It looks like the herring are moving in to spawn. This school entered the bay a couple days back but is probably a week or better away from spawning. Herring are notoriously lockjawed pre-spawn, but once they start letting loose they're very catchable. There way be some critters that eat herring following them.
That's one I am wanting to target. I want some pickled herring on hand badly. Not to mention ling bait...
ReplyDeleteIt looks like there's either a spaceship or a big vessel stuck on the sandbar you might want to check out Willy.
ReplyDeleteWilly - I have never tried to catch herring. Where should I try? Eelgrass line? Near Lawsons or further in the bay?
ReplyDeleteThanks
Farther in near Marshall is usually where they'll spawn. They probably won't do it until after Christmas. If you want to try it in San Francisco Bay your best bet is to join Coastside Fishing Club and check their herring reports. The best way to catch is be there when they're biting and you can get up to the minute herring info on there. Worth the price of admission.
DeleteCan you catch them with sabiki? Add bits of bait?
DeleteWilly: Any chance of WSB lurking about?
ReplyDeleteWilly: Any chance of WSB lurking about?
ReplyDeleteI would guess that there's a chance but it's not a good chance. That water is frigid. That said, there were a few caught last April in 50 degree water, so while unlikely it is possible.
DeleteIf anyone is wise in the ways of catching herring and wants to give it a shot on Tomales Bay, let me know. Have Boston Whaler and a couple of throw nets, will travel. wrybread@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI'll be trying it in the next few days. The 23rd for sure. I'll let you know how successful I will be.
DeleteAre the herring biting sabiki rigs? Is that a good way to catch them?
ReplyDeleteany schools still around?
ReplyDelete