The Holidays mean it’s time to sail-abrate, so let’s talk about decorating your boat so you can sleigh all day. Your neighborhood boat-decorating helper elf has arrived. Follow these simple tips when decorating your boat for your local holiday boat parade. P. 20
World Cetacean Alliance. P. 20
The three-year pilot project launched by the port district and eco-engineering company ECOncrete will demonstrate and study a new design of ECOncrete’s interlocking Coastalock Tide Pool Armor in two different locations on Harbor Island, a man-made peninsula only a few hundred feet wide. P. 11
Are anglers and fishermen the same thing? It depends on who you ask, but technically the answer is no; they are not the same.
All angling is fishing, but not all fishing is angling. Dictionary.com defines the noun “angler” as “a person who fishes with a hook and a line.” Anglers are distinguished by the fact that they fish with metal hooks and fish recreationally and often release the fish they catch. The Old English term “angle” defines a modern-day fishhook, and the act of fishing with an angle is called, you guessed it, angling. Angling is a technique that is only used with a rod, reel, and a hook- no other equipment. This makes sense as to why the deep-sea creature is called an Anglerfish since the species has a dorsal spine that protrudes above its mouth and looks like a fishing pole. However, the species was named after the angler, not the other way around.
On the other hand, Dictionary.com defines the noun “fisherman” as “a person who fishes, whether for profit or pleasure.”
Angling is a style of fishing that uses an “angle” which is fishhook.
So, while the words are basically interchangeable, the minor difference is that
“fisherman/fishing” can mean commercial or recreational fishing with nets, bow fishing, traps, hook, line, and techniques
and methods in all sorts of fashion. While angling/angler are specific to using hook and line.
By: KATHERINE M. CLEMENTS
“I saw three ships come sailing in On Christmas day, on Christmas day; I saw three ships come sailing in On Christmas day in the morning.”
The classic Christmas carol, “I Saw Three Ships,” is an English carol dating all the way back to the 17th century, thought to be written in Derbyshire– a ceremonial county in the East
Midlands of England but was also published by English lawyer and antiquarian, William Sandys in 1833. Sandys’ lyrics are the most recognized, and his song features nine verses. Sometimes referred to as “I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In,” the song is thought to be traditionally known as “As I Sat on a Sunny Bank” and was particularly popular in Cornwall.
The original text refers to three ships sailing to Bethlehem, even though the Dead Sea was the closest body of water, roughly 20 miles away. The suggestion of these three ships is be-
lieved to have derived from the three ships that held the alleged remains of the three kings of the nativity during the 12th century.
A 19th-century version titled “I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing by On New Year’s Day” stated that three beautiful women were on the ship at a wedding conducted on New Year’s Day.
Martin Shaw wrote an arrangement featured in The Oxford Book of Carols, and Sir David Willcocks’ song arrangement can be found in The Carols for Choirs carol books.
DANA POINT — Together, Paramount and Nickelodeon have decided to launch SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change, an initiative to help fund global clean-up work, promote sustainable products and educate millions of SpongeBob fans on how they can help protect the undersea home of all creatures. In addition, the eco-responsible apparel company, Waterlust, has partnered with Operation Sea Change by creating a line of SpongeBob SquarePants’s Bikini Bottom athletic apparel to assist in the global initiative to protect the home of the beloved sponge.
SpongeBob is a character created by marine biologist Stephen Hillenburg, who worked as an educator at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point. Hillenburg created the character to educate children about the ocean. The SpongeBob collection is available for purchase at the Ocean Institute, and 10 percent of the proceeds from the collection will go to the Ocean Institute.
For more information on the project or to purchase the apparel online, please visit https://waterlust.com/collections/ spongebob.
SAN DIEGO — On Nov. 18, the Port of San Diego announced that the 41st Annual Day at the Docks event will take place on March 19, 2023.
After a three-year pandemic-fueled hiatus, the event has returned. Day at the Docks 2023 promises the opportunity to meet San Diego’s angling public. Marking the start of San Diego’s spring saltwater fishing season, Day at the Docks will jumpstart the 2023 season.
Exhibitor packages are available in two formats— a fillable pdf file and an online registration form. Those interested in signing up with the Online Exhibitor Application can follow the link below, complete the fields and send it back to the Port of San Diego by hitting the submit button. This form will allow you to make a payment by credit card https://form.jotform. com/200715555144147. On the application, please include your company information, links to your website, Facebook page, and other social media sites you are active on.
To take full advantage of the event’s promotional value, The San Diego Sportfishing Council invites participants to consider becoming an Advertiser, Sponsor, or Sponsoring Exhibitor. The fee is $100, and your company will be included on the San Diego Sportfishing Council website and its social media.
If you have any difficulties with your application or questions regarding the event, please call Peggy Couvrette at (619) 846-4210 or the office (619) 234-8793.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced on Nov. 18 the reopening of many of its license sales offices following their closure in 2020 to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Hunters, anglers, and other public members can once again visit CDFW sales offices to purchase hunting and fishing licenses, tags, report cards, hunt applications, land passes, Warden Stamps, and other CDFW offerings. In addition, customer service representatives are available once again in-person to answer questions.
CDFW’s six license sales offices are located in Eureka, Rancho Cordova,
Fairfield, Stockton, Fresno, and San Diego. Locations and hours are available on CDFW’s website. You can also purchase CDFW licenses, permits, tags, and other entitlements through the following sales channels:
• Online via CDFW’s Online License Sales and Services website.
• Over the telephone through CDFW’s authorized telephone sales agent at (800) 565-1458.
• Through an authorized independent license sales agent such as a local sporting goods store, large discount store, or bait and tackle shop.
CDFW’s Redding sales counter
remains closed though customer service staff are available in person to validate hunting tags, answer questions and provide and receive applications to be fulfilled by mail.
Following the relocation of CDFW’s License and Revenue Branch to the California Natural Resources Building in downtown Sacramento in Oct. 2021, license sales and customer support continue to be available by phone, mail, fax, email, and internet.
On Nov. 17, U.S. regulators approved a plan to demolish four dams on a
I am buying a boat and am concerned about the possibility of a tax lien being recorded with the Coast Guard after title transfers to me. My broker has asked for a copy of last year’s property tax bill and proof of payment, but the seller has not provided the paperwork and I suspect that he never paid the tax. I have also learned that the seller did not pay sales or use tax when he bought the boat, and he may not have complied with all of the rules that would allow for a tax-exempt purchase. I am very excited about this purchase, so I don’t want to hold things up unnecessarily. What can I do to protect myself?
