults interact with mid-sized predatory fishes—such as kelp bass, California sheephead, and Pacific barracuda—by outcompeting them for territory or prey, especially during periods of aggregation.
Juveniles, by contrast, are vulnerable to a bevy of local predators including larger bass, sharks, and marine mammals (such as sea lions). Their preference for eelgrass and surf zones during this fragile stage is thought to enhance survival through camouflage and proximity to shallow, predator-excluding environments.
Interactions with non-fish taxa are also commonplace. Field surveys document that aggregations of S. gigas prompt changes in the movement and behavior of invertebrate prey, notably reducing surface activity of spiny lobster and large crabs. Marine birds and sea mammals, too, will often follow sea bass aggregations to exploit injured or leftover prey.
Habitat Restoration and Community Science: Conservation in Action
Case Studies: Southern California Recovery Efforts
Efforts to restore both sea bass numbers and critical habitat are ongoing, with a focus on collaborative science and active management. Notable projects include:
• Tagging and Tracking Campaigns: Scientists implant acoustic or external tags in individuals to follow daily and seasonal movements, spawning behaviors, and habitat use. These data help identify critical residence areas and migration corridors.
• Larval and Nursery Habitat Restoration: Restoration projects targeting eelgrass beds, key for juvenile survival, are underway in areas such as Santa Monica Bay and near La Jolla, seeking to recreate or enhance nursery conditions.
• Artificial Reef Construction: In places where natural habitat has been lost, agencies and NGOs build artificial reefs using boulders, concrete modules, and repurposed materials to provide shelter and spawning substrate.
• Community Science: Recreational divers and anglers participate in photographic censuses and report sightings through databases such as the Spotting Giant Sea Bass website or via mobile apps. These data supplement scientific surveys and increase public stewardship.
Highlight: Emerging Population Growth
Encouragingly, recent analyses combining scientific diver surveys and community reports show tangible—albeit localized—population increases along the Southern California coast, notably within established marine reserves. Aggregations, while nowhere near historic peaks, are returning to sites long absent of such giants, raising hopes of a gradual comeback. Some tagged individuals have survived well over a decade, and the presence of juveniles in restored eelgrass beds suggests that full lifecycle recovery is within reach.
However, challenges persist, especially in the context of climate change. Marine heatwaves and shifting ocean currents threaten key habitats, and warming may disrupt traditional spawning or larval transport. Pollution and habitat fragmentation continue to pose risks, underscoring the need for integrated, adaptive management.
Looking Forward: Lessons, Caution, and Hope
The giant sea bass stands as both warning and inspiration. Its near-eradication from the Eastern Pacific is a stark lesson in the cost of unmanaged exploitation—the interplay between human ambition and ecological limits. At the same time, the species’ resilience and the ongoing efforts to restore its numbers reflect the power of science, community engagement, and policy to reverse declines (if not yet restore abundance).
Key factors for future success include:
• Long-term Monitoring: Continued tracking of population size, structure, and genetic diversity is essential for catching signs of recovery or renewed stress.
• Habitat Protection: Investment in kelp forest and eelgrass restoration, coupled with effective pollution control, will buttress recovery.
• Transboundary Coordination: Given the species' range crosses international boundaries, U.S.-Mexico partnerships will be critical.
• Education and Public Engagement: Involving divers, anglers, and local residents turns potential harvesters into stewards.
Ultimately, the story of the giant sea bass is a microcosm of ocean conservation: a reminder that the fates of the largest creatures are often inseparable from the smallest actions, and that recovery—while slow and never guaranteed—is possible when science and stewardship work hand in hand.
When Fishing Podcast
Season 2 starts today
Culinary Delight: The Best Way to Cook Pacific Rockfish
Pacific rockfish, known for its delicate texture and mild, sweet flavor, is a versatile fish that can be prepared in various delicious ways. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this guide will help you create a mouthwatering rockfish dish that's sure to impress your guests.
The Best Way to Cook Pacific Rockfish: Pan-Seared with Lemon Butter SauceIngredients:
- 4 Pacific rockfish fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Steps:
Prepare the Fish:
- Pat the rockfish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat the Pan:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the fish to prevent sticking.
Sear the Rockfish:
- Carefully place the seasoned rockfish fillets in the hot skillet. Sear the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside.
Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and simmer for a minute to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Return the seared rockfish fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top to coat them evenly.
Serve:
- Transfer the rockfish fillets to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top.
Tips for the Perfect Rockfish Dish:
- Freshness Matters: Take care of your catch from the cooler to the table, high-quality rockfish for the best flavor and texture.
- Side Dishes: Complement the dish with sides like roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a light salad.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with pan-seared rockfish.
Cooking Pacific rockfish is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of the ocean to your table. This pan-seared rockfish with lemon butter sauce is an elegant and simple way to enjoy this versatile fish, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
Enjoy your culinary adventure, and bon appétit!
Avet JX 4.6 Inspection
Member and moderator, Jeremy, made a video while replacing the gears in an old Avet JX. Not exactly an organized full-service tutorial but there's some value from looking into the side plate assembly, inspecting the gears/bearings, and addressing a couple noises. Pardon his barrage of casual swearing, but working on reels will sometimes do that to you.
California Sharks
Here is a comprehensive list of shark species typically found off the coast of California, along with their usual habitats and food sources:
1. Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias)
- Habitat: Found in coastal waters, especially around seal rookeries, kelp forests, and continental shelves. They are seen frequently around the Farallon Islands, off the coast of San Francisco.
- Food Sources: Predominantly marine mammals such as seals and sea lions, but also fish and seabirds. Juveniles feed on smaller fish like rays.
2. Leopard Shark (Triakis semifasciata)
- Habitat: Prefers shallow coastal waters, bays, estuaries, and muddy bottoms. Common in San Francisco Bay and along southern California beaches.
- Food Sources: Eats small fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and worms. Commonly feeds on benthic (bottom-dwelling) organisms.
3. Horn Shark (Heterodontus francisci)
- Habitat: Found near rocky reefs, kelp forests, and sandy bottoms at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to 150 feet. Common off southern California.
- Food Sources: Eats sea urchins, crabs, mollusks, and small fish. They are slow-moving and rely on their crushing teeth to break hard-shelled prey.
4. Blue Shark (Prionace glauca)
- Habitat: Open ocean (pelagic), often found far offshore in cooler waters. They occasionally approach coastal areas.
- Food Sources: Predominantly eat squid, but also consume small fish, other sharks, and seabirds. Opportunistic feeders.
5. Shortfin Mako Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus)
- Habitat: Typically found in offshore waters, but can come closer to shore, especially around deep canyons.
- Food Sources: Feeds on a variety of fish species, including tuna, swordfish, and other sharks. Also known to eat squid and marine mammals.
6. Common Thresher Shark (Alopias vulpinus)
- Habitat: Prefers open ocean (pelagic) but comes close to shore, especially around deep canyons and continental shelves.
- Food Sources: Uses its long tail to stun schools of fish, feeding on species like mackerel and anchovies. They also eat squid and other small fish.
7. Soupfin Shark (Galeorhinus galeus)
- Habitat: Commonly found in coastal waters, bays, and continental shelves, from surface waters to depths of 200 meters.
- Food Sources: Feeds on squid, octopus, small fish, and crustaceans.
8. Pacific Angel Shark (Squatina californica)
- Habitat: Found on sandy bottoms, often buried under the sand in shallow coastal waters, kelp forests, and near rocky reefs.
- Food Sources: Ambush predators that eat bony fish, rays, and squid. They lie in wait for prey to swim by.
9. Smooth Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna zygaena)
- Habitat: Found in coastal waters, often near estuaries and continental shelves, but can also be found offshore.
- Food Sources: Feeds on fish, rays, cephalopods, and smaller sharks. Known to hunt in schools and use their broad heads to pin down prey.
10. Bluntnose Sixgill Shark (Hexanchus griseus)
- Habitat: Found in deep waters, especially in canyons and abyssal plains at depths that can extend from 0–2,500 m (0–8,202 ft).
- Food Sources: Feeds on fish, rays, smaller sharks, and marine mammals. Mostly attracted to dead whale falls.
11. Spiny Dogfish (Squalus acanthias)
- Habitat: Common in both coastal and offshore waters, found from shallow bays to depths of over 900 meters.
- Food Sources: Eats a variety of prey, including small fish, squid, jellyfish, and crustaceans. They are opportunistic feeders.
12. Brown Smoothhound Shark (Mustelus henlei)
- Habitat: Found in shallow coastal waters, bays, estuaries, and near sandy bottoms.
- Food Sources: Feeds primarily on crustaceans, small fish, and mollusks. Prefers prey like crabs and shrimp.
13. Broadnose Sevengill Shark (Notorynchus cepedianus)
- Habitat: Found in coastal waters and deeper bays, often near the ocean floor, reefs, and kelp forests.
- Food Sources: Known to feed on a variety of prey including other sharks, rays, marine mammals, and fish.
14. Gray Smoothhound Shark (Mustelus californicus)
- Habitat: Shallow coastal waters, particularly around sandy and muddy bottoms, as well as bays and estuaries.
- Food Sources: Predominantly feeds on crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp, but also eats small fish and mollusks.
15. Sand Tiger Shark (Carcharias taurus)
- Habitat: Prefers shallow waters near the bottom of continental shelves, rocky reefs, and nearshore wrecks. Found in depths ranging from 20 to 200 meters.
- Food Sources: Primarily feeds on bony fish, rays, and small sharks.
16. Swell Shark (Cephaloscyllium ventriosum)
- Habitat: Found in rocky reefs, kelp forests, and sandy bottoms, from shallow waters to depths of about 500 feet.
- Food Sources: Feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Known to inflate its body when threatened to deter predators.
17. Bigeye Thresher Shark (Alopias superciliosus)
- Habitat: Found in deeper offshore waters, often at depths between 100 and 500 meters.
- Food Sources: Like other thresher sharks, it uses its long tail to stun schools of fish, primarily feeding on squid and small fish.
18. Galapagos Shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis)
- Habitat: Prefers deep offshore waters but is occasionally seen near islands and in shallow waters near reefs.
- Food Sources: Feeds on bony fish, squid, and smaller sharks.
General Notes:
- Habitat Variation: Most sharks along the California coast inhabit specific depth ranges, with many species living either in shallow coastal waters, kelp forests, or deep offshore zones.
- Diet: The majority of these sharks feed on fish and invertebrates, though larger species like the great white and sevengill sharks also prey on marine mammals. Many species are opportunistic feeders, adjusting their diet based on availability.
This list includes the most common sharks encountered off California, but the waters may also occasionally host other less frequent species due to migration or shifting water temperatures.
Great White
Leopard Shark
Horn Shark
Blue Shark
Shortfin Mako
Common Thresher
Soupfin (Tope) Shark
Pacific Angel Shark
Bluntnose Sixgill Shark
Spiny Dogfish
Brown Smoothhound
Broadnose Sevengill Shark
Gray Smoothhound
Sand Tiger Shark
Swell Shark
Bigeye Thresher
Galapagos Shark
Seasonal Migration of Thresher Sharks in Southern California: An In-Depth Look
by Latimeria
The thresher shark (Alopias vulpinus), known for its distinctively long, whip-like tail, is a majestic predator found in both temperate and tropical oceans. Southern California, with its dynamic coastal ecosystems, serves as an important region in the life cycle of thresher sharks, particularly due to its seasonal migration patterns. Understanding these movements is crucial for conservation efforts and for fostering a balanced marine ecosystem.
Thresher sharks belong to the family Alopiidae, and their most striking feature is their elongated caudal fin, which can make up nearly half of their body length. They are skilled hunters, using this long tail to stun prey such as schooling fish (like sardines and anchovies) with swift, whip-like motions.
