Episodes

  • Thanksgiving Fishing in the SF Bay: Halibut, Rockfish, and Dungeness Crab Galore

    Thanksgiving Fishing in the SF Bay: Halibut, Rockfish, and Dungeness Crab Galore
    Nov 22 2024
    For November 22, 2024, here’s a local’s perspective on the fishing scene in the San Francisco Bay area:

    Today, November 22, the sun rises at 6:53 AM and sets at 4:53 PM, giving you a decent window for a full day of fishing. The tidal report shows a high tide at 8:34 AM with 6.4 feet and a low tide at 2:34 PM with 1.3 feet, which could affect the fish activity, especially for species like halibut and rockfish.

    Weather conditions are expected to be partly cloudy with a high of 58°F and a low of 48°F, making it a comfortable day to be out on the water. Winds will be moderate, around 10-15 mph, which might make the sea a bit choppy but still manageable.

    Yesterday's fishing reports indicate that halibut are still active in the area. Depths of 40 to 80 feet are your best bet for catching these flatfish, especially around the reefs and nearshore areas. Rockfish are also plentiful, particularly near the reefs that reopened on November 1. Surfcasters have been finding quality perch and even some striped bass from the sandy beaches north towards Moss Landing.

    For those targeting Dungeness crab, the season opened on November 2, and while the initial opener was challenging due to undersized crabs, recent reports suggest better catches. Boats launching from Moss Landing have been successful in finding crab, especially when traveling to reefy areas closer to Monterey or Santa Cruz.

    If you're looking for hot spots, Half Moon Bay is a great place to start. Charters like the Queen of Hearts and the Riptide have been posting near limits of crab and rockfish. In the San Francisco Bay itself, areas around the Golden Gate Bridge and the Farallon Islands can be productive for halibut and rockfish.

    For lures and bait, live bait such as anchovies and sardines are always a good choice for halibut and rockfish. For rockfish, using squid or shrimp can also yield good results. If you're after Dungeness crab, traditional crab traps baited with squid or fish guts are the way to go.

    Overall, it's shaping up to be a good day for fishing in the San Francisco Bay area, with a variety of species available and favorable weather conditions. Just be mindful of the tidal changes and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Bay: Tides, Targets, and Tactics for a Successful Day on the Water

    Fishing the Bay: Tides, Targets, and Tactics for a Successful Day on the Water
    Nov 21 2024
    For November 21, 2024, here’s a local’s perspective on the fishing scene in the San Francisco Bay area:

    Today, the tide is looking favorable for some good fishing. The high tide is at 8:15 AM and the low tide at 2:45 PM, which should give you some excellent windows to catch a variety of fish. The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a gentle breeze, making it a comfortable day on the water.

    Sunrise is at 6:54 AM and sunset at 4:53 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to get out there and reel in some fish.

    Yesterday’s fish counts from nearby areas, although not directly from San Francisco Bay, give us some clues on what to expect. Rockfish, lingcod, and sculpin have been active in the coastal waters. For example, boats out of Half Moon Bay and other nearby spots have been catching a lot of rockfish and some lingcod.

    In the San Francisco Bay itself, you can expect to catch species like striped bass, surfperch, and possibly some halibut, though the Pacific halibut season closed on November 15. California halibut, however, are still available year-round with a daily bag limit of two fish north of Point Sur.

    For lures, try using jigs or spoons for rockfish and lingcod. For striped bass, a good ol’ fashioned anchovy or shad can work wonders. If you’re after surfperch, small plastic lures or live bait like sand crabs can be very effective.

    Hot spots include the areas around the Golden Gate Bridge, particularly the south tower, and the tidal flats near the San Pablo Bay. The sloughs and estuaries between the Golden Gate Bridge and the Carquinez Bridge are also known for their fish activity.

    Remember to check the current regulations, especially for species like sturgeon, which have strict catch-and-release rules, and sharks, which have specific bag limits and restrictions.

    Get out there and enjoy the day on the water
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    2 mins
  • "Fishing Forecast: San Francisco Bay Bounty Awaits Anglers on November 17, 2024"

    "Fishing Forecast: San Francisco Bay Bounty Awaits Anglers on November 17, 2024"
    Nov 17 2024
    As of November 17, 2024, the fishing scene in the San Francisco Bay is looking quite promising. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect today.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    The tidal conditions are favorable, with a high tide at around 8:30 AM and a low tide at 2:30 PM. The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with mild temperatures, making it an ideal day to be out on the water. Sunrise was at 6:45 AM, and sunset will be at 4:55 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw some excellent fishing, particularly for striped bass and halibut. The Flash Sport Fishing boats reported catching limits of bass and several sizable halibut. Rockfish and lingcod were also plentiful, with multiple boats returning with full catches[4].