David Weil is the managing attorney at Weil & Associates (www. weilmaritime.com) in Seal Beach. He is certified as a Specialist in Admiralty and Maritime Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization and a “Proctor in Admiralty” Member of the Maritime Law Association of the United States, an adjunct professor of Admiralty Law, and former legal counsel to the California Yacht Brokers Association. If you have a maritime law question for Weil, he can be contacted at 562-799-5508, through his website at www. weilmaritime.com, or via email at dweil@weilmaritime.com.
ANSWER: Most vessel purchase and sale contracts require the seller to pay all taxes and satisfy all liens prior to closing, and to indemnify the buyer against any claims against the boat that were overlooked. Therefore, if a claim surfaces after closing, you should immediately contact your yacht broker (or the seller) and discuss the problem. If the seller does not cooperate you may need to work directly with the government agency that asserted the claim and pursue legal action against the seller for reimbursement of your costs.
The California Department of Tax & Fee Administration (formerly the Board of Equalization) and your local County Tax Collector may seize and
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“Pearl lives in Ventura, CA,” said Sheri Bauer in an email to the Log “She loves spending time at Santa Cruz Island kayaking and watching her momma scuba dive.”
“Just another Lazy Cat Day on a[n] 80’ Italian Super Yacht in Oxnard CA!” said Cheryl Aarvik in an email to the Log. “Life is pretty rough for this 2 year old kitty.”
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QUESTION:
sell any property owned by a delinquent taxpayer. To facilitate this process, and to get the attention of the taxpayer prior to seizing a documented vessel, the tax agencies will frequently record a Notice of Claim of Lien with the Coast Guard. This is an unfortunate practice, because a tax lien relating to personal property is a personal obligation of the individual taxpayer. It is not a maritime lien, and a subsequent owner of a boat cannot be held responsible for payment.
Maritime lien law provides that the vessel and the owner are both respon sible for payment of goods and services used to equip, maintain, and operate the vessel. The vessel itself may therefore be held responsible for payment regardless of who owns the boat. A valid maritime lien may arise from such a transaction, after which it may remain with that boat until the lien is satisfied.
A tax lien, however, is not related to the operation of a vessel. It is therefore not a maritime lien and the vessel itself is not responsible for payment of the ob ligation. The taxpayer will remain personally liable for the obligation after he or she sells the boat, and the tax agency must look to the taxpayer’s other proper ty for payment.
The limitations of a tax claim against a boat or other personal property are re flected in California law. California Gov ernment Code section 7170(c)(4)(B) pro vides that a state tax lien is not valid as to personal property against a subsequent owner, even a prior notice of the lien was filed.
A claim for unpaid taxes therefore
should not be recorded against the boat’s Coast Guard title. However, as we dis cussed in a previous edition of this col umn, the Coast Guard will allow prac tically anything to be recorded against the title of a vessel, without investigation or proof that the instrument supports a valid claim.
As discussed above, the recording of a Notice of Claim of Lien with the Coast Guard has no bearing on whether a cred itor has a valid claim against the vessel, a nd a tax claim is not a valid maritime lien. Tax agencies, however, routinely use the Coast Guard lien recording system to record tax claims. This is of course a problem for a subsequent owner, since any claim that is recorded with the Coast Guard will complicate any vessel financ ing or a future sale. The tax agencies are unlikely to change their procedures any time soon, so when a tax claim against a former owner is recorded, the new owner has little choice but to work with his or her attorney and the tax agency to remove the claim.
David Weil is licensed to practice law in the state of California and as such, some of the information provided in this column may not be applicable in a ju risdiction outside of California. Please note also that no two legal situations are alike, and it is impossible to provide ac curate legal advice without knowing all the facts of a particular situation. There fore, the information provided in this col umn should not be regarded as individ ual legal advice, and readers should not act upon this information without seek ing the opinion of an attorney in their home state.
a plan to demolish four dams on a California river. They will open hundreds of miles of salmon habitat that would be the most significant dam removal and river restoration project in the world when it commences.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission unanimously voted on the lower Klamath River dams as the last major regulatory hurdle and the most significant milestone for a $500 million demolition proposal championed by Native American tribes and environmentalists for years.
The project would return the lower half of California’s second-largest river to a free-flowing state for the first time in more than a century.
Native tribes that depend on the Klamath River and its salmon for their way of life have been a driving force behind bringing the dams down in a wild and remote area that spans the California and Oregon border. Besides unforeseen complications, Oregon, California, and the entity formed to oversee the project will accept the license transfer and could begin dam removal as early as the summer of next year.
The dams produce less than two percent of PacifiCorp’s power generation, one of the U.S.’s largest privately held transmission systems within the western
Energy Imbalance Market — enough to power about 70,000 homes when running at total capacity, according to Bob Gravely, spokesperson for the utility. But they often run at a much lower capacity because of low water in the river and other issues. As a result, according to Gravely, the agreement that paved the way for the Nov. 17 vote was ultimately a business decision.
PacifiCorp would have had to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in fish ladders, fish screens, and other conservation upgrades under environmental regulations that were not in place when the dams were first built. But with the deal’s approval, the utility’s cost is capped at $200 million, with another $250 million from a California voter-approved water bond.
The order’s approval to surrender the dams’ operating license is the foundation of the most ambitious salmon restoration plan in history. The project’s scope is measured by the number of dams and the amount of river habitat that would reopen to salmon — making it the largest of its kind in the world, according to Amy Souers Kober, spokesperson for American Rivers, which oversees dam removals and is a supporter for river restoration.
According to Kober, more than 300 miles of salmon habitat in the Klamath River and its tributaries would benefit.
Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern Open for Brunch Saturday & Sunday
Pier 32 Waterfront Grill Open for Brunch Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Point Loma Marina, 4980 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92106 619.718.6260 / pointlomamarina.com Pier 32 Marina, 3201 Marina Way, National City, CA 91950 619.477.3232 / pier32marina.com
By: CAPT. PAT RAINS
In my previous column, we start ed from Los Cabos and poked into 11 g ood little cruising spots while round ing the bulge of Baja’s East Cape region. Then transited the San Lorenzo Channel, which lies south of the Islas Espiritu San tos, to finally arrive at the La Paz Chan nel entrance.