Reaching lengths of up to 20 feet, threshers are typically solitary creatures, though they occasionally gather in small groups during feeding or mating seasons. Despite their size and predatory prowess, thresher sharks are not aggressive toward humans and generally avoid contact.
In the waters off Southern California, thresher sharks exhibit clear seasonal migration patterns influenced primarily by water temperature, prey availability, and reproductive cycles. Their migration can be observed mainly between spring and fall, with a strong presence from April through October. During these warmer months, the sharks are often seen along the coastal waters from San Diego to the Channel Islands.
Spring Arrival
As ocean temperatures begin to rise in the spring, adult and juvenile thresher sharks start to move from deeper offshore waters to nearshore regions along Southern California's coast. These sharks are particularly drawn to areas where upwelling currents bring nutrient-rich cold water to the surface, supporting large schools of baitfish that form their primary food source.
The arrival of thresher sharks in the spring is also closely tied to their reproductive cycle. Southern California serves as a critical pupping ground, where pregnant females give birth to live pups. This makes the region essential for the survival of the species, as the shallow coastal waters provide a relatively safe environment for the young sharks to grow before they move into deeper waters.
Summer Feeding Frenzy
The summer months, when water temperatures peak, coincide with a feeding frenzy for thresher sharks. The abundance of baitfish, such as sardines, mackerel, and anchovies, supports the large concentrations of these sharks close to shore. Threshers often hunt near the surface, where their aerial breaches — a behavior where they leap out of the water, often in pursuit of prey — are a spectacular sight for divers and anglers alike.
The coastal waters of Southern California are also rich in kelp forests, which provide additional habitat for smaller prey species. Thresher sharks can sometimes be seen patrolling the edges of these forests, hunting for juvenile fish or squid, which also thrive in these nutrient-rich environments.
Fall Departure
As autumn approaches and water temperatures begin to cool, thresher sharks gradually migrate back to deeper offshore waters. The departure coincides with the decline in prey abundance along the coast, as many baitfish species move to different areas or dive deeper to follow their own migration routes. By the end of October, most of the thresher shark population has vacated Southern California's coastal waters, heading toward warmer regions or deeper ocean layers to spend the winter.
Water Temperature: Thresher sharks are sensitive to water temperature and prefer ranges between 58°F to 75°F (14°C to 24°C). They typically follow the thermocline, a layer where the water temperature changes rapidly with depth, as they move between offshore and coastal habitats.
Upwelling and Nutrient Availability: Southern California experiences seasonal upwelling, where cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, creating fertile feeding grounds. This draws schools of baitfish and, in turn, attracts thresher sharks during the spring and summer months.
Reproductive Cycles: Thresher sharks are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young, and Southern California is an important pupping ground. Females return to these shallow coastal waters each year to give birth, making the region vital for the species' reproductive success.
Prey Movement: The sharks' migration is also closely tied to the movement of their prey. As baitfish populations shift in response to ocean currents and temperature changes, thresher sharks follow, ensuring a consistent food source throughout the year.
The predictable presence of thresher sharks in Southern California during the warmer months has made them a popular target for recreational and commercial fishermen. While not currently classified as endangered, thresher sharks are vulnerable to overfishing, particularly because they mature slowly and have low reproductive rates.
California has implemented several regulations to protect thresher sharks, including size limits and gear restrictions for recreational and commercial fishing. Furthermore, increased awareness about shark conservation has led to the development of catch-and-release programs aimed at minimizing the impact on shark populations while still supporting the region’s vibrant sportfishing industry.
Marine protected areas (MPAs) along the Southern California coast, such as the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, also play a crucial role in conserving thresher sharks and their habitat. These MPAs offer safe havens where sharks can feed and reproduce with minimal human interference, helping to maintain healthy populations.
The seasonal migration of thresher sharks in Southern California highlights the intricate connections between marine species and their environment. Understanding these movements is key to ensuring the survival of these awe-inspiring predators. Through careful management, conservation efforts, and public awareness, Southern California can continue to serve as a vital sanctuary for thresher sharks, maintaining the balance of its rich and diverse marine ecosystem for generations to come.
The thresher shark (Alopias vulpinus), known for its distinctively long, whip-like tail, is a majestic predator found in both temperate and tropical oceans. Southern California, with its dynamic coastal ecosystems, serves as an important region in the life cycle of thresher sharks, particularly due to its seasonal migration patterns. Understanding these movements is crucial for conservation efforts and for fostering a balanced marine ecosystem.
Overview of Thresher Sharks
Thresher sharks belong to the family Alopiidae, and their most striking feature is their elongated caudal fin, which can make up nearly half of their body length. They are skilled hunters, using this long tail to stun prey such as schooling fish (like sardines and anchovies) with swift, whip-like motions.
Reaching lengths of up to 20 feet, threshers are typically solitary creatures, though they occasionally gather in small groups during feeding or mating seasons. Despite their size and predatory prowess, thresher sharks are not aggressive toward humans and generally avoid contact.
Seasonal Migration Patterns
In the waters off Southern California, thresher sharks exhibit clear seasonal migration patterns influenced primarily by water temperature, prey availability, and reproductive cycles. Their migration can be observed mainly between spring and fall, with a strong presence from April through October. During these warmer months, the sharks are often seen along the coastal waters from San Diego to the Channel Islands.
Spring Arrival
As ocean temperatures begin to rise in the spring, adult and juvenile thresher sharks start to move from deeper offshore waters to nearshore regions along Southern California's coast. These sharks are particularly drawn to areas where upwelling currents bring nutrient-rich cold water to the surface, supporting large schools of baitfish that form their primary food source.
The arrival of thresher sharks in the spring is also closely tied to their reproductive cycle. Southern California serves as a critical pupping ground, where pregnant females give birth to live pups. This makes the region essential for the survival of the species, as the shallow coastal waters provide a relatively safe environment for the young sharks to grow before they move into deeper waters.
Summer Feeding Frenzy
The summer months, when water temperatures peak, coincide with a feeding frenzy for thresher sharks. The abundance of baitfish, such as sardines, mackerel, and anchovies, supports the large concentrations of these sharks close to shore. Threshers often hunt near the surface, where their aerial breaches — a behavior where they leap out of the water, often in pursuit of prey — are a spectacular sight for divers and anglers alike.
The coastal waters of Southern California are also rich in kelp forests, which provide additional habitat for smaller prey species. Thresher sharks can sometimes be seen patrolling the edges of these forests, hunting for juvenile fish or squid, which also thrive in these nutrient-rich environments.
Fall Departure
As autumn approaches and water temperatures begin to cool, thresher sharks gradually migrate back to deeper offshore waters. The departure coincides with the decline in prey abundance along the coast, as many baitfish species move to different areas or dive deeper to follow their own migration routes. By the end of October, most of the thresher shark population has vacated Southern California's coastal waters, heading toward warmer regions or deeper ocean layers to spend the winter.
Environmental Influences on Migration
Several environmental factors influence the seasonal migration of thresher sharks:Water Temperature: Thresher sharks are sensitive to water temperature and prefer ranges between 58°F to 75°F (14°C to 24°C). They typically follow the thermocline, a layer where the water temperature changes rapidly with depth, as they move between offshore and coastal habitats.
Upwelling and Nutrient Availability: Southern California experiences seasonal upwelling, where cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, creating fertile feeding grounds. This draws schools of baitfish and, in turn, attracts thresher sharks during the spring and summer months.
Reproductive Cycles: Thresher sharks are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young, and Southern California is an important pupping ground. Females return to these shallow coastal waters each year to give birth, making the region vital for the species' reproductive success.
Prey Movement: The sharks' migration is also closely tied to the movement of their prey. As baitfish populations shift in response to ocean currents and temperature changes, thresher sharks follow, ensuring a consistent food source throughout the year.
Human Interaction and Conservation
The predictable presence of thresher sharks in Southern California during the warmer months has made them a popular target for recreational and commercial fishermen. While not currently classified as endangered, thresher sharks are vulnerable to overfishing, particularly because they mature slowly and have low reproductive rates.
California has implemented several regulations to protect thresher sharks, including size limits and gear restrictions for recreational and commercial fishing. Furthermore, increased awareness about shark conservation has led to the development of catch-and-release programs aimed at minimizing the impact on shark populations while still supporting the region’s vibrant sportfishing industry.
Marine protected areas (MPAs) along the Southern California coast, such as the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, also play a crucial role in conserving thresher sharks and their habitat. These MPAs offer safe havens where sharks can feed and reproduce with minimal human interference, helping to maintain healthy populations.
Conclusion
The seasonal migration of thresher sharks in Southern California highlights the intricate connections between marine species and their environment. Understanding these movements is key to ensuring the survival of these awe-inspiring predators. Through careful management, conservation efforts, and public awareness, Southern California can continue to serve as a vital sanctuary for thresher sharks, maintaining the balance of its rich and diverse marine ecosystem for generations to come.
History of Marlin Fishing in Southern California
by Latimeria
Southern California's history of marlin fishing is deeply tied to the region's rich marine ecosystem and its vibrant sportfishing culture. The waters off the Southern California coast, from Santa Barbara to San Diego, have long been home to an abundance of marine life, including the elusive and powerful marlin. While commercial fishing has always played a role in the area, the tradition of marlin sportfishing has its roots in the early 20th century.
One of the early pioneers of SoCal marlin fishing was Zane Grey, the famous American author and avid angler. Grey wrote extensively about marlin fishing in Southern California, blending his passion for the sport with his storytelling. In 1919, he set a world record by catching a 418-pound Pacific blue marlin near Catalina Island. Grey’s enthusiasm helped popularize marlin fishing in the region, drawing other enthusiasts who sought the thrill of catching large game fish.
Catalina Island also became the home of the Tuna Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious fishing clubs in the United States, founded in 1898. By the 1920s and 1930s, the club’s members had set multiple records for marlin and tuna, and Catalina Island gained a reputation as the birthplace of big-game fishing.
The mid-20th century marked the golden age of marlin fishing in Southern California. After World War II, advances in boat technology, tackle, and fishing techniques made it easier for anglers to target marlin. The region saw a boom in sportfishing tourism, and charter boats operating out of ports such as San Pedro, Long Beach, and San Diego began offering specialized marlin fishing trips. Anglers now had better access to deep-sea waters, where marlin were often found migrating during the summer and fall months.
During this period, striped marlin were particularly sought after. Known for their striking blue and silver stripes and their spectacular aerial displays when hooked, they became one of the most prized catches off the Southern California coast. The summer and fall months, particularly August through October, became prime marlin season, as warm water currents brought the fish closer to shore.
Several important tournaments were established during this era, further cementing Southern California's status as a marlin fishing destination. The Avalon Billfish Classic and other marlin tournaments attracted anglers from across the country, competing for trophies, records, and bragging rights. These tournaments showcased the skill and perseverance required to land such a formidable fish, and they helped to elevate marlin fishing into a prestigious sport.
By the 1970s and 1980s, however, marlin populations in Southern California began to face increased pressure from both recreational and commercial fishing. The rapid growth of the sport, combined with a lack of regulations, led to concerns about overfishing. In addition, the rise of commercial longline fishing for marlin and other billfish species in the Pacific Ocean further threatened local populations.
Recognizing the need to protect marlin and other game fish, conservation efforts began to take root. Catch-and-release fishing, which had been promoted by organizations like the Tuna Club since the 1920s, gained widespread acceptance among sportfishing enthusiasts. New regulations limiting the number of marlin that could be caught and kept per day were also introduced. Anglers increasingly adopted sustainable practices, and tournaments began to reward catches that were released alive rather than harvested.
In 1988, marlin and other billfish species were placed under the protection of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which helped curb overfishing and promote sustainable management practices in U.S. waters. The shift toward conservation played a crucial role in preserving the marlin fishery in Southern California.