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Striped bass were abundant, with reports of 14 limits (28 bass) caught on recent quarter-day trips. Halibut were also active, with several boats landing good-sized fish. Rockfish and lingcod were caught in significant numbers as well[3][4].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, live bait such as anchovies or sardines is highly effective. For halibut, using live bait like herring or squid can increase your chances of a catch. When targeting rockfish and lingcod, jigs and lures that mimic their natural prey work well[4].

    ### Hot Spots
    Some of the best spots to try your luck include the areas around the Golden Gate Bridge, where the tidal currents create ideal conditions for bass and halibut. The South Bay, particularly around the Dumbarton Bridge, has also been producing good results for rockfish and lingcod[2][4].

    Overall, it's shaping up to be a great day for fishing in the San Francisco Bay. Make sure to check the local fishing reports for any last-minute updates and enjoy your time on the water.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing the San Francisco Bay: Tides, Weather, and Target Species for November 16, 2024

    Fishing the San Francisco Bay: Tides, Weather, and Target Species for November 16, 2024
    Nov 16 2024
    For November 16, 2024, in the San Francisco Bay area, here’s what you can expect for your fishing trip:

    First off, let's look at the conditions. The sunrise today is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 4:53 PM. Tides are crucial, and today you'll see a high tide at 9:17 AM with 6.4 feet, and a low tide at 3:34 PM with 0.8 feet.

    Weather-wise, it's expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 62°F and a low of 50°F. There might be some light winds, but nothing too severe.

    Yesterday's fish counts were decent, despite the time of year. For those targeting groundfish, rockfish were abundant, with several party boats reporting significant catches. For example, in the broader Northern California area, boats like the Avenger out of Morro Bay brought in 90 rockfish on a half-day trip[1].

    In the San Francisco Bay itself, the focus is often on species like striped bass, white seabass, and halibut. However, the recreational fishery for Pacific halibut closed on November 15, 2024, or when the quota was reached, whichever came first[2].

    For today, you might want to target California halibut, which remain open year-round north of Point Sur. The daily bag limit is two fish, with a minimum size limit of 22 inches total length[2].

    Best lures and bait vary by species, but for halibut, live bait such as anchovies or sardines works well. For rockfish and other groundfish, jigs tipped with squid or shrimp can be very effective.

    Hot spots in the area include the Golden Gate Bridge area, where you can find a mix of rockfish and lingcod, and the tidal areas around the San Pablo Bay, which can be good for striped bass and white seabass.

    Remember to check the latest regulations, as some species have specific restrictions and closures[2]. Enjoy your day on the water
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    2 mins
  • Tidal Conditions Favor Fishing Success in San Francisco Bay

    Tidal Conditions Favor Fishing Success in San Francisco Bay
    Nov 15 2024
    As of November 15, 2024, fishing in the San Francisco Bay is looking promising, especially with the current tidal conditions. Today, the sun rose at 6:49:56 AM and will set at 4:58:11 PM, giving us a good window of daylight to hit the waters.

    The tidal report shows a high tide at 8:17 AM and another at 8:49 PM, with low tides at 1:28 AM and 2:30 PM. The tidal coefficient is high, at 95, indicating strong tidal movements and currents, which can stir up the fish and make them more active[1].

    Weather conditions, though not detailed here, should be checked before heading out, as they can significantly impact fishing success. Generally, moderate tides like these provide good movement for the fish, making them more likely to bite[3].

    Fish activity has been good recently, with reports of halibut, lingcod, and rockfish being caught. Yesterday saw some decent catches, including halibut and lingcod, which are common in these waters. Rockfish are also plentiful, and the strong tidal movements should help in locating them[3][5].

    For lures and bait, it's best to use jigs and live bait such as anchovies or sardines for halibut and lingcod. For rockfish, using squid or shrimp can be very effective. The strong currents might also call for heavier tackle to keep your lines and lures in place.

    Hot spots in the San Francisco Bay include the areas around the Golden Gate Bridge and the tidal portions of the rivers and streams. The sloughs and estuaries between the Golden Gate Bridge and Carquinez Bridge are also known for their rich fish populations[5].

    Remember to check the current regulations, as the recreational fishery for Pacific halibut closes today, November 15, 2024, or when the quota is reached, whichever comes first. California halibut fishing remains open year-round, but be sure to follow the size and bag limits[5].

    With the right gear and knowledge of the tides, today should be a great day to catch some fish in the San Francisco Bay.
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    2 mins
  • Great Fishing Forecast for the San Francisco Bay

    Great Fishing Forecast for the San Francisco Bay
    Nov 10 2024
    If you're planning to head out fishing in the San Francisco Bay area today, here’s what you need to know:

    First off, the weather is looking pretty favorable. Expect partly cloudy skies with mild temperatures, ranging from the mid-50s to the low 60s. The winds will be light, coming in from the northwest at about 5-10 mph.