The only way any boat can sail into La Paz is through this fairly narrow, 3.5 n.m. long channel. Starting from just southeast of the Punta Prieta headland, the L a Paz Channel runs close east along side a mostly submerged reef composed o f rock, coral heads, and sandbanks. Along the channel’s west side, the cac tus and scrub-covered hills rise steep ly— navigable widths inside the chan nel range from 70 to 175 yards. Depths at mid-channel vary from 18 to 28 feet, yet it’s wise to hand steer and keep an eye on the depth sounder because this channel shoals quickly along its loosely marked edges.
O n the south side of Punta Prieta, we slowly swing just south of two Pemex offshore mooring buoys and, more im portantly, their slightly submerged shore cables. Then when we swing back north east– here’s what we see ashore off our b ow: (1.) the legendary Bercovich Boat Yard with its many client boats moored or anchored out, some right in our way, and (2.) the tall breakwater entrance (400 feet wide) into Marina CostaBaja’s first of two yacht basins, including their high ly visible Pemex fuel dock. Being so close t o open water, Marina CostaBaja’s 250 full-service slips are popular with sport fishers that head out early and with mega yachts thanks to their 200-foot slips.
From that crossroad, with binocu lars, we scan to starboard to identify the first two pairs of channel buoys, reds, and greens, with the precious 180-yard gap between them. We aim for the middle of the gap and, boom, we’re in. Initially, the channel angles sharply south, straight ening out and showing us several pretty beaches, water parks, and hotels to port. To starboard is the 3.25 n.m. long barri er reef.
A t 1.85 n.m. down the channel, a quick jog to port takes us inside a nar rower lighted breakwater channel that parallels the main La Paz Channel. This forms the yacht basin for Marina Pal mira , but about 300 feet in, on the port side is a launch ramp for Atalanta Boat Yard, a small dry-storage yard with DIY capabilities.
Past that ramp, we enter Marina Pal mira’s yacht basin with 180 full-service slips. Its fuel dock is hard to port. Shops and eateries line the basin’s shoreside close to the busy (noisy) highway. (Read ing below, we’ll look at the rest of the ma rinas and boat yards located within La Paz Harbor itself.)
The main La Paz Channel contin ues south along the outside of Palmira’s breakwater for about a third of a mile,
then the channel widens and begins its gradual curve southwest for another 1.4 n.m. The barrier reef to starboard merg es with the El Mogote Peninsula, a huge fl at peninsula that stretches east-west, forming La Paz Harbor’s northern bar rier wall. Looking about a mile off to the w est, we see a cluster of 5-story highrise buildings on El Mogote. Mud shoals paralleling El Mogote’s south side are breached by only a few unmarked cross ing channels.
The main buoyed and dredged part of La Paz Channel widens here and, to port, could take us alongside the Muelle Fiscal, the big black-and-white striped concrete pier, an unmistakable nautical landmark at the heart of downtown La Paz.
During cruising season, 200 or more yachts will be swinging in the har bor’s most popular downtown anchor age areas. A string of migrating shoals b etween unmarked channels and an choring patches don’t seriously deter a ll manner of maritime traffic (pangas, shrimpers, excursion boats) from zoom ing through this next 1-mile length of La Paz Harbor. It encompasses two free an chorage patches (free except for a modest A PI fee), three more marinas, three more boat yards, and the Mexican Navy docks.
Looking first at where to anchor out, what’s known as the El Mogote an chorage runs about 5,000 feet along the curving south shore of El Mogote Peninsula. This is usually the quiet er anchorage, but it’s farther to dinghy across to downtown.
The Malecon anchorage starts at the Muelle Fiscal and runs about 4,500 feet along the downtown harbor beach and stands off the next two marinas, ending off the west end of the Navy base. Malecon anchorage is handier for those who frequently dinghy back and forth to the downtown. It follows the busy water front street known as the Malecon. The A PI office that collects weekly anchoring fees is on the Muelle Fiscal, with windows overlooking both anchorages.
“The La Paz Waltz” is a dizzy dance that anchored boats perform whenev er the max 3-knot tidal current flows a gainst the wind direction. Or in no wind, the current affects each hull con figuration differently. It’s almost impos sible to allow ample swinging room, so some boats spin and kiss lightly.
We’ve already checked out Marina
CostaBaja and Marina Palmira north of town.
Also north of town is Bercovich Boat Works, the first haul-out yard you reach when approaching La Paz, right before entering the La Paz Channel. For 30 years, the Bercovich brothers’ location has been a lifesaver for boats developing problems while out fishing or
After much talk and scuttlebutt around Dana Point, the Dana Point Harbor Partners have released seven renderings that show what the completed harbor project is expected to look like.
By: KATHERINE M. CLEMENTS
DANA POINT— The Dana Point Harbor Partners announced on Nov. 17 the unveil ing of seven new renderings and design details for the $400 million revitaliza tion of Dana Point Harbor— a project projected to take five years to complete. The renderings illustrate elaborate archi tecture that has evolved due to commu nity feedback since DPHP last released renderings in 2018. Bellwether Financial Group, Burnham Ward Properties, and R.D. Olson Development make up Dana Point Harbor Partners, who have a 66-year lease with the county, signed in 2018.
Dana Point Harbor Partners, LLC is a collaboration of three companies creat ed to operate and redevelop Dana Point H arbor. DPHP comprises three “best in class” real estate development firms, each specializing in a unique product
type. Burnham Ward Properties (BWP) is responsible for stewarding the Har bor’s restaurant, retail spaces, and all pa rk scape/green areas. Bellwether Fi nancial Group is responsible for the ma rina operations and redevelopment, in cluding the boat slips, boater facilities, d ry boat storage, day-boat parking, and launch ramp areas. Finally, R.D. Olson Development leads the hotel redevelop ment of the Harbor.
The images highlight BWP’s elevated restaurant, retail, and public spaces, R.D. Olson Development’s two waterfront ho tels, and Bellwether Financial Group’s marina. In addition, DPHP has incorpo rated community feedback into the proj ect to keep the Harbor’s legacy alive for generations. The revitalized harbor will include a mix of current harbor favorites and new restaurants to ensure the har bor’s food options are diverse. According to Christine Barnes, PR and Event Mar keting Manager for the ACE Agency, con firmation of the new businesses entering and those staying in the harbor will be so lidified in 2023.