Today, marlin fishing remains a popular and respected sport in Southern California, though it has evolved considerably from its early days. Striped marlin are still the most commonly targeted species, though blue and black marlin are occasionally encountered. Many anglers now use lighter tackle, circle hooks, and more ethical fishing practices to ensure the survival of released fish.
While the number of marlin caught each season has fluctuated due to natural cycles, climate change, and oceanic conditions like El Niño, Southern California continues to be a prime location for anglers seeking the thrill of catching a marlin. Charter boats from coastal cities such as Dana Point, Newport Beach, and Marina del Rey take anglers into offshore waters, where they search for the telltale signs of marlin—feeding frenzies, bird activity, and the iconic dorsal fin slicing through the surface.
Tournaments like the Zane Grey Invitational and the Catalina Island Classic remain a testament to the sport’s deep-rooted tradition in the area. The culture of marlin fishing in Southern California is now one that balances excitement with a commitment to conservation, ensuring that future generations of anglers can experience the thrill of marlin fishing while preserving the species for the future.
As Southern California's ocean ecosystem continues to change, marlin fishing adapts with it. The bond between angler and marlin remains as strong as ever, a testament to the enduring appeal of one of the ocean’s most majestic predators.
Southern California's history of marlin fishing is deeply tied to the region's rich marine ecosystem and its vibrant sportfishing culture. The waters off the Southern California coast, from Santa Barbara to San Diego, have long been home to an abundance of marine life, including the elusive and powerful marlin. While commercial fishing has always played a role in the area, the tradition of marlin sportfishing has its roots in the early 20th century.
Early Beginnings (1900s-1930s)
Marlin fishing in Southern California took off in the early 1900s, with the rise of recreational deep-sea fishing. The first organized sportfishing expeditions began in the coastal towns, particularly in Catalina Island and the nearby Channel Islands, which offered quick access to deep, productive waters. Catalina Island, specifically, became a hotbed for marlin fishing, attracting wealthy sportsmen, celebrities, and adventurous anglers. The island's waters were known for their abundance of large game fish, including striped marlin (Kajikia audax), a species prized for its strength and speed.One of the early pioneers of SoCal marlin fishing was Zane Grey, the famous American author and avid angler. Grey wrote extensively about marlin fishing in Southern California, blending his passion for the sport with his storytelling. In 1919, he set a world record by catching a 418-pound Pacific blue marlin near Catalina Island. Grey’s enthusiasm helped popularize marlin fishing in the region, drawing other enthusiasts who sought the thrill of catching large game fish.
Catalina Island also became the home of the Tuna Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious fishing clubs in the United States, founded in 1898. By the 1920s and 1930s, the club’s members had set multiple records for marlin and tuna, and Catalina Island gained a reputation as the birthplace of big-game fishing.
The Golden Age of Marlin Fishing (1940s-1960s)
The mid-20th century marked the golden age of marlin fishing in Southern California. After World War II, advances in boat technology, tackle, and fishing techniques made it easier for anglers to target marlin. The region saw a boom in sportfishing tourism, and charter boats operating out of ports such as San Pedro, Long Beach, and San Diego began offering specialized marlin fishing trips. Anglers now had better access to deep-sea waters, where marlin were often found migrating during the summer and fall months.
During this period, striped marlin were particularly sought after. Known for their striking blue and silver stripes and their spectacular aerial displays when hooked, they became one of the most prized catches off the Southern California coast. The summer and fall months, particularly August through October, became prime marlin season, as warm water currents brought the fish closer to shore.
Several important tournaments were established during this era, further cementing Southern California's status as a marlin fishing destination. The Avalon Billfish Classic and other marlin tournaments attracted anglers from across the country, competing for trophies, records, and bragging rights. These tournaments showcased the skill and perseverance required to land such a formidable fish, and they helped to elevate marlin fishing into a prestigious sport.
Decline and Conservation Efforts (1970s-2000s)
By the 1970s and 1980s, however, marlin populations in Southern California began to face increased pressure from both recreational and commercial fishing. The rapid growth of the sport, combined with a lack of regulations, led to concerns about overfishing. In addition, the rise of commercial longline fishing for marlin and other billfish species in the Pacific Ocean further threatened local populations.
Recognizing the need to protect marlin and other game fish, conservation efforts began to take root. Catch-and-release fishing, which had been promoted by organizations like the Tuna Club since the 1920s, gained widespread acceptance among sportfishing enthusiasts. New regulations limiting the number of marlin that could be caught and kept per day were also introduced. Anglers increasingly adopted sustainable practices, and tournaments began to reward catches that were released alive rather than harvested.
In 1988, marlin and other billfish species were placed under the protection of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which helped curb overfishing and promote sustainable management practices in U.S. waters. The shift toward conservation played a crucial role in preserving the marlin fishery in Southern California.
Modern Marlin Fishing (2000s-present)
Today, marlin fishing remains a popular and respected sport in Southern California, though it has evolved considerably from its early days. Striped marlin are still the most commonly targeted species, though blue and black marlin are occasionally encountered. Many anglers now use lighter tackle, circle hooks, and more ethical fishing practices to ensure the survival of released fish.
While the number of marlin caught each season has fluctuated due to natural cycles, climate change, and oceanic conditions like El Niño, Southern California continues to be a prime location for anglers seeking the thrill of catching a marlin. Charter boats from coastal cities such as Dana Point, Newport Beach, and Marina del Rey take anglers into offshore waters, where they search for the telltale signs of marlin—feeding frenzies, bird activity, and the iconic dorsal fin slicing through the surface.
Tournaments like the Zane Grey Invitational and the Catalina Island Classic remain a testament to the sport’s deep-rooted tradition in the area. The culture of marlin fishing in Southern California is now one that balances excitement with a commitment to conservation, ensuring that future generations of anglers can experience the thrill of marlin fishing while preserving the species for the future.
As Southern California's ocean ecosystem continues to change, marlin fishing adapts with it. The bond between angler and marlin remains as strong as ever, a testament to the enduring appeal of one of the ocean’s most majestic predators.
The Hidden Joys of Fishing: Discoveries Beyond the Catch
by Latimeria
Most of us are highly attuned while fishing, able to hear the faint pop of fish eating a bug or catch the sight of a jumping fish out of the corner of our eye. This heightened awareness helps build the anticipation of a strike, which is what we as fishermen live for and what makes fishing so special.
However, there are times when you just don’t feel the vibe that the fish are feeding. Factors such as high sun, wind, weeds, slack tide, and pleasure craft can all contribute to a lack of confidence. During these moments, I take the opportunity to look around and take in the things I might otherwise miss. Often, I’m so focused on catching fish that I don’t spend much time appreciating my surroundings. It is during these slow times that these discoveries can make up for a slow day of fishing or add the icing on the cake.
Using the acute senses that would otherwise be employed for fishing can also improve your perception of your surroundings. My wife tells me this is a clear sign of Attention Deficit Disorder, but what fisherman doesn’t have ADD to some extent? I like to think of it as a short attention span, but I’m sure my wife is closer to the truth.
While stalking the shoreline and casting, I often scan the ground. I’ve found many fishing lures this way, which is a bonus to my fishing session, but I’ve also discovered many natural gems. One of the most beautiful discoveries I’ve made is the impressions left by fish feeding in the muddy shallows of the back bay. The silt slowly settles out of the water, creating magnificent outlines. I’ve seen perfect imprints of all types of rays, with my favorite being the halibut impressions. These imprints are perfect and will disappear during the next tidal swing, but they remain long enough for me to admire before washing away during the flood tide. There are times when I’ve seen 30 impressions over a 20-yard stretch of beach. It’s just plain cool to see.
Some of the better imprints are from big bat rays that slide up into the shallow water to suck out razor clams. Occasionally, we see massive holes in the mud with big wingtips outlining the shape of these beasts. We especially enjoy seeing these big ray impressions when we are soaking bait for them, as it confirms their presence in the area.
Most of us are highly attuned while fishing, able to hear the faint pop of fish eating a bug or catch the sight of a jumping fish out of the corner of our eye. This heightened awareness helps build the anticipation of a strike, which is what we as fishermen live for and what makes fishing so special.
However, there are times when you just don’t feel the vibe that the fish are feeding. Factors such as high sun, wind, weeds, slack tide, and pleasure craft can all contribute to a lack of confidence. During these moments, I take the opportunity to look around and take in the things I might otherwise miss. Often, I’m so focused on catching fish that I don’t spend much time appreciating my surroundings. It is during these slow times that these discoveries can make up for a slow day of fishing or add the icing on the cake.
Using the acute senses that would otherwise be employed for fishing can also improve your perception of your surroundings. My wife tells me this is a clear sign of Attention Deficit Disorder, but what fisherman doesn’t have ADD to some extent? I like to think of it as a short attention span, but I’m sure my wife is closer to the truth.
While stalking the shoreline and casting, I often scan the ground. I’ve found many fishing lures this way, which is a bonus to my fishing session, but I’ve also discovered many natural gems. One of the most beautiful discoveries I’ve made is the impressions left by fish feeding in the muddy shallows of the back bay. The silt slowly settles out of the water, creating magnificent outlines. I’ve seen perfect imprints of all types of rays, with my favorite being the halibut impressions. These imprints are perfect and will disappear during the next tidal swing, but they remain long enough for me to admire before washing away during the flood tide. There are times when I’ve seen 30 impressions over a 20-yard stretch of beach. It’s just plain cool to see.
Some of the better imprints are from big bat rays that slide up into the shallow water to suck out razor clams. Occasionally, we see massive holes in the mud with big wingtips outlining the shape of these beasts. We especially enjoy seeing these big ray impressions when we are soaking bait for them, as it confirms their presence in the area.
While this phenomenon mostly occurs with dorsally-ventrally flattened fish, I wouldn’t be surprised to see bass belly impressions in the soft mud one day. In any case, keep your eyes peeled and try to appreciate the coolness all around you when you’re out there.
Whether it’s a whale coming up for a breath or a unique sky formation in the distance, these moments can salvage a slow trip and create lasting memories.
Whether it’s a whale coming up for a breath or a unique sky formation in the distance, these moments can salvage a slow trip and create lasting memories.
Butterfly Ray
Round Stingray
Halibut
Butterfly Ray
Multiple Butterflies
Bat Ray
Clams on the move!
Bat Ray
The Grunion Run
by Phong
As the grunion run approaches, the coast is set to be inundated with bait and the game fish that follow them. This includes a variety of species ranging from sharks and rays to bass and halibut. One of the most sought-after game fish during this period is the Shortfin Corvina (Cynoscion parvipinnis), which aggressively attacks the grunion as they move into the shallows to spawn. These West Coast sea trout or weakfish travel in small packs of 3 to 12 or more, herding bait as they slash through with open mouths and big appetites.
One of the most exhilarating ways to catch these fish is with topwater lures. The Zara Super Spook (One Knocker) in bass or chartreuse patterns are among my favorites for all local game fish during this period. Although corvina are not the strongest fighters and have very weak mouths, they are extremely aggressive in their strikes and have a knack for shaking off before you can land them. Any lure resembling the size and color of a grunion will work well, but be sure to set a looser drag to prevent them from throwing or pulling the hook.
As you might expect, nearly everything eats grunion. During a grunion run, you can catch halibut, bass, bonito, white sea bass, perch, yellowfin croaker, and even corbina. With all the smaller bait and game fish rushing in to eat the spawning grunion, larger game fish will also follow, preying on the fish that are feeding on the grunion.
Leopard sharks, Sevengill Sharks, Soupfin Sharks, Bat Rays, Shovelnose Rays, and even Thresher Sharks come into the shallow waters, chasing the bait and the game fish feeding on it. Using a fresh perch head with a steel leader rig in the surf can attract any of these species. The challenge lies in identifying the beach where the grunion will spawn, but once you find it and are present during the run, the action can be intense. Another strategy is to fish the beach the morning after a run or to fish a beach where a grunion run has recently occurred. The fish will come and go for several nights, with game fish staging in the area in anticipation of the next run.