    For tidal conditions, today's high tide is at 10:17 AM with a height of 6.4 feet, and the low tide is at 4:33 PM with a height of 1.3 feet. Sunrise was at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 4:53 PM.

    Yesterday saw some excellent fishing action in the Bay. The Sea Wolf, operating out of Emeryville, had a full-day trip with 21 anglers, bringing in 210 Dungeness crab and 86 rockfish[1][4].

    The New Huck Finn, also from Emeryville, had a full-day trip with 26 anglers, catching 260 Dungeness crab[1][4].

    For crabbing, the best bait to use is typically squid or anchovies, and for rockfish, try using lures like jigging spoons or plastic lures in shades of orange or red.

    Some hot spots to consider include the crab combo grounds near Emeryville and the coastal areas around Berkeley. The California Dawn II, which operates out of Berkeley, also had a successful full-day trip yesterday, catching 330 Dungeness crab and 100 rockfish[4].

    Overall, it's shaping up to be a great day for fishing in the San Francisco Bay area, with plenty of crab and rockfish to go around. Make sure to check the latest regulations and ensure you have all the necessary gear before you head out. Good luck on the water
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    2 mins
  • Tight Lines in the Bay: Dungeness, Rockfish, and Lingcod Abound on November 9, 2024

    Tight Lines in the Bay: Dungeness, Rockfish, and Lingcod Abound on November 9, 2024
    Nov 9 2024
    For November 9, 2024, in the San Francisco Bay area, the fishing conditions are looking promising. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

    **Weather and Tides:**
    The weather is expected to be clear with mild temperatures, making it an ideal day for fishing. The sunrise is at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 4:53 PM. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at 8:47 AM and a low tide at 2:53 PM, which should provide good movement for the fish.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw a strong showing of Dungeness crab, rockfish, and lingcod. Boats out of Emeryville and San Francisco reported excellent catches. For example, the Sea Wolf out of Emeryville brought in 220 Dungeness crab, 10 Petrale sole, and 100 sanddab with 22 anglers on board[5].

    **Types and Amounts of Fish:**
    Dungeness crab are plentiful, with many boats reporting easy limits. Rockfish and lingcod are also active, particularly around the nearshore reefs and rocky structures. The Happy Hooker out of Berkeley had 240 Dungeness crab, 2 lingcod, and 52 rockfish with 24 anglers[5].

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For Dungeness crab, hoop nets baited with squid or crab attractants are highly effective. For rockfish and lingcod, use jigs or baited hooks with squid, anchovies, or shrimp. The rockfish are biting well on metal jigs and live bait.

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **The Farallon Islands:** Known for its rich marine life, this area is a hotspot for rockfish and lingcod.
    - **The Berkeley Flats:** This area is good for halibut and striped bass, especially during the changing tides.
    - **The Emeryville Marina:** Boats launching here often target the nearby reefs and structures for rockfish and Dungeness crab.

    Overall, it's a great time to get out on the water in the San Francisco Bay area, with plenty of fish to be caught and favorable weather conditions.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing the San Francisco Bay - Favorable Tides, Abundant Crab, and Rockfish Hotspots Await

    Fishing the San Francisco Bay - Favorable Tides, Abundant Crab, and Rockfish Hotspots Await
    Nov 8 2024
    For November 8, 2024, fishing in the San Francisco Bay is looking promising, especially with the favorable tidal and weather conditions.

    ### Tidal and Weather Report
    Today, the tides are expected to be moderate, with a high tide at around 10:30 AM and a low tide at 4:30 PM. The weather is forecasted to be calm with light winds and clear skies, making it an ideal day for fishing. Sunrise is at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 4:58 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday's fish counts indicate a strong activity of various species. Dungeness crab were abundant, with boats like the California Dawn II and the Happy Hooker reporting significant catches of up to 240 crabs per trip.

    For rockfish and lingcod, the New Sea Angler out of Bodega Bay reported 210 rockfish and 2 lingcod, while the Happy Hooker from Berkeley caught 52 rockfish and 2 lingcod.

    Pacific halibut are still in season until November 15, or until the quota is reached, with a daily bag limit of one fish and no minimum size limit. California halibut fishing remains open year-round, with a daily bag limit of two fish north of Point Sur.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For rockfish and lingcod, using live bait such as anchovies or sardines is highly effective. Jigs and lures like the P-line Laser Minnow or the Salas 7X jig can also produce good results.

    For Dungeness crab, crab pots baited with squid or fish guts are the way to go.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots for rockfish and lingcod is the area around the Farallon Islands, where the New Sea Angler has been having success. For Dungeness crab, the waters off Berkeley and Emeryville have been productive, as seen from the catches of the California Dawn II and the New Huck Finn.

    If you're targeting Pacific halibut, the areas around the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Pablo Bay have been known to yield good catches.

    Overall, it's a great day to get out on the water and enjoy the fishing in the San Francisco Bay.
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    2 mins