“We are thrilled for this long-awaited upgrade to the Harbor’s 1970s-era facil ities,” said Lisa Bartlett, Orange Coun ty Fifth District Supervisor, in the press r elease from Nov. 17. Bartlett has been a driving force behind the revitalization for the past 16 years. “Dana Point Har bor Partners have the experience and ex pertise to deliver a best-in-class project, which includes all-new amenities for the boating community, Orange County lo cals, and visiting public.”
In the Nov. 17 press release, BWP stat ed its plans to build trendsetting restau rants, retail stores, and public spaces for the revitalization of Dana Point Harbor. BWP says it plans to transform the Har bor experience into a world-class dining, s hopping, and recreation destination. The project will include highly curat ed restaurants and chef-driven concepts f rom across the globe. In addition, dy namic retailers will join existing Harbor
staples to create an elevated destination while maintaining the Harbor’s unique character.
Key features of the harbor will include increased public green paseos and seating areas, multiple event spaces for con certs and activities, rooftop bars with e xpansive views over the breakwater, an artisanal-style food court with boats suspended from the ceiling named “The Boathouse,” and a boardwalk that will be
twice the size of the current one, and in creases connectivity from Doheny State B each to Baby Beach, creating one of the largest walkable harbors on the west coast.
“‘The Boathouse’ will be an artis anal-style food hall with a wide variety of chef-driven concepts catering to visi tors’ every taste,” said Barnes in an email f rom Nov. 30. “Burnham Ward Proper ties have developed this concept at prop
erties such as “The Hangar” at Long Beach Exchange and “The Mix” at The South Coast Collection.”
The Dana Point Marina Inn will be replaced with two new hotels, developed and built by R.D. Olson Development. The first hotel will be a 4-star upscale full-service hotel with a waterfront experience for guests. The second will be a 3-star more-affordable hotel providing more relaxed style accommodations for a casual stay. The two hotels will be built on the waterfront to take advantage of views and increase connectivity with the harbor. Both hotels will feature a coastal style design with amenities ranging from pools with harbor views, restaurants and bars, fitness center, ballroom and meeting rooms, and direct access to the water for recreation.
The Marina at Dana Point will be reconfigured to utilize the space better and enhance the boating experience. New advanced technology will be incorporated into every aspect of the new docks, including increased pump-out stations. These changes will eliminate all treated wood, increasing the docks’ longevity and reducing water pollutants. Public docks and gangways will create a transition from water to land for boaters and the public. Boaters can tie up at the dock to enjoy the amenities within the harbor. In addition, the guest docks will be relocated, and host increased boater-centric events. The new guest docks will be able to accommodate vessels of all sizes.
Construction on The Marina at Dana Point began in August of this year, starting with the construction on the slips. C-dock in the west basin was the first phase of the waterside project, which consists of 15 total phases. The project’s first stage was demolishing the existing dock and piles. Once demolition was completed, pile driving commenced. The new parking structure will be the first phase of the revitalization, and construction will start early in 2023, according to the DPHP. Additional information can be found on the marina’s revitalization page on the website.
For more information on the revitalization of Dana Point Harbor, visit DanaPointHarbor.com/revitalization or on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter and visit danapointharbor.com/revitalization/construction-schedule/ for the most up-to-date information on the construction schedule.
Gray FishTag Research tagged three swordfish in 2021 and the tracked tags found interesting behaviors of the fish that generally sees deeper waters. Their tagging program is the world’s most extensive cooperative fish tagging and research program that works closely with professionals.
By: KATHERINE M. CLEMENTSKicking off in 2021 in collabora tion with NOAA, the Gray FishTag re search (GFR) team deployed three Wild life Computer MiniPSAT tags to track the migration and behavior of swordfish.
GFR is an essential tool for promot ing the sustainability of marine game fish a nd increasing public resource aware ness. The program collects information in real-time, producing valuable scientif ic data directly from fishermen in every part of the world. In addition, it connects professional fishermen and angling en thusiasts with the scientific community, which is interested in relevant data.
“We work with many recreational an glers who have an interest and passion for a particular fishery and would like to know more about their migration and growth,” said Roxanne Willmer from Gray FishTag Research. “We offer tag ging supplies for tax-deductible dona tions to recreational anglers.”
The satellite tagging efforts are much different than GFR’s tagging program ef forts. First, the highly technical satellite t ags are extremely costly, and you must have the proper software to analyze the data collected. The research team deploys those.
“Our green spaghetti tags [MiniPSAT tags], that are used by captains and an glers, have a preprinted tag number that matches a tag data card,” said Willmer. “Once that tag is deployed, the tag data card is completed, and the information is entered into our database. Should the fish get recovered, we will compare the orig inal data to the recovery data and deter mine the distance traveled and growth of that particular fish and share it.”
The first tag in the swordfish series was sent out with Captain Nick Stanczyk aboard the Broad Minded offshore Islam orada, Florida, on Feb. 9, 2021. The tag w as released roughly 69 nautical miles off Fernandina Beach, Florida. This tag was discharged on Sept. 10, 2021. The 53inch, 65-pound fish was free for 213 days.
The second tag was sent out with Cap tain Chris Koulouvaris on May 1, 2021, offshore Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and was released 38 nautical miles offshore
Grand Cayman Islands. This tag was re leased on Dec. 29, 2021. The 80-inch, 240-pound fish was at large for 242 days.
The third tag was sent out on May 1, 2021, with Captain Bouncer Smith and Baron Libasci offshore Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and the tag was released offshore of Novia Scotia. This tag was released on Nov. 3, 2021. The 72-inch, 120-pound fish, was tracked for 180 days.
The tags clarified several exciting findings. The team verified that sword fish travel for 12 hours from the surface t o the depths in daylight and darkness every day and everywhere. It was found that the fish dive directly to the bot tom during daybreak and ascend to the surface at dusk. The tags found a com plete migration in the Gulf Stream to the
Grand Banks and through the Caribbean. The fish were tracked moving to deep er depths during the day when the fish moved into an area where the tempera ture at depth was warmer. The research proved that it is definite that water tem perature plays a significant role in where the fish lives. Several basking occurrenc es seemed to be correlated only with min imum temperature. There were four oc currences where the fish was basking at the surface. In addition, the fish redirect ed into slightly deeper depths during the f ull moon. These fish maintained a depth of 50-300 feet at night and lived within 300 feet of the bottom during the day due to the moon phase. Furthermore, it was found that moonlight determined how close to the surface the fish went at night.