Whether you are using a small rod or a long rod, the grunion run signals the time to prepare your gear for a potential workout. It is always an exciting time for fishermen when the grunion run begins.
-Phong
As the grunion run approaches, the coast is set to be inundated with bait and the game fish that follow them. This includes a variety of species ranging from sharks and rays to bass and halibut. One of the most sought-after game fish during this period is the Shortfin Corvina (Cynoscion parvipinnis), which aggressively attacks the grunion as they move into the shallows to spawn. These West Coast sea trout or weakfish travel in small packs of 3 to 12 or more, herding bait as they slash through with open mouths and big appetites.
One of the most exhilarating ways to catch these fish is with topwater lures. The Zara Super Spook (One Knocker) in bass or chartreuse patterns are among my favorites for all local game fish during this period. Although corvina are not the strongest fighters and have very weak mouths, they are extremely aggressive in their strikes and have a knack for shaking off before you can land them. Any lure resembling the size and color of a grunion will work well, but be sure to set a looser drag to prevent them from throwing or pulling the hook.
As you might expect, nearly everything eats grunion. During a grunion run, you can catch halibut, bass, bonito, white sea bass, perch, yellowfin croaker, and even corbina. With all the smaller bait and game fish rushing in to eat the spawning grunion, larger game fish will also follow, preying on the fish that are feeding on the grunion.
Leopard sharks, Sevengill Sharks, Soupfin Sharks, Bat Rays, Shovelnose Rays, and even Thresher Sharks come into the shallow waters, chasing the bait and the game fish feeding on it. Using a fresh perch head with a steel leader rig in the surf can attract any of these species. The challenge lies in identifying the beach where the grunion will spawn, but once you find it and are present during the run, the action can be intense. Another strategy is to fish the beach the morning after a run or to fish a beach where a grunion run has recently occurred. The fish will come and go for several nights, with game fish staging in the area in anticipation of the next run.
Whether you are using a small rod or a long rod, the grunion run signals the time to prepare your gear for a potential workout. It is always an exciting time for fishermen when the grunion run begins.
-Phong
Big Game Battles
by Latimeria
There are numerous ways to describe a day spent fishing. Sometimes, you start strong and finish weak. Other times, you can’t seem to find any fish at all. Occasionally, you can’t escape them, and sometimes, you start slow but end the trip with a great catch that erases the day’s misfortunes in one fell swoop. Regardless of the outcome, there is always an adrenaline rush, especially when a larger fish is hooked.
It begins with the initial strike, when you realize it’s not an average-sized fish. This is the first “rush” you experience. Your mind and body instantly prepare for the next stage: the battle. Various thoughts cross your mind, such as “Are my connection knots secure?”, “Is my drag set correctly?”, “Are there any weak spots in my line?”, and “Is the fish too close to structure?” Your body and mind go into overdrive, filled with excitement and a hint of nervousness that lingers throughout the fight. Whether you’re fishing from the beach, a boat, a kayak, or a jetty, this feeling is always present when you realize you have a large fish on the line.
The excitement and nervousness intensify as the fish nears the boat. This buildup is akin to an angler’s “happy ending.” The moment the gaff sinks in or the net surrounds the fish, and you know it won’t escape (or at least it’s very unlikely), pure joy, excitement, awe, and even relaxation flood your mind and body.
This is why fishing is so addictive. It provides an endorphin overload and a sense of accomplishment that keeps anglers coming back for more. The stories and bragging rights last for years.
This feeling is even more pronounced when you catch a prehistoric-looking beast like a California Halibut. Large halibut are hard to come by in the Southern California bight, and catching at least one legal fish per trip is a significant accomplishment. Catching a California Halibut over 20 pounds is an adrenaline rush. Catching one over 30 pounds can leave you in awe of its sheer size, and catching one over 40 pounds is truly a remarkable feat. I once saw my friend catch a 44-pound halibut, and it blew my mind. I have yet to join the 40-pound club, but I recently had a chance. The fish’s head was as large as a 40-pounder, but its body was only that of a 30-pounder.
Regardless, they are spectacular fish to catch. Many tedious hours go into halibut fishing for that one small chance at a reward, and the reward is incredibly sweet and satisfying.
Until next tide, happy fishing!
There are numerous ways to describe a day spent fishing. Sometimes, you start strong and finish weak. Other times, you can’t seem to find any fish at all. Occasionally, you can’t escape them, and sometimes, you start slow but end the trip with a great catch that erases the day’s misfortunes in one fell swoop. Regardless of the outcome, there is always an adrenaline rush, especially when a larger fish is hooked.
It begins with the initial strike, when you realize it’s not an average-sized fish. This is the first “rush” you experience. Your mind and body instantly prepare for the next stage: the battle. Various thoughts cross your mind, such as “Are my connection knots secure?”, “Is my drag set correctly?”, “Are there any weak spots in my line?”, and “Is the fish too close to structure?” Your body and mind go into overdrive, filled with excitement and a hint of nervousness that lingers throughout the fight. Whether you’re fishing from the beach, a boat, a kayak, or a jetty, this feeling is always present when you realize you have a large fish on the line.
The excitement and nervousness intensify as the fish nears the boat. This buildup is akin to an angler’s “happy ending.” The moment the gaff sinks in or the net surrounds the fish, and you know it won’t escape (or at least it’s very unlikely), pure joy, excitement, awe, and even relaxation flood your mind and body.
This is why fishing is so addictive. It provides an endorphin overload and a sense of accomplishment that keeps anglers coming back for more. The stories and bragging rights last for years.
This feeling is even more pronounced when you catch a prehistoric-looking beast like a California Halibut. Large halibut are hard to come by in the Southern California bight, and catching at least one legal fish per trip is a significant accomplishment. Catching a California Halibut over 20 pounds is an adrenaline rush. Catching one over 30 pounds can leave you in awe of its sheer size, and catching one over 40 pounds is truly a remarkable feat. I once saw my friend catch a 44-pound halibut, and it blew my mind. I have yet to join the 40-pound club, but I recently had a chance. The fish’s head was as large as a 40-pounder, but its body was only that of a 30-pounder.
Regardless, they are spectacular fish to catch. Many tedious hours go into halibut fishing for that one small chance at a reward, and the reward is incredibly sweet and satisfying.
Until next tide, happy fishing!
Keeping Secrets
We all have put some leg work in and found a very special spot that was either loaded with fish or had a beast living there tucked away to catch on your next trip. Even though we love to “Post for fame”, we sometimes get “Poached by lame”. In this age of the internet, people want to take the easy way and get instant gratification without putting in the time to acquire the experience.
There are a few reasons that I could think of.
-The World Wide Web gives you access to whatever you want to know at the touch of a key.
-People are extremely busy with family and work and have no time to find fish. It’s just easier and faster to find where other people are catching.
-Possibly a feeling of entitlement for those who never had to work to accomplish a goal.
This is not to say that it is a bad attribute to take the path of least resistance, but there are people who work very hard and put their time in to find the places and patterns. After all it costs gas money, time, and frustration when trying to find the species you are targeting. We have all told someone to keep it “Secret” just to come back to find multiple people fishing that exact place you asked to keep secret. It never fails, but in the interest of the people who work hard to get rewarded, it sometimes pays to photoshop out back grounds or not even have anything in the back ground to begin with. Besides, many of the photoshop back grounds are pretty amusing and it gives it a little comic relief to the post.
Most people are willing to “share knowledge”, such as rigs, baits etc, but be prepared to not be told every trade secret and definitely not specific honey holes. Those places are earned and well deserved to be kept from the rest of us as it took a lot of hard work and maybe a little luck. I am not suggesting that everyone Photoshop or edit every background when posting their fishing experience, but be aware that people do this for a good reason and there is no need to hate on them for doing it.
When you see that fish are being caught, just know that there is also somewhere else that they are being caught. Rig up for that particular species and get out there for a scouting mission. I can’t begin to tell you how rewarding one of these missions could be and make you the one that is posting for fame.
I think many of you understand this point I’m making whether you agree with it or not. It’s just something that many good fishermen I’ve run across mention. This is in fact what helps them stay on their game and continue to be successful. Just like most things in life, hard work and patience will reward those over taking the easy route.
Tight Lines.
~Latimeria
There are a few reasons that I could think of.
-The World Wide Web gives you access to whatever you want to know at the touch of a key.
-People are extremely busy with family and work and have no time to find fish. It’s just easier and faster to find where other people are catching.
-Possibly a feeling of entitlement for those who never had to work to accomplish a goal.
This is not to say that it is a bad attribute to take the path of least resistance, but there are people who work very hard and put their time in to find the places and patterns. After all it costs gas money, time, and frustration when trying to find the species you are targeting. We have all told someone to keep it “Secret” just to come back to find multiple people fishing that exact place you asked to keep secret. It never fails, but in the interest of the people who work hard to get rewarded, it sometimes pays to photoshop out back grounds or not even have anything in the back ground to begin with. Besides, many of the photoshop back grounds are pretty amusing and it gives it a little comic relief to the post.
Most people are willing to “share knowledge”, such as rigs, baits etc, but be prepared to not be told every trade secret and definitely not specific honey holes. Those places are earned and well deserved to be kept from the rest of us as it took a lot of hard work and maybe a little luck. I am not suggesting that everyone Photoshop or edit every background when posting their fishing experience, but be aware that people do this for a good reason and there is no need to hate on them for doing it.
When you see that fish are being caught, just know that there is also somewhere else that they are being caught. Rig up for that particular species and get out there for a scouting mission. I can’t begin to tell you how rewarding one of these missions could be and make you the one that is posting for fame.
I think many of you understand this point I’m making whether you agree with it or not. It’s just something that many good fishermen I’ve run across mention. This is in fact what helps them stay on their game and continue to be successful. Just like most things in life, hard work and patience will reward those over taking the easy route.
Tight Lines.
~Latimeria
Better Baiting
One important question for a cut bait fisherman is what bait to use and what will work the best. Sometimes we have all put a live or chunked bait on and thought “Now this is the bait that will catch the big one” or “This thing is not going to stay on the hook on the first cast”. As fishermen and our experiences with fishing, we sometimes know and do things through experience without thinking about it. It becomes second nature to more experienced anglers but unfortunately this is not the case with everyone.
We will stick to cut bait fishing as this pertains to the bulk of the website and the quarry we seek out. I’ll touch on a few reasons for the fresher bait over the older bait questions.
Popular opinion sometimes thinks that a big dumb shark or ray will eat any bloody piece of bait that is presented in front of their face… the stinkier the better mentality. This is not at all true. Even if you are a vulture or Hyena, most creatures will seek out a fresh kill or in this case a fresh bait over one that has the smell of death. This is due to the senses they have acquired through evolution as they or any creature instinctively knows what is more appealing to them through scent.
I’m not a guy that likes to anthropomorphize creatures, but I think this is a fair comparison for the question in hand. When you smell something, let’s say a fresh fish fillet as we are talking shark bait here, it doesn’t have a smell that puts you off (Unless you are like Steve and don’t like fish). If you let it sit there in a hot garage for a day, you’ll have a much different reaction of the fillet as it will be usually followed by a repugnant rotting fish smell. The fillet is overcome by a strong and sour smelling odor. Most organisms are repelled by that particular smell unless hunger pains outweigh the repulsion of the odor. I’m not saying that a shark won’t eat a nasty old fish, but I will say if an opportunity arises for them between a “Fresh Kill” and a “Rotten Kill”, they will take the fresh kill a majority of the time.
When a bait sits in your freezer, it does not stop the rotting process, it just slows it down. Unless you have a Cryo-freezer unit like liquid nitrogen unit which would put the bait in suspended animation, it will continue to rot in the freezer… just at a much slower process. You can tell a mackerel that has been in the freezer for months as opposed to the one that has been in the freezer for a week for example.
