Pretty slow crabbing for most lately. A few reds and a few legal Dungeness (and probably a few not-so-much legal, too. The local warden was busy writing today. Remember, if it isn't wider than the gauge it isn't a keeper) are being caught, both by boaters and shore snarers. The tides right now make the tide change pretty much the best opportunity to catch something as the current is ripping almost the rest of the day. I heard a few reports of surfperch on Dillon Beach proper, both high and low tides producing (but if the option is available, high is generally better). I saw an osprey fly over yesterday with a nice one, but more importantly, today surf fishermen actually caught some. There were even a few more sand sole caught just outside the bar today. As sand sole are generally less than 22" long but look a lot like halibut, a few tips: Sand sole have longer, loose rays on the "frill" fin over their head. Pull up the fin; you'll see it if it's a sand sole. Also, sand sole have rough scales and feel like a cat's tongue if you rub your finger down them. Finally, California halibut have an arch in their lateral line over their abdominal cavity, while sand sole have an almost straight lateral line. Almost. The most important rule, though, is if you aren't quite sure and it's less than 22", throw it back. When you see the two together it's obvious. When it's your first fish in six hours of fishing, look hard with extra stink eye.
No comments:
Post a Comment