GFR is a non-profit organization that operates an international and fully in teractive fish tagging program powered by the world’s largest network of fishing professionals consisting of approximately 10,000 charter boat captains and mates.
GFR is the world’s most extensive cooper ative fish tagging and research program. T he top sportfishing charter captains and mates power it. The GFR model is to work closely with charter sportfishing professionals. Most charter profession als are on the water more days than not and engage with countless global anglers.
To learn more about Gray FishTag, to become a fish tagger, or to track tagged fish, please visit https://grayfishtagre search.org/.
the Islas Espiritu Santos.
Now let’s look at the rest of the ma rinas and boat yards located in La Paz Harbor.
About 1,000 feet southwest of the Muelle Fiscal, the harbor beach ends at Marina Cortez, the newest boating fa cility in town. It’s a 50-boat marina in side a large floating “wave baffle” type of breakwater. The dock gate where you come ashore is near two restaurants on a pedestrian walkway.
Next is Mari na de La Paz , the original yacht ma rina in Mexico, built a nd operated by the well-known Shroy er family. With 150 f ull-service slips, a fuel dock, and its excellent location within walking dis tance of downtown, i t’s probably most popular with cruis ing boaters. On its e nclosed grounds, you’ll find the Dock Café , the Seamar Chandlery, and the clubhouse for the Club Cruceros de La Paz – a helpful group I recommend all boaters join.
Next are three adjacent and ac tive boat yards: Don Jose (also known as Big Abaroa’s boat yard) with its 100ton Travelift; then the smaller El Pal mar boat yard; then Abaroa’s boat yard (also known as Lit tle Abaroa’s) . The latter two boat yards also call themselves marinas because, occasionally, they can squeeze you into temporary dockage. Keep this in mind if you arrive in La Paz without a slip res ervation or intend to depart after only a few days.
Lastly, along this busy stretch of the harbor, we reach the big concrete pier fac ings of the A rmada de Mexico, which is the Fourth Regional Navy and Marine base. They operate all the big gray boats plus the Search and Rescue Operation’s fast craft and helicopters.
Marina Fonatur de La Paz is the last boating facility in town. Because it’s located way out by the airport, you take the La Paz channel for 2.5 miles past the Navy base, then turn hard to port into a narrower side channel for another 2.25 miles past tailing piles. This Fonatur ma rina lies inside its own secure Fidepaz yacht basin, offering 40 full service slips and a fuel dock.
Due to its more remote location, Ma rina Fonatur is usually the least expen sive marina in town. It is ideal for folks who mainly want to park and store their boat somewhere in the water, not need
ing to take it out very often. It’s also near De Leon international airport, which is handy for commuter cruisers.
Thanks to these boating services and excellent provisioning opportunities, La Paz has long been the hub and spring board into the rarified world of Sea of Cortez cruising. So, whether your plan is for a quick six-month circuit or a couple of years exploring every inviting cove, La Paz is the place to begin.
The morning net broadcasts on VHF 22 at 0800, Monday through Saturday. Newbies can check in with their boat names and get answers to all their ques tions. Boaters share news of local and distant cruising conditions, weather, fuel prices, and cruiser gossip. Because these VHF nets are always non-commercial, you can’t sell items or services, but you can trade for “coconuts;” wink-wink. You can find a ride for local provisioning, a crew position, or a road trip all the way up Baja.
La Paz is excellent for providing fruits, veggies, and meats thanks to fleets of re frigerated trucks that roll down Baja Highway 1 or arrive from the mainland aboard the Baja Ferry. Big-box stores in clude Bodega Aurrera, Chedraui, Sori ana, Walmart, etc
Recently, the CUBAR rally culminat ed in La Paz, so 30 powerboats could re plenish themselves before fanning out a cross the Sea of Cortez. The 100-boat Baja Ha Ha fleet held its annual reunion here. La Paz might be your gateway to the best cruising in Mexico.
We all share the same water, so being a responsible boater is everyone’s job.
BoatU.S. explains how to do your part.
By MARK CORKE, BOATU.S. MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTING EDITORIt’s easier than you think to acciden tally turn what should be a routine chore at the fuel dock into a first-class mess. Part of being a sensible, responsible boat er is ensuring that fuel tanks are filled c orrectly and no fuel is spilled into the water, which can have significant conse quences for aquatic life. Here are 10 sim ple ways to avoid this issue.
Filling fuel tanks requires careful pro cedures. Even if a fuel-fill nozzle has a lock-off device, don’t use it. By the time the nozzle catch has tripped and stopped the flow of fuel, you may have already sent a fair amount of fuel onto the deck and into the water. This malady is most often caused by “burping,” which is the result of air trapped in the tank or the boat’s fill hose. It escapes through the fuel fill, bringing fuel with it.
The Clean Way Fuel Fill [https:// cleanwayfuelfill.shop] is an example of a product that helps avoid fuel spills at the pump. In the event of fuel burping back through the filler, excess fuel is directed upward into the device, where downward sloping baffles lead overflowing fuel back into the tank.
Another method is to wrap an oil absorbent pad or heavy absorbent sock around the fuel fill nozzle to catch any blowback or errant spills. And always keep ample oil-absorbent pads within quick reach should something go wrong. An internet search will reveal various products to help prevent spills, but al ways look for testing reviews and do some testing yourself to be sure that any prod
uct does as advertised in your situation.
Not all oil pollution occurs while fill ing the boat with fuel. Bilge water often contains oil, grease, and fuel. To pre vent this oily water from being pumped out of the boat by the bilge pump, con sider placing oil-absorbent sheets under i nboard engines. A couple of oil absor bent bilge socks or sausages in the lowest part of the bilge close to the bilge pump pickup (but not interfering with the pick up or switch) will go a long way to preventing dirty bilge water from polluting waterways.
BoatU.S. recommends, at least once a year, check all fuel hoses for cracks and loose connections that may cause leaks, replacing any that may be suspect. ABYC standards stipulate that all fuel fill hoses should be double-clamped, so ensure that all hose clamps are in place and well
tightened.