Besides the scent factor, fresher baits stay on the hook much better than older baits. The meat is more condensed and tauter while older bait has the muscle fibers breaking down at the cellular level. This makes the bait “softer” and more prone to cast off the hook by the force of a long rod trying to get your bait out into the zone. If I don’t have fresh bait available, I actually like the fresh frozen. This is bait that I have caught, such as mackerel or bonito, that has been in the freezer for a month or less. Soon as it passes that month being frozen, it starts to freezer burn and form ice crystals which means the cells are lysing and the bait is becoming soft and rotting slowly in the freezer. It will still work for bait, but over time you’ll be perfecting your big game fishing techniques, and it will be evident that the freshest baits will attract more bites.
One last major bait question we will deal with in this article is how many times can you freeze and defrost your baits before they become mushy and not good to use?
The more you freeze, thaw and re-freeze your baits… the quicker the rotting process goes and even accelerates as the expansion of the cells between defrosts and re-freezing cycles just ruins the meat. I usually stick with the rule of thumb that I will keep a bait for one re-thaw/freeze and use it for mud marlin, bay fish or chum after that. If you can keep your bait from totally defrosting by storing it in a cooler bag and keeping them still staying partially frozen, then you may get a second trip out of them, but they will not be used as my alpha baits. I’ll use the multiple re-frozen baits as trash fish bait, usually during the light hours or when the bass, eels, or shovelnose guitarfish are ever present, and I am waiting for the sun to drop into the magic hour. I look as using this older bait as “putting some scent in the water” where I am casting. It hopefully catches the big game’s attention and gets them in the area where I am casting. However, when magic hour hits, the fresh prime baits go on the hook for when they come to make a closer inspection of their meal before inhaling it.
In summary, this is my personal preferences for getting fresh bait that you plan on using or freezing for short time use.
• Go to the local pier or jetty armed with your mackerel or bait gear. Be sure to have a cooler with ice in it as that will help to preserve the freshness no different than you icing your own fish for consumption. When you get home, assign what you catch to what you usually go through “bait wise” in a long rod session and portion out gallon baggies with one evening’s worth of bait in each bag. I like to lay my bait out flat before freezing to prevent me from having to rip the frozen fish off each other on the night of use and they freeze much quicker, but that’s just pulling at straws depending on what you like to do. Now you have portioned out bags of fresh bait and you will know how many trips you can fish before having to go out on another bait run. You also don’t have to freeze and defrost more than you need for a single session. Of course, it would be best to use the macks/bait you caught that night, but it sometimes does not work out the way you plan.
• Bring small surf gear to catch some perch or other surf fish that would make exceptional “Match the Hatch” baits for surf sharks and big game. The only thing here is sometimes the perch, yellowfin croaker and other surf fish do not always cooperate with you and you spend a lot of time on the beach just fishing for bait. This is an extremely effective method for surf fishing big game, but always bring some back up baits in case the bait you are searching for does not cooperate.
• Asian Seafood Markets are a great resource for bait! This is (usually) human consumption quality food which in turn is great bait! Buying fresh mackerel or bonito from these stores prior to a surf sharking trip is ideal because it saves a lot of time and effort having to get the bait yourself. I have even bought it to short term freeze for a few upcoming sessions. It works well in a pinch.
• Sport fishing Landings. When the boats are coming back from their 1/2 or 3/4 day trips, a lot of times they have leftover bait or bait at the bottom of their tanks that get stuck in the corners when they dump them. A lot of times, the deck hands will let you scoop them out as it makes it easier for them to clean the boat and don’t care about bait they hope got flushed on the dump. Sometimes, just getting to know some of the deckies at the landings will get you an opportunity to scoop some nice baits from the tank, so always be thankful and bring them some beer. They will appreciate it if they allow you to scoop any. This is not a sure dunk thing though, but just another option at getting some possible fresh bait.
Just like on the sport boats when they are yelling to “Grab Fresh Baits!” during a slow pick of fish, be sure to do the same with cut baits. Change your baits often and use the fresh stuff. It will definitely give you an advantage when hunting the big ones!
Tight Lines
-Latimeria
We will stick to cut bait fishing as this pertains to the bulk of the website and the quarry we seek out. I’ll touch on a few reasons for the fresher bait over the older bait questions.
Popular opinion sometimes thinks that a big dumb shark or ray will eat any bloody piece of bait that is presented in front of their face… the stinkier the better mentality. This is not at all true. Even if you are a vulture or Hyena, most creatures will seek out a fresh kill or in this case a fresh bait over one that has the smell of death. This is due to the senses they have acquired through evolution as they or any creature instinctively knows what is more appealing to them through scent.
I’m not a guy that likes to anthropomorphize creatures, but I think this is a fair comparison for the question in hand. When you smell something, let’s say a fresh fish fillet as we are talking shark bait here, it doesn’t have a smell that puts you off (Unless you are like Steve and don’t like fish). If you let it sit there in a hot garage for a day, you’ll have a much different reaction of the fillet as it will be usually followed by a repugnant rotting fish smell. The fillet is overcome by a strong and sour smelling odor. Most organisms are repelled by that particular smell unless hunger pains outweigh the repulsion of the odor. I’m not saying that a shark won’t eat a nasty old fish, but I will say if an opportunity arises for them between a “Fresh Kill” and a “Rotten Kill”, they will take the fresh kill a majority of the time.
When a bait sits in your freezer, it does not stop the rotting process, it just slows it down. Unless you have a Cryo-freezer unit like liquid nitrogen unit which would put the bait in suspended animation, it will continue to rot in the freezer… just at a much slower process. You can tell a mackerel that has been in the freezer for months as opposed to the one that has been in the freezer for a week for example.
Besides the scent factor, fresher baits stay on the hook much better than older baits. The meat is more condensed and tauter while older bait has the muscle fibers breaking down at the cellular level. This makes the bait “softer” and more prone to cast off the hook by the force of a long rod trying to get your bait out into the zone. If I don’t have fresh bait available, I actually like the fresh frozen. This is bait that I have caught, such as mackerel or bonito, that has been in the freezer for a month or less. Soon as it passes that month being frozen, it starts to freezer burn and form ice crystals which means the cells are lysing and the bait is becoming soft and rotting slowly in the freezer. It will still work for bait, but over time you’ll be perfecting your big game fishing techniques, and it will be evident that the freshest baits will attract more bites.
One last major bait question we will deal with in this article is how many times can you freeze and defrost your baits before they become mushy and not good to use?
The more you freeze, thaw and re-freeze your baits… the quicker the rotting process goes and even accelerates as the expansion of the cells between defrosts and re-freezing cycles just ruins the meat. I usually stick with the rule of thumb that I will keep a bait for one re-thaw/freeze and use it for mud marlin, bay fish or chum after that. If you can keep your bait from totally defrosting by storing it in a cooler bag and keeping them still staying partially frozen, then you may get a second trip out of them, but they will not be used as my alpha baits. I’ll use the multiple re-frozen baits as trash fish bait, usually during the light hours or when the bass, eels, or shovelnose guitarfish are ever present, and I am waiting for the sun to drop into the magic hour. I look as using this older bait as “putting some scent in the water” where I am casting. It hopefully catches the big game’s attention and gets them in the area where I am casting. However, when magic hour hits, the fresh prime baits go on the hook for when they come to make a closer inspection of their meal before inhaling it.
In summary, this is my personal preferences for getting fresh bait that you plan on using or freezing for short time use.
• Go to the local pier or jetty armed with your mackerel or bait gear. Be sure to have a cooler with ice in it as that will help to preserve the freshness no different than you icing your own fish for consumption. When you get home, assign what you catch to what you usually go through “bait wise” in a long rod session and portion out gallon baggies with one evening’s worth of bait in each bag. I like to lay my bait out flat before freezing to prevent me from having to rip the frozen fish off each other on the night of use and they freeze much quicker, but that’s just pulling at straws depending on what you like to do. Now you have portioned out bags of fresh bait and you will know how many trips you can fish before having to go out on another bait run. You also don’t have to freeze and defrost more than you need for a single session. Of course, it would be best to use the macks/bait you caught that night, but it sometimes does not work out the way you plan.
• Bring small surf gear to catch some perch or other surf fish that would make exceptional “Match the Hatch” baits for surf sharks and big game. The only thing here is sometimes the perch, yellowfin croaker and other surf fish do not always cooperate with you and you spend a lot of time on the beach just fishing for bait. This is an extremely effective method for surf fishing big game, but always bring some back up baits in case the bait you are searching for does not cooperate.
• Asian Seafood Markets are a great resource for bait! This is (usually) human consumption quality food which in turn is great bait! Buying fresh mackerel or bonito from these stores prior to a surf sharking trip is ideal because it saves a lot of time and effort having to get the bait yourself. I have even bought it to short term freeze for a few upcoming sessions. It works well in a pinch.
• Sport fishing Landings. When the boats are coming back from their 1/2 or 3/4 day trips, a lot of times they have leftover bait or bait at the bottom of their tanks that get stuck in the corners when they dump them. A lot of times, the deck hands will let you scoop them out as it makes it easier for them to clean the boat and don’t care about bait they hope got flushed on the dump. Sometimes, just getting to know some of the deckies at the landings will get you an opportunity to scoop some nice baits from the tank, so always be thankful and bring them some beer. They will appreciate it if they allow you to scoop any. This is not a sure dunk thing though, but just another option at getting some possible fresh bait.
Just like on the sport boats when they are yelling to “Grab Fresh Baits!” during a slow pick of fish, be sure to do the same with cut baits. Change your baits often and use the fresh stuff. It will definitely give you an advantage when hunting the big ones!
Tight Lines
-Latimeria
Bat Ray Fishing
Bat Ray Fishing Southern California Bays
Here is a little information about how I fish for bat rays in Mission Bay. This isn’t the only way to do it, but it works for me, the guy who taught me much of it, and others whom I have shared these techniques with.
Why? Bat ray fishing in the bay is a fun way to spend some time outdoors. Sitting on the sand with a friend or two, watching the comings and goings of the bay, maybe even a bonfire. Add to that the chance of catching a fish in the 100-pound range or larger and you have the makings of a good time.
Tackle
Targeting bat rays means you may tie into fish over 4 feet across weighing 80-100 pounds or more, so your gear needs to be able to handle that size fish. I prefer conventional gear, but they can be landed on spinning gear too if you are more comfortable using it.
I use mostly 40# test mono line. It is strong enough to pull in big fish and is fairly abrasion resistant. Sometimes I will use 30# mono, but the risk of losing fish is greater. Nobody likes to lose fish, even worse are the comments from the old salts along the lines of “30 pound? Hmmm.”
For rods, something that will handle 40# test and that you are able to cast will do. There is no need for expensive gear, or lightweight modern rods, though if you have them, you might as well use them. Old tuna rods, jigsticks, or if you want a real workout, bring down the 12-foot surf rod.
Reels should be able to hold around 300 yds of 40-pound line. Enough for a good cast, a long powerful run, and some left over so you don’t get all nervous about getting spooled. Simple reels are best. Easy to maintain and able to perform with a little grit and grime without failing and sending you home for the evening. I have Daiwa Sealines, but friends use Penn 500 series with great success. Again, bring the new gear if you want, but most of the time the rod will be in the holder close to the sand, so durability trumps light weight in my mind.
Hooks should be big and strong. I like offset octopus hooks in 9/0 or 10/0 size. Big enough to pin 2 whole squid or a big chunk of mackerel on and leave some of the hook point exposed. Here I have found I prefer the designer hooks. Bat rays have bony plates for teeth and I have lost many fish that I thought were solidly hooked, to cheap hooks bending on the teeth instead of penetrating.