In sum, preventing spills is up to all of us. Using a little common sense and some basic preventive measures, we can keep our waterways clean for all. But no matter which “devices” or techniques you use, “CAUTION” is always in order. With fuel, oil or grease, it doesn’t take much on a boat for something to go wrong causing a sheen on the surface.
1. Make sure that you’re putting fuel into the correct tank. GEICO | BoatU.S. receives claims each year from someone pumping fuel into a rod holder or water tank.
2 Fill tanks only to about 95% capac ity to allow for expansion and slosh ing as the boat moves.
3. Do not top off the tank. The boat’s
movement may cause fuel to leak from the tank vent, causing pollution.
4. Use absorbent sheets or pads around the fuel pump nozzle while trans ferring it from the dock to the boat a nd while filling to prevent splash es marking boat decks and leaking into the water.
5. L isten carefully. It’s often possible to hear when the fuel is getting clos er to the top of the tank.
6. Hold (or have someone else hold) a highly absorbent rag or fuel ab sorbent pad at the fuel tank’s air vent to absorb any spillage from the vent. Or consider purchasing a fu el-vent collection device that sticks on the outside of the boat with suc tion cups and will hopefully collect any fuel that happens to find its way
out of the vent. But if there is ANY question of this type of device adhering to the hull, have someone hold it in place.
7. Consider installing a whistle in the fuel-vent line, designed to make noise as long as fuel is flowing. As soon as the tank is full, the whistle stops, and you know it’s full.
8. Don’t let the higher pump speed catch you unaware. Many pumps at fuel docks fill at a much quicker rate than those at the local gas station to allow boats that often have large fuel tanks to fill faster. Also, even if a fuel-fill nozzle has a lock-off device, don’t use it. By the time the nozzle catch has tripped and stopped the flow of fuel, you may have already sent a fair amount of fuel onto the deck and into the water.
9. Regularly check your fuel system for leaks. Not only is this a fire and explosion hazard, but if fuel leaks into the bilge, it may be pumped over the side by the bilge pump.
10. Replace the gas cap after fueling, and maintain the gasketing around the cap.
By law, any oil or fuel spill that leaves a sheen on the water must be reported to the U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center by calling (800) 424-8802. If it
happens, do not (as some have erroneously done) try to use detergents of any kind to disperse spilled fuel. This does more harm than good. It only breaks down the fuel floating on the water into smaller particles, making it much harder to clean up and more toxic to marine life. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), one pint of fuel spilled into the sea or lake creates a toxic oil slick that can cover 1 acre, larger than a football field.
If you have a gasoline inboard engine, run the blower for at least 4 minutes — more is better — after filling the tank to disperse explosive vapors before attempting to start the engine. The blower and its switch should be ignition-protected and designed for the purpose.
The BoatU.S. Foundation for Safety & Clean Water is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping boating safe and clean. It is independently funded by donations from BoatU.S. members and grants. Visit BoatUS.org to learn more. [http://www.boatus.org]
This article was reprinted with permission from BoatU.S. Magazine, flagship publication of the membership organization Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatU.S.). For more expert articles and videos to make your boating, sailing, or fishing better, visit BoatUS.com.
DANA POINT — The Dana Point Harbor keeps the festivities going long past the Holiday Boat Parade with a Harbor Light Cruise throughout the weekend of Dec. 16-18 from 6-7 p.m.— the event is not to be confused with the parade. The cruises will take place at Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. The cruise is a 60-minute boat ride around Dana Point Harbor set to the tune of holiday music and a backdrop of light displays from both land and the sea. The cruise will have a cash bar available. Adults cruise tickets cost $25, children $15 (ages 3-12), and Toddlers $5 (ages two and under). For more information, please visit https:// danawharf.com/cruises-and-events/ harbor-lights-cruise/.
DANA POINT — On Dec. 17 at 9 a.m., guests are invited to celebrate a California Christmas by dressing up like a reindeer, snowman, elf, or Santa for a family fun Santa Paddle. The paddleboarding group will meet at Baby Beach in the Dana Point Harbor at 9 a.m. The Santa Paddle is a fun community event hosted by Stand Up To Trash, where participants bring their own equipment (or Westwind Sailing will have them for rent). The event is free, but a $5 donation is suggested. For more information, please visit https:// www.standuptotrash.com/events.
HUNTINGTON BEACH — Every day until Jan. 8, 2023 (including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day), located at the Huntington Beach Pier, is a Winter Wonderland. Together the City of Huntington Beach and Ice-America have set up an ice-skating rink available all day or night for ice skating set to the sounds of crashing waves and following it up by supporting local downtown restaurants and businesses by browsing Main Street. Admission costs $15, and skate rentals are $5. The rink is open Sunday- Thursday from 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. and Friday- Saturday 10 a.m.- 11
p.m. For more information, please visit https://www.surfcityusa.com/ event/surf-city-winter-wonderland-atpier-plaza/21673/.
HUNTINGTON BEACH — Pacific City, The Fire Department of Huntington Beach, and ABC7 are teaming up for the Spark of Love Toy Drive this year. The event, which takes place from 2-5 p.m. on Dec. 17th, will feature a Huntington Beach fire truck and a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus from 3- 4 p.m. in the valet parking lot.
The Orange County Song & Dance Company will perform an inspirational holiday performance during the event. In addition, children will be invited to take memorable photos with Santa aboard the fire truck. Finally, attendees are asked to donate brand-new, unwrapped toys or sports equipment to the ABC7 Spark of Love toy drive. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit https:// www.gopacificcity.com/event/ all-for-a-good-claus/2145565629.
By: KATHERINE M. CLEMENTS
CATALINA ISLAND — On Dec. 17, the Loyola Marymount University choir will perform a free concert at the Catalina Museum for Art & History from 6-8 p.m. This new tradition for the museum will be the second year it has been hosted. All museum members, island residents, and visitors are invited; registration is not required.
“This event perfectly aligns with our mission and vision in which we share art, history, film, and music with our community,” said Gail Fornasiere, Deputy Director of External Affairs for the Catalina Museum for Art & History. “It is also a great way to say thank you to our members, donors, and guests for their continued support.”
The evening will begin with an opportunity to explore the museum’s galleries, including the History of Catalina Island and its special exhibitions, Crossing Waters: Contemporary Tongva Artists Carrying Pimugna and Tall Tiki Tales: Catalina as a South Seas Island. Then
the LMU Choir will sing holiday classics.
Holiday cookies will be provided—a specialty cocktail, wine, beer, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate will be available for purchase.
Nearly 40 choral students will perform. The concert will be led by Dr. T.J. Harper, Chair of Music and Director of Choral Activities, and will take place at the museum’s Schreiner Family Plaza.
The LMU Choruses represent a tradition of artistic excellence with more than 50 years of history. Under the direction of T.J. Harper, DMA, this tradition continues to be enriched through the participation of a diverse group of LMU students, faculty, staff, alums, and community members from the greater Los Angeles area.
This is the second year the event has been held and is an effort to say thank you to donors, guests, and members.
Society are invited to meet LMU’s Dean of Communication and Fine Arts, Dr. Bryant Keith Alexander, Chair of the Music and Director of Choral Activities, Dr. T.J. Harper, and the members of the choir for refreshments and light appetizers.
Schedule for the Evening:
• 5–6 p.m.- Members of the Patrons
• 6–7 p.m.- All members, residents, and visitors are welcome to explore
the museum’s galleries
• 7–8 p.m. Concert by the Loyola Marymount University Choir
For more information, contact Kellie Costello at (310) 510-4650 or kcostello@catalinamuseum.org or visit https:// www.catalinamuseum.org/calendar/ event/2737865.
By: KATHERINE M. CLEMENTS
While we idle in the slow season, now is an excellent opportunity for you to make some upgrades to your boat that might have become worn down after being exercised all summer. Whether you’re cruising with family, friends, or solo, making sure everyone on board is safe and comfortable are the top priorities for any cruiser, and these four upgrades to your boat can provide both.
Most sailboats over 30 feet are fitted with an anchor windlass system, but many are outdated or underpowered. Having a properly sized electric anchor windlass installed on your boat can vastly improve your cruising experience and give you the confidence to explore more remote anchorages. In addition, having faith in a reliable anchoring system means you can spend time anchored in deeper waters or uninhabited anchorages without worrying about the strenuous process of deploying and retrieving the anchor from the seabed floor. An electric anchor windlass also allows you to use a heavier anchor and larger diameter or more chain than you are willing to lift with a manual or under-sized windlass. This makes resting at anchor safer and more secure and provides peace of mind when you leave the boat anchored to go ashore and explore.
Having the proper lighting in the living quarters of your boat is essential to making it feel like home when you’re cruising for long periods or if you’re anchored and just hanging out. Whether it’s the right light in your fa-
vorite reading nook, under-cabinet lights in the galley so you can see what you’re doing, or a bright utility light in the engine compartment so you can do maintenance without holding a flashlight, proper lighting specific to each area of the boat is an integral part of having a safe and enjoyable time while living aboard or cruising.
There are various fixtures to consider, including downlights, courtesy lights, reading lights, wall lights, chart table lights, flexible rope or tape lighting and more.
When cruising for weeks at a time and voyaging to new anchorages, moorings, and slips, managing the various power sources on board is paramount to making your trip run smoothly and safely. There are several options on the market with a complete range of battery chargers, solar chargers, inverters, converters, and monitoring systems. Always check your batteries before heading out, especially if you
have not used your sailboat during the off-season months.
Suppose you’ve ever maneuvered a sailboat in a tight anchorage or marina. In that case, you know that the bow and stern thrusters to spin the boat any way you need can be a precious asset to have onboard, particularly in windy conditions or strong currents.
Whether your thruster model is for electrical or hydraulic power, make sure it includes traditional tunnel thrusters, external thrusters, and retractable thrusters.
You can also upgrade to a full range of proportional-speed DC-powered thrusters. The advantage of using a proportional speed thruster is that it allows you to oversize the thruster for your boat to have the necessary thrust to maneuver in high-wind or high-current conditions. Still, you don’t have to use all that power the entire time when using proportional control.
By: KATHERINE M. CLEMENTS
On Dec. 10, the Cortez Racing Association will host the Year End Regatta in San Diego. The regatta will be governed by the rules as defined in The Racing Rules of Sailing for 2021-2024, but the US Sailing Prescription to Rule 63.2 will not apply. The sailing instructions will be available by 5 p.m. on Dec. 9 on the online official notice board. The regatta is open to all members of organizations affiliated with US Sailing. The regatta is open to all boats of the J-24 class. Other one-design classes may be considered at the discretion of the RC Chair. The Fleet Captain should contact Colleen Cooke, CRA RC Chair, at sailorcookie2@ gmail.com or (619)852-5010. PHRF classes are open to all boats with a current, valid PHRF certificate issued by PHRF San Diego. In addition, all Sport Boats must have a current ORCi or ORC Club certificate. All eligible boats must enter online at www.cortezracing.com no later than 6 p.m. on Dec. 9. To be considered an entry in the event, a boat must complete all registration requirements and pay all fees. There is a $40 registration fee for non-CRA members, no charge for CRA members, and a $10 fee for “shadow scoring” for PHRF
Ahoy sailors, last issue, we discussed affordable DIY projects to upgrade your boat’s interior. Now that you have that ability, it is time to address the season of decorations and lights. With all the bright Holiday boat parades coming up, you don’t want to be out-shown. So let’s get some decorations on your boat! Stay tuned for our next lesson, where we will discuss installing a boiler for cold-weather sailing.
The Holidays mean it’s time to sailabrate, so let’s talk about decorating your boat so you can sleigh all day. So, your neighbor to the left got the extra-large snowman with the light-up carrot for a nose. Then the neighbor to the right bought the giant inflatable Santa with a full-size sled and a bunch of reindeer. So now, you have to figure out how to deco rate your boat so that you can win that Holiday parade!
Good news, sailors. Your neighbor hood boat-decorating helper elf has ar rived. Follow these simple tips when dec orating your boat for your local holiday boat parade.
1. First, do your research and find out this year’s parade theme and relat ed rules.
2 Determine whether you need to dec orate one or both sides of your boat.
3 Determine what you are going to use as your power source.
4. Deck the hulls—decorate your boat with lights, inflatable figures, and other festive decor.
5. Test your lights—and then test your lights again.
6. Add music to your display.
7. Think small when you start, and al ways work with the boat’s shape.
8. It might be helpful to draw out your ideas beforehand. Make a list, and check it twice.
Work with the shape of the boat. For example, powerboats are more horizontal, and sailboats are more vertical. So, when you’re thinking about organizing your onboard display, work to the boat’s strengths in terms of shape. Think of the boat as the stage and create shapes to fit it.