To round off the tackle, you will need egg sinkers in 2-4 oz sizes, pyramid sinkers in 2-6 oz sizes, some heavy swivels in barrel and three-way styles, and some beads.
Rigs
I use three basic rigs, the cannonball rig, a modified fishfinder rig, and a three-way rig
The simplest of these is the cannonball rig. Thread an egg sinker onto your mainline, then a small bead, then tie your hook on. Choose the size of the sinker by the amount of current. You want the sinker to be able to roll some to help position the bait in the current, but you don’t want it to be carried away. This rig is fished with the reel in freespool and with the clicker engaged.
Next is the modified fishfinder rig. To make this rig, cut two pieces of line 2-21/2 feet long and tie a barrel swivel to one end of each of them. to the other end of one, tie your hook. For the second, tie a pyramid sinker to the end opposite the swivel. Again, let the current determine how much weight. The goal with this rig is to have your weight positioned in a specific location and allow you bait to drift away from it in the current without straying too far from where you place it. Also fish this rig in freespool with the clicker on.
The third rig I use is the three-way rig. To one eye of the three-way swivel tie about 2 feet of line with your hook on the other end, to another eye tie a roughly equal length of line with a pyramid sinker. The idea here is to keep the bait close to where you cast it. I fish this rig with the drag engaged, but at about half what I would use to fight the fish, also with the clicker on.
Where to Fish
When selecting a spot to fish, I prefer a sandy beach. Fishing from the rocks at night makes things more difficult. It also is pretty rough on the fish to land them on the rocks. I like to fish in channels and off points of land rather than off a long line of beach. Channels, because they have moving water and concentrate fish as they move about the bay. Points offer access to more water from a given location.
Choosing where to cast your bait once you have chosen your spot is not difficult. Just throw it out there. Bomb it as far as you can, or lob it out just a little ways. Both will work. As you fish a particular location, you may find that certain areas are more productive than others to place your bait. If the current is strong, or there are bits of floating eelgrass, a shorter cast will stay put longer, as will a rig that uses the pyramid sinker.
Bait
For me there are basically two choices for bait, squid, and mackerel. They both have produced well for me in the past, sometimes on the same night. Other nights, the fish seem to prefer one or the other so I like to have both available. I usually fish with two rods so to begin with I will use squid on one rod and mackerel on the other. If one seems to be getting bit more often I will use that on both rods.
Not all squid or mackerel are the same. I prefer bait that I caught myself, that way I know it is reasonably fresh. If I have to buy bait, I look for the best, fresh looking bait I can find. Markets that specialize in Asian foods are often a great source for both mackerel and squid, but they are not always convenient. If I go this route I tend to buy enough bait to last several sessions.Tackle shops usually have both baits available as well, however I usually stick to squid from the tackle shop as often the mackerel are larger than the 12-14 inch size that I prefer. This size allows 3-4 nice baits to be cut from it, but they are not so large that they are difficult to cast or tend to fall off the hook.
Now that you have your bait, take care of it. Fresh, or frozen, I keep my bait in a small cooler bag and only remove what I need to bait the hook. In warmer weather I include a small frozen water bottle to help keep things cold.
When using squid, I will commonly put 2 whole squid on the hook. I hold them together and put the hook through both at the same time at the pointed end, then turn the hook and put it back through them both again. For mackerel, depending on size, I will use the head cut off just behind the pectoral fins and 2-3 more chunks from the body. I usually cut off the tail from the section that contains it.
Other Gear
You will need rod holders. These can be purchased most tackle or sporting goods stores, or home made. Something as simple as 2-3 feet of 1 ½ inch schedule 40 PVC pipe with one end cut at a sharp angle works great. Just make sure your rod butt will fit in easily.
A chair is great to have. Sometimes there can be lots of waiting for a bite.
A light of some kind is essential. I use a headlamp to keep both hands free. Especially helpful when landing and releasing fish.
A knife to cut bait, pliers to pull hooks out and to cut line if you need to re rig.
Rubber boots to keep your feet dry in the water and mud.
After that, the rest is just personal needs, a couple beers, low key of course, some snacks, a rag to wipe your hands, and clothes suited to the weather.
Don’t forget a friend or two, it is good to have some company during slow fishing and good to have some help if the fishing is good
Hooked One, Now What?
Ok, you have gotten your gear together, picked your spot, schlepped everything down to the water's edge, rigged up, pinned on a nice of bait, and cast out. At some point, you will get a bite. This is usually a long clicker screaming run that will make your heart pound, make you jump out of your chair and run to grab your rod. Other times it is just a subtle bump or bend in the rod.
If you get the screamer, grab your rod out of the holder, put it into gear and hold on tight. Turn the clicker off after you are sure all your friends know you have a fish on. Then set the hook with a couple good tugs. Most times by the time the fish is pulling drag the hook is firmly in its mouth, the hookset is just for security. Make sure your drag is set properly for the line you are using. I do this by hand and always have. One of these days I should measure it with a scale.
If you see a subtle bend, or maybe your line suddenly goes slack, you may have a bite. Put you reel in gear, take up the slack and set the hook. You will know if you have a fish on right away. Hooksets are free and if you didn’t have a bite, it is a good excuse to check your bait.
So, now you are hooked up, line is peeling off your reel, and you are wondering if you really do have enough line. Relax, keep a bend in the rod, and enjoy the fight. Let the drag do its job. At some point the fish will tire or turn and come towards you. This is when you gain some line back. Keep tension on the line and a bend in the rod, as the fish gets closer to shore, it is helpful to back up rather than reel in more line. This will put more of the force into pulling the ray into shore than into trying to lift it up.
Once you have your fish in the shallow water, it is time to pull it onto the beach. From in front of the ray, grab it using the two blowholes, one on each side of the head near the eyes. These make a convenient handle and if done carefully don’t harm the fish. This is when it is nice to have a friend around. Either to land the fish, hold your rod while you land the fish, or run to grab the pliers and camera to release the fish and get a picture.
Beware of the spine located near the base of the tail. It is not a pleasant experience to be stung. I recommend leaving the ray on the ground for pictures.
After landing the ray, and getting a couple pictures, turn it on its back and remove the hook. Then turn it back over and drag it back to water deep enough to cover it. It may swim off right away, or it may need to rest up after its ordeal. If you can see it moving water through its blowholes, it will be fine. They are tough creatures but should be handled respectfully and returned to the water in a timely fashion.
~Sasquatch
Here is a little information about how I fish for bat rays in Mission Bay. This isn’t the only way to do it, but it works for me, the guy who taught me much of it, and others whom I have shared these techniques with.
Why? Bat ray fishing in the bay is a fun way to spend some time outdoors. Sitting on the sand with a friend or two, watching the comings and goings of the bay, maybe even a bonfire. Add to that the chance of catching a fish in the 100-pound range or larger and you have the makings of a good time.
Tackle
Targeting bat rays means you may tie into fish over 4 feet across weighing 80-100 pounds or more, so your gear needs to be able to handle that size fish. I prefer conventional gear, but they can be landed on spinning gear too if you are more comfortable using it.
I use mostly 40# test mono line. It is strong enough to pull in big fish and is fairly abrasion resistant. Sometimes I will use 30# mono, but the risk of losing fish is greater. Nobody likes to lose fish, even worse are the comments from the old salts along the lines of “30 pound? Hmmm.”
For rods, something that will handle 40# test and that you are able to cast will do. There is no need for expensive gear, or lightweight modern rods, though if you have them, you might as well use them. Old tuna rods, jigsticks, or if you want a real workout, bring down the 12-foot surf rod.
Reels should be able to hold around 300 yds of 40-pound line. Enough for a good cast, a long powerful run, and some left over so you don’t get all nervous about getting spooled. Simple reels are best. Easy to maintain and able to perform with a little grit and grime without failing and sending you home for the evening. I have Daiwa Sealines, but friends use Penn 500 series with great success. Again, bring the new gear if you want, but most of the time the rod will be in the holder close to the sand, so durability trumps light weight in my mind.
Hooks should be big and strong. I like offset octopus hooks in 9/0 or 10/0 size. Big enough to pin 2 whole squid or a big chunk of mackerel on and leave some of the hook point exposed. Here I have found I prefer the designer hooks. Bat rays have bony plates for teeth and I have lost many fish that I thought were solidly hooked, to cheap hooks bending on the teeth instead of penetrating.
To round off the tackle, you will need egg sinkers in 2-4 oz sizes, pyramid sinkers in 2-6 oz sizes, some heavy swivels in barrel and three-way styles, and some beads.
Rigs
I use three basic rigs, the cannonball rig, a modified fishfinder rig, and a three-way rig
The simplest of these is the cannonball rig. Thread an egg sinker onto your mainline, then a small bead, then tie your hook on. Choose the size of the sinker by the amount of current. You want the sinker to be able to roll some to help position the bait in the current, but you don’t want it to be carried away. This rig is fished with the reel in freespool and with the clicker engaged.
Next is the modified fishfinder rig. To make this rig, cut two pieces of line 2-21/2 feet long and tie a barrel swivel to one end of each of them. to the other end of one, tie your hook. For the second, tie a pyramid sinker to the end opposite the swivel. Again, let the current determine how much weight. The goal with this rig is to have your weight positioned in a specific location and allow you bait to drift away from it in the current without straying too far from where you place it. Also fish this rig in freespool with the clicker on.
The third rig I use is the three-way rig. To one eye of the three-way swivel tie about 2 feet of line with your hook on the other end, to another eye tie a roughly equal length of line with a pyramid sinker. The idea here is to keep the bait close to where you cast it. I fish this rig with the drag engaged, but at about half what I would use to fight the fish, also with the clicker on.
Where to Fish
When selecting a spot to fish, I prefer a sandy beach. Fishing from the rocks at night makes things more difficult. It also is pretty rough on the fish to land them on the rocks. I like to fish in channels and off points of land rather than off a long line of beach. Channels, because they have moving water and concentrate fish as they move about the bay. Points offer access to more water from a given location.
Choosing where to cast your bait once you have chosen your spot is not difficult. Just throw it out there. Bomb it as far as you can, or lob it out just a little ways. Both will work. As you fish a particular location, you may find that certain areas are more productive than others to place your bait. If the current is strong, or there are bits of floating eelgrass, a shorter cast will stay put longer, as will a rig that uses the pyramid sinker.
Bait
For me there are basically two choices for bait, squid, and mackerel. They both have produced well for me in the past, sometimes on the same night. Other nights, the fish seem to prefer one or the other so I like to have both available. I usually fish with two rods so to begin with I will use squid on one rod and mackerel on the other. If one seems to be getting bit more often I will use that on both rods.
Not all squid or mackerel are the same. I prefer bait that I caught myself, that way I know it is reasonably fresh. If I have to buy bait, I look for the best, fresh looking bait I can find. Markets that specialize in Asian foods are often a great source for both mackerel and squid, but they are not always convenient. If I go this route I tend to buy enough bait to last several sessions.Tackle shops usually have both baits available as well, however I usually stick to squid from the tackle shop as often the mackerel are larger than the 12-14 inch size that I prefer. This size allows 3-4 nice baits to be cut from it, but they are not so large that they are difficult to cast or tend to fall off the hook.
Now that you have your bait, take care of it. Fresh, or frozen, I keep my bait in a small cooler bag and only remove what I need to bait the hook. In warmer weather I include a small frozen water bottle to help keep things cold.
When using squid, I will commonly put 2 whole squid on the hook. I hold them together and put the hook through both at the same time at the pointed end, then turn the hook and put it back through them both again. For mackerel, depending on size, I will use the head cut off just behind the pectoral fins and 2-3 more chunks from the body. I usually cut off the tail from the section that contains it.
Other Gear
You will need rod holders. These can be purchased most tackle or sporting goods stores, or home made. Something as simple as 2-3 feet of 1 ½ inch schedule 40 PVC pipe with one end cut at a sharp angle works great. Just make sure your rod butt will fit in easily.
A chair is great to have. Sometimes there can be lots of waiting for a bite.
A light of some kind is essential. I use a headlamp to keep both hands free. Especially helpful when landing and releasing fish.
A knife to cut bait, pliers to pull hooks out and to cut line if you need to re rig.
Rubber boots to keep your feet dry in the water and mud.
After that, the rest is just personal needs, a couple beers, low key of course, some snacks, a rag to wipe your hands, and clothes suited to the weather.
Don’t forget a friend or two, it is good to have some company during slow fishing and good to have some help if the fishing is good
Hooked One, Now What?
Ok, you have gotten your gear together, picked your spot, schlepped everything down to the water's edge, rigged up, pinned on a nice of bait, and cast out. At some point, you will get a bite. This is usually a long clicker screaming run that will make your heart pound, make you jump out of your chair and run to grab your rod. Other times it is just a subtle bump or bend in the rod.
If you get the screamer, grab your rod out of the holder, put it into gear and hold on tight. Turn the clicker off after you are sure all your friends know you have a fish on. Then set the hook with a couple good tugs. Most times by the time the fish is pulling drag the hook is firmly in its mouth, the hookset is just for security. Make sure your drag is set properly for the line you are using. I do this by hand and always have. One of these days I should measure it with a scale.
If you see a subtle bend, or maybe your line suddenly goes slack, you may have a bite. Put you reel in gear, take up the slack and set the hook. You will know if you have a fish on right away. Hooksets are free and if you didn’t have a bite, it is a good excuse to check your bait.
So, now you are hooked up, line is peeling off your reel, and you are wondering if you really do have enough line. Relax, keep a bend in the rod, and enjoy the fight. Let the drag do its job. At some point the fish will tire or turn and come towards you. This is when you gain some line back. Keep tension on the line and a bend in the rod, as the fish gets closer to shore, it is helpful to back up rather than reel in more line. This will put more of the force into pulling the ray into shore than into trying to lift it up.
Once you have your fish in the shallow water, it is time to pull it onto the beach. From in front of the ray, grab it using the two blowholes, one on each side of the head near the eyes. These make a convenient handle and if done carefully don’t harm the fish. This is when it is nice to have a friend around. Either to land the fish, hold your rod while you land the fish, or run to grab the pliers and camera to release the fish and get a picture.
Beware of the spine located near the base of the tail. It is not a pleasant experience to be stung. I recommend leaving the ray on the ground for pictures.
After landing the ray, and getting a couple pictures, turn it on its back and remove the hook. Then turn it back over and drag it back to water deep enough to cover it. It may swim off right away, or it may need to rest up after its ordeal. If you can see it moving water through its blowholes, it will be fine. They are tough creatures but should be handled respectfully and returned to the water in a timely fashion.
~Sasquatch
Big Game Long Rod Fishing
Surf fishing in Southern California for many anglers down here usually involve small bass rods and light line. There are a few who target something a little bigger and badder that swim our surf and can test your tackle as well as your back.
For years my friend Don up in LA would try to get me to go out in the surf looking for bigger surf critters. I would occasionally do so, but spending all of that time and energy getting to the beach just to find it loaded with kelp (totally unfishable) or loaded with beach goers was too much for me. Plan B was seldom an option, so I only fished this way when I knew I could actually “fish”. Don has caught many Soupfin Sharks, Leopard Sharks and Bat Rays on his long rod in the surf and constantly made
fun of my easy going and comfortable “Bay Fishing” rather than fishing the chaos of the surf.
During one of our Saturday Night Bat Fights (2009), Don calls me up to let me know that he just caught a 101” monster male Sevengill Shark! Even though it did not count for the tournament, it was by far the biggest and best thing caught in the event. This catch of his truly opened up my eyes forced my hand to get out and surf fish for big game! After all, most fishermen have an inner (friendly) competition within them to out fish their buddies at all costs.
I had a beach picked out that I wanted to try for months, but always just put it on the back burner. Finally Sasquatch nudged me to go out and give it a try one night. We armed ourselves with the long rods, steel leader and big baits. It wasn’t long before the disease spread through us as we both got a Sevengill Shark each on our first try along with some whopper Leopard Sharks. We were officially hooked at this point and have not let off the gas since.
The gear is simple but the rigs have evolved over time as we started with a modified slide rig to a straight 3-way swivel rig. Here is a list of the general gear we use.
This is just what we found to work the best for us, but there is no right or wrong way if you are catching fish on your “go to” rig.
The Gear (This is just what we consider ideal, but not necessary)
• 12’ to 14’ conventional surf rod capable of throwing weights in the 6-10+ ounce range.
• High speed conventional reel capable of holding at minimum of 300 yards of 40# mono.
• Long sand spike (6’) that could accommodate the rod and possibly hold it up another 3 feet off the sand for better line clearance of the surf
• Heavy Duty Pliers
• Knife & cutting board
• Towel
• Waterproof camera
The Tackle
• 8/0 to 10/0 Hooks (XXX Octopus is our favorite, but a live bait hook will also do)
• 90# to 170# steel leader with appropriate crimps
• 3-way swivel 100# to 135#
• 150 yards of 80# braid backing / 250 yards of quality 40# mono / 20 feet of 80# shock leader
• 6 to 8 ounce Sputnik style surf sinker
• Back up rigs since it is inevitable you may lose a rig or two while fishing this manner.
The Bait
• Mackerel (Spanish or Greenies)
• Bonito
• Fresh Surf Perch
• Sardines (Not my favorite, but they do work)
• Whole Squid
*Sasquatch uses hollow braid and a nail knot to 80# shock leader to avoid the Albright Knot that I use. It keeps the big knot from going through the guides and possibly breaking out an insert as well as not ripping his thumb open on a huge cast if he doesn’t line the knot up right. Personalization is key as you need confidence in what you do. Both ways have served us well.
The next thing is to find a fishy beach depending what target you are looking for and set up. Reef, Sand, Kelp line, Sloughs, Inlets are all things you want to be looking for when deciding on where to go, but sometimes let the bait decide things for you. If there is a big grunion run going on, well there certainly will be game fish to eat the bait and BIGGER game there to eat them! It takes a lot of trial and error as each place behaves differently than another when it comes to how /when the fish bite.
We generally like the incoming tide, but have caught fish in all tide levels. We fish when we could get out, so sometimes the tide doesn’t matter as long as the surf is fishable for us to heave out a bait and let it soak for at least 10 minutes undisturbed at a time.
The general rule of thumb is to cast as far as you can. A 40-70 yard cast is usually ideal depending what bait you throw. A mackerel steak will go a hell of a lot further than 2 squid pinned on a hook or even a head for that matter. I’m not sure if it is wind resistance, density of the bait or possibly your thumb having a harder time to hold the spool on the cast and thus does not retain all of the energy of the rod loading up. If you make a short cast and there is a slough running there, then all the better. Some of these big fish really swim in skinny water (well at least for their mass).
Be prepared to spend many nights wearing the stripe as this type of fishing truly requires patience.
Now you have the cast out… and what now? Steve and I like keeping the reel in gear, but loosening up the star drag a crank or two. You want to be able to pull line off easily with your hand, but not enough for the fish to rip the rod out of the rod holder (I’ve made a small bungee rig attached to the rod holder to wrap around the rod butt as a safety strap).
Turn the clicker on and make the line taught. This will keep your line above the crashing waves and keep from bowing the line into your neighbor’s casting zone. Don’t worry about letting the fish run with the bait. Trust me, when you compare their mouths to the size bait you are using, they gobble it on the first shot and by the time you get to the rod and set the hook, it has already been on there for enough time. Each hit is different, so take what I just said with a grain of salt. Let the bite dictate how you react to setting the hook. Now it is just time to wait for the bite.
Each fish, even the same species, hits the bait differently. Some hit and run like a freight train and some seem to nibble on it just to turn out to be a monster! Once you set the hook, the fight is on and the hardest part will be landing them in the surf. Landing a fish in the bay is a cake walk compared to the pounding surf environment, not
to mention your quarry is usually bigger, meaner and toothier.
Make sure you take greater care in landing the fish and it is advisable to have a buddy out there helping you. A Sevengill is more of a fight for the person trying to beach the shark than the actual angler fighting it. These sharks can (and usually do) reach around in a complete circle and bite their own tail and will easily take your hand off it it gets you. Those teeth are multi-serrated and razer sharp. Don’t get complacent with your skills landing a big critter, as all it takes is that one moment of letting your guard down and BAM! It could get real ugly there fast.
Hopefully this helps you get out there and see what bigger game the surf has to offer. Be prepared to spend many nights wearing the stripe as this type of fishing truly requires patience. Look at this fishing as you are just waiting for that one bite… but that bite might be The ONE!!!!
Good luck and I may see you on the sand one day.
Tight Lines!
-Latimeria
For years my friend Don up in LA would try to get me to go out in the surf looking for bigger surf critters. I would occasionally do so, but spending all of that time and energy getting to the beach just to find it loaded with kelp (totally unfishable) or loaded with beach goers was too much for me. Plan B was seldom an option, so I only fished this way when I knew I could actually “fish”. Don has caught many Soupfin Sharks, Leopard Sharks and Bat Rays on his long rod in the surf and constantly made
fun of my easy going and comfortable “Bay Fishing” rather than fishing the chaos of the surf.
During one of our Saturday Night Bat Fights (2009), Don calls me up to let me know that he just caught a 101” monster male Sevengill Shark! Even though it did not count for the tournament, it was by far the biggest and best thing caught in the event. This catch of his truly opened up my eyes forced my hand to get out and surf fish for big game! After all, most fishermen have an inner (friendly) competition within them to out fish their buddies at all costs.
I had a beach picked out that I wanted to try for months, but always just put it on the back burner. Finally Sasquatch nudged me to go out and give it a try one night. We armed ourselves with the long rods, steel leader and big baits. It wasn’t long before the disease spread through us as we both got a Sevengill Shark each on our first try along with some whopper Leopard Sharks. We were officially hooked at this point and have not let off the gas since.
The gear is simple but the rigs have evolved over time as we started with a modified slide rig to a straight 3-way swivel rig. Here is a list of the general gear we use.
This is just what we found to work the best for us, but there is no right or wrong way if you are catching fish on your “go to” rig.
The Gear (This is just what we consider ideal, but not necessary)
• 12’ to 14’ conventional surf rod capable of throwing weights in the 6-10+ ounce range.
• High speed conventional reel capable of holding at minimum of 300 yards of 40# mono.
• Long sand spike (6’) that could accommodate the rod and possibly hold it up another 3 feet off the sand for better line clearance of the surf
• Heavy Duty Pliers
• Knife & cutting board
• Towel
• Waterproof camera
The Tackle
• 8/0 to 10/0 Hooks (XXX Octopus is our favorite, but a live bait hook will also do)
• 90# to 170# steel leader with appropriate crimps
• 3-way swivel 100# to 135#
• 150 yards of 80# braid backing / 250 yards of quality 40# mono / 20 feet of 80# shock leader
• 6 to 8 ounce Sputnik style surf sinker
• Back up rigs since it is inevitable you may lose a rig or two while fishing this manner.
The Bait
• Mackerel (Spanish or Greenies)
• Bonito
• Fresh Surf Perch
• Sardines (Not my favorite, but they do work)
• Whole Squid
*Sasquatch uses hollow braid and a nail knot to 80# shock leader to avoid the Albright Knot that I use. It keeps the big knot from going through the guides and possibly breaking out an insert as well as not ripping his thumb open on a huge cast if he doesn’t line the knot up right. Personalization is key as you need confidence in what you do. Both ways have served us well.
The next thing is to find a fishy beach depending what target you are looking for and set up. Reef, Sand, Kelp line, Sloughs, Inlets are all things you want to be looking for when deciding on where to go, but sometimes let the bait decide things for you. If there is a big grunion run going on, well there certainly will be game fish to eat the bait and BIGGER game there to eat them! It takes a lot of trial and error as each place behaves differently than another when it comes to how /when the fish bite.
We generally like the incoming tide, but have caught fish in all tide levels. We fish when we could get out, so sometimes the tide doesn’t matter as long as the surf is fishable for us to heave out a bait and let it soak for at least 10 minutes undisturbed at a time.
The general rule of thumb is to cast as far as you can. A 40-70 yard cast is usually ideal depending what bait you throw. A mackerel steak will go a hell of a lot further than 2 squid pinned on a hook or even a head for that matter. I’m not sure if it is wind resistance, density of the bait or possibly your thumb having a harder time to hold the spool on the cast and thus does not retain all of the energy of the rod loading up. If you make a short cast and there is a slough running there, then all the better. Some of these big fish really swim in skinny water (well at least for their mass).
Be prepared to spend many nights wearing the stripe as this type of fishing truly requires patience.
Now you have the cast out… and what now? Steve and I like keeping the reel in gear, but loosening up the star drag a crank or two. You want to be able to pull line off easily with your hand, but not enough for the fish to rip the rod out of the rod holder (I’ve made a small bungee rig attached to the rod holder to wrap around the rod butt as a safety strap).
Turn the clicker on and make the line taught. This will keep your line above the crashing waves and keep from bowing the line into your neighbor’s casting zone. Don’t worry about letting the fish run with the bait. Trust me, when you compare their mouths to the size bait you are using, they gobble it on the first shot and by the time you get to the rod and set the hook, it has already been on there for enough time. Each hit is different, so take what I just said with a grain of salt. Let the bite dictate how you react to setting the hook. Now it is just time to wait for the bite.
Each fish, even the same species, hits the bait differently. Some hit and run like a freight train and some seem to nibble on it just to turn out to be a monster! Once you set the hook, the fight is on and the hardest part will be landing them in the surf. Landing a fish in the bay is a cake walk compared to the pounding surf environment, not
to mention your quarry is usually bigger, meaner and toothier.
Make sure you take greater care in landing the fish and it is advisable to have a buddy out there helping you. A Sevengill is more of a fight for the person trying to beach the shark than the actual angler fighting it. These sharks can (and usually do) reach around in a complete circle and bite their own tail and will easily take your hand off it it gets you. Those teeth are multi-serrated and razer sharp. Don’t get complacent with your skills landing a big critter, as all it takes is that one moment of letting your guard down and BAM! It could get real ugly there fast.
Hopefully this helps you get out there and see what bigger game the surf has to offer. Be prepared to spend many nights wearing the stripe as this type of fishing truly requires patience. Look at this fishing as you are just waiting for that one bite… but that bite might be The ONE!!!!
Good luck and I may see you on the sand one day.
Tight Lines!
-Latimeria
The Curse of the Bad Luck Bananas
The Banana Curse…. I was always a freshwater fishing guy growing up and was hypnotized with the allure of the Largemouth Bass as many kids were back then. It was so easy to grab your bike and run down to the local pond looking for the next world record bucket mouth! Back then, riding your bike a few miles to go fishing wasn’t taboo, so I would ride down to the local pond and/or stream every day as my appetite for fishing could not be quenched.
It wasn’t until I was about 10 when my father took me out salt water fishing on one of the local party boats looking for fluke and weakfish. It was a strange and new experience in all senses… The sour smell of diesel along with a bitter smell of the salty low tide mixed with an almost sweet smell of fresh bait being cut for our first stop. I vividly remember a passenger taking out a banana for breakfast out of his cooler when the passenger next to me said to another “Tell the mate, someone’s eating a banana!”.
Sure enough the mate came around the stern and grabbed the banana right out of the patron’s hand and tossed it into the sea while yelling “What are you doing!?!? Looking to jinx the boat or get us all killed?!?!”
Now I was puzzled and asked my dad what was going to happen to us since the banana was such a bad thing. His response was nothing more than “Just a silly superstition boat fishermen have”. My dad didn’t seem to care, but I needed to know why there was such a reaction to the banana on board and what would cause a stranger to rip a banana out of another man’s hand and just toss it out to the big blue sea! I hunted down the first mate and questioned him why a banana was such bad luck to make him do something like that. His response did not actually answer why he did such a thing, but it left a lasting impression on me. To paraphrase, he said “One day you may work on a fishing boat, if you are lucky enough, and come to find out there is something bad lurking behind every wave in the ocean. Every sailor and captain know the words of wisdom passed down from generation to generation. Red sky at night, sailor’s delight…. red sky in the morning, sailor’s take warning and the worst of them all… NO BANANAS ON BOARD!!!!
It didn’t take much more than that to be etched into my brain that bananas are bad for all boaters.
As time went on, I never questioned the banana curse and eventually started working on party boats and private 6-pack charters. Each Captain was firmly rooted in the banana curse. I was instructed to throw any banana overboard that I saw and to check the coolers as we were heading out. I have to say that I have had many close calls with fist fights over this, but thankfully the majority of the passengers all knew the rule and I had enough people to back me when disposing of that vile musa fruit back into the sea.
Funny enough, the internet didn’t arrive until after I was out of college and all of a sudden, an entire barrage of information was at my fingertips! I needed to know why this was now burned into my brain and why so many people were aware of this curse when it didn’t seem possible that so many anglers/boaters could be on the same page over all of these years.
My research led me to two distinct scientific reasons and a bunch of superstitions to why it was bad luck. I came across a hundred reasons why, but I found the two most logical and best-known reasons stemmed from transatlantic crossings by wooden sailing ships as many hazards would befall the captains, crew and passengers. Disease, pirates, shipwrecks, storms, etc., claimed the lives of a good percentage of the captains, crew and passengers attempting the dangerous voyage. Needless to say, a transatlantic crossing in the 17th and 18th centuries was a very risky endeavor. Often the vessels would stop along the way in tropical islands to gather provisions such as food and water. There the passengers and crew would often purchase wooden crates of bananas from the locals and bring them aboard the ship. These crates would have all manner of critters in them such as bugs, spiders, vermin and snakes.
A similar twist on this hypothesis is when a fishing boat would head out to fish for a few days, they would load up with plenty of fruit and salted foods for the trip. Bananas were one of the most prolific foods in the area and would also carry these unsuspecting killers on board. Being on the boat with no way to escape, the spiders and deadly cargo could easily bite someone, and the boat would have to return to port with a severely injured captain or crew.
The second most common reason for bananas being a curse was that all of the food and fruit would go bad in a short time while on the boat compared to that on land and there was no logical explanation. This caused fishermen having to return early from a good bite because of lack of food and even starvation from this putrification. Little did they know that bananas, apples and other fruits give off a gaseous hormone ethylene that ripens fruit in a quickened state. This is similar to putting an apple in a bag with un-ripened avocados and having them ripen much quicker.
Whatever the reason for the superstition may be, 33 years after that first boat trip from the 10-year-old boy, I am a full-on believer. I have firsthand seen the curse in action time and time again with non-believers who now are fully believers in such a banana curse. There are some however that tempt fate and use them for bait and purposely bring them on board to buck the system claiming it as only a silly superstition. It’s fine for them as it hasn’t affected them yet, but my question to them is “Why tempt fate?” I love that I am passing down this time piece to future boatmen as it will always be lore in the life of a fishermen, whether you believe in it or not. I am generally not a superstitious, except in this case where I respect the curse… The curse of the BANANA!!!!
Tight lines
~ Latimeria
It wasn’t until I was about 10 when my father took me out salt water fishing on one of the local party boats looking for fluke and weakfish. It was a strange and new experience in all senses… The sour smell of diesel along with a bitter smell of the salty low tide mixed with an almost sweet smell of fresh bait being cut for our first stop. I vividly remember a passenger taking out a banana for breakfast out of his cooler when the passenger next to me said to another “Tell the mate, someone’s eating a banana!”.
Sure enough the mate came around the stern and grabbed the banana right out of the patron’s hand and tossed it into the sea while yelling “What are you doing!?!? Looking to jinx the boat or get us all killed?!?!”
Now I was puzzled and asked my dad what was going to happen to us since the banana was such a bad thing. His response was nothing more than “Just a silly superstition boat fishermen have”. My dad didn’t seem to care, but I needed to know why there was such a reaction to the banana on board and what would cause a stranger to rip a banana out of another man’s hand and just toss it out to the big blue sea! I hunted down the first mate and questioned him why a banana was such bad luck to make him do something like that. His response did not actually answer why he did such a thing, but it left a lasting impression on me. To paraphrase, he said “One day you may work on a fishing boat, if you are lucky enough, and come to find out there is something bad lurking behind every wave in the ocean. Every sailor and captain know the words of wisdom passed down from generation to generation. Red sky at night, sailor’s delight…. red sky in the morning, sailor’s take warning and the worst of them all… NO BANANAS ON BOARD!!!!
It didn’t take much more than that to be etched into my brain that bananas are bad for all boaters.
As time went on, I never questioned the banana curse and eventually started working on party boats and private 6-pack charters. Each Captain was firmly rooted in the banana curse. I was instructed to throw any banana overboard that I saw and to check the coolers as we were heading out. I have to say that I have had many close calls with fist fights over this, but thankfully the majority of the passengers all knew the rule and I had enough people to back me when disposing of that vile musa fruit back into the sea.
Funny enough, the internet didn’t arrive until after I was out of college and all of a sudden, an entire barrage of information was at my fingertips! I needed to know why this was now burned into my brain and why so many people were aware of this curse when it didn’t seem possible that so many anglers/boaters could be on the same page over all of these years.
My research led me to two distinct scientific reasons and a bunch of superstitions to why it was bad luck. I came across a hundred reasons why, but I found the two most logical and best-known reasons stemmed from transatlantic crossings by wooden sailing ships as many hazards would befall the captains, crew and passengers. Disease, pirates, shipwrecks, storms, etc., claimed the lives of a good percentage of the captains, crew and passengers attempting the dangerous voyage. Needless to say, a transatlantic crossing in the 17th and 18th centuries was a very risky endeavor. Often the vessels would stop along the way in tropical islands to gather provisions such as food and water. There the passengers and crew would often purchase wooden crates of bananas from the locals and bring them aboard the ship. These crates would have all manner of critters in them such as bugs, spiders, vermin and snakes.
A similar twist on this hypothesis is when a fishing boat would head out to fish for a few days, they would load up with plenty of fruit and salted foods for the trip. Bananas were one of the most prolific foods in the area and would also carry these unsuspecting killers on board. Being on the boat with no way to escape, the spiders and deadly cargo could easily bite someone, and the boat would have to return to port with a severely injured captain or crew.
The second most common reason for bananas being a curse was that all of the food and fruit would go bad in a short time while on the boat compared to that on land and there was no logical explanation. This caused fishermen having to return early from a good bite because of lack of food and even starvation from this putrification. Little did they know that bananas, apples and other fruits give off a gaseous hormone ethylene that ripens fruit in a quickened state. This is similar to putting an apple in a bag with un-ripened avocados and having them ripen much quicker.
Whatever the reason for the superstition may be, 33 years after that first boat trip from the 10-year-old boy, I am a full-on believer. I have firsthand seen the curse in action time and time again with non-believers who now are fully believers in such a banana curse. There are some however that tempt fate and use them for bait and purposely bring them on board to buck the system claiming it as only a silly superstition. It’s fine for them as it hasn’t affected them yet, but my question to them is “Why tempt fate?” I love that I am passing down this time piece to future boatmen as it will always be lore in the life of a fishermen, whether you believe in it or not. I am generally not a superstitious, except in this case where I respect the curse… The curse of the BANANA!!!!
Tight lines
~ Latimeria
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