Firstly, check with the parade commit tee or browse the parade website for the t heme. Some boat parades change their theme yearly, while others have the same theme each year. Knowing the theme will help you focus on your ideas so you don’t spend all your shopping money buying all the lights and decorations on the shelf.
Then, figure out whether you need to decorate one side of the boat or both sides. The parade route may only show off one side of your boat, so you can con centrate all your budget and attention on decorating that side. On the other hand, some parades instruct that both sides of the boat be decorated, and sometimes even decorated the same way; check with your local parade committee for rules and instructions.
Determine what your power source is going to be. Lights need power, which means you have to think about power op tions. Find lights that can be powered di rectly from your boat’s starting battery, or extra batteries can be used. Boat lights can be powered with this method as well.
Test your lights. One of the biggest problems boaters have are lights that don’t shine brightly enough when the sun goes down and the parade begins. Light up a test area on the boat, walk up the dock, and look from a reasonable dis tance to see how bright the lights are. You may need larger bulbs or stronger lights if they are dim and fuzzy instead of bright ly twinkling.
From page 19
classes. Two races are scheduled— the scheduled time of the warning signal for the first race is 11:55 a.m. The warn ing signal for the second race will be as soon as possible after completing the previous race. No warning signal for a race will be made after 4 p.m. To view the Notice of Race, please visit https:// www.regattanetwork.com/clubmgmt/ regatta_uploads/25515/2022YearEn dRegattaNOR.pdf.
On Dec. 16-18, the Balboa Yacht Club will host the 1st Annual Winter Cup Regatta. The event has applied for world sailing grade 5. This grading is subject to review by world sailing. The Organizing Authority (OA) will be the Balboa Beach Yacht Club (BYC). BYC is located at 1801 Bayside Dr, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625. The OA may in vite up to four teams. Only teams invit ed by the OA are eligible to enter this event. Skippers wishing to compete in this event shall file a request for an in vitation by contacting the organizing authority at sailing@balboayachtclub. com. Sailors must be under 21 years of age as of Dec. 18th. Competitors must
There are many options for rope lights. Spotlights are also great attention-grab bers to spotlight people in costume, sing ers, dancers, or giant foam cutouts. In a ddition, be sure to mount all lights at least a foot above the waterline so they won’t get hit with wakes and waves.
Think small when you start. You and some friends in a couple of Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, elf costumes, and a spotlight can go a long way if you’re cheerful and waving to the crowd. Give each person a battery-powered LED string to hold, and then the public ashore can see ev eryone waving.
If you plan to use inflatable displays like the ones made for home lawns, tie wraps and bungee cords are necessary. Make sure you tie everything down so that it doesn’t impede the skipper’s sight lines and doesn’t go flying, becoming a hazard on the water for other boaters in the parade.
Water is excellent for many things, in cluding carrying sound over long distanc es. So bust out your waterproof speak er and crank up your Christmas tunes. There is even technology out there that will synchronize your lights to each song, and they will perform their own show.
be members of their Member Nation al Authority or one of its affiliated or ganizations. Competitors shall obtain a World Sailing (WS) ID by registering online at www.sailing.org. To remain eligible, a team representative shall confirm acceptance of their invitation in writing no later than the date speci fied on the invitation letter. A schedule of events is as follows:
Dec 16- 1-5 p.m. Registration 2-5 p.m. Practice in GC 21 (optional)
Dec. 17- 9-10 a.m. Registration 10 a.m. Competitors Meeting 11 a.m. Dock Out for Tow 12 p.m. First Attention Signal Post-race: Umpire Debrief
Dec 18- 10 a.m. Competitors meeting 11 a.m. Dock out for Tow 12 p.m. First attention signal 4 p.m. No start signals permitted after this time
Post-Race: Prize Giving
Unless excused by the OA, attendance at the following is mandatory: (a) Com petitors meeting (b) Umpire Debrief. (c) Meeting with the umpires. (d) Prize giving.
To view the Notice of Race, please visit the Balboa Yacht Club website.
“Fun fishing on the Thunderbird
Overnight last week! We had 3 Yellowfin Tuna, 7 Bonito, 120 assorted rockfish, 80 vermillion rockfish, 26 Sheephead and 132 whitefish for just 20 anglers! We’re back at it with tons of availability on Tues. Weds. and Thurs. from 9pm-7pm. Tap the link in our bio to see our schedule Or call us to schedule at 949-675-0550.”
Spot burning is the act of publicizing information that brings attention to specific fishing opportunities— usually resulting in excessive fishing pressure or overfishing in a less-known area.
As many anglers know, success in the sport results from many years of trial and error, research, and a general collection of intellectual assets. This knowledge allows fishermen to succeed on the water and eventually discover spots they can continually count on to revisit and catch fish.
When people spot burn, they bypass this entire process. Instead, they are providing the general public with specific information about fishing spots that result in overexposure to the resource.
You might be spot-burning, and you’re not even aware. Social media has been a blessing and a curse for the fishing world. On the one hand, it provides a social network for anglers to connect and share experiences. But on the contrary, social media has promoted the sharing of the particular information that leads to spot burning.
One way to improve your social media impact, and decrease spot burning activity, is to monitor how you geotag your posts. The worst thing you can do is be too specific when tagging. For example,
rather than geotagging a particular stream or local area, try choosing a more broad tag like a state or a region.
Some areas have even developed “Tag Responsible” geotagging alternatives. For example, the “Tag Responsibly, Keep Jackson Hole Wild” is a popular geotag that allows Jackson Hole, Alaska visitors to tag where they are without giving overly specific information about locations.
Another way to avoid spot burning is to limit what you include in the background of photos and videos. Different fishing scenarios warrant different degrees of secrecy. It’s up to you to be aware of the information you include in pictures and posts and whether or not it could lead to spot burning. The main takeaway is that to avoid spot burning, limit the specificity you include when sharing your fishing experience.
Everyone struggles to figure out fishing spots and methods, but the struggle makes fishing so rewarding. This sport is a constant pursuit of becoming more knowledgeable of the environment you’re hunting for, fishing in, and the species you’re pursuing. The satisfaction you receive when you carry out this process and figure out a fishery for yourself is gratifying.
That being said, you are not alone. Many new and old anglers get stumped
when trying to find the perfect spot. However, there are lots of tools and resources to help you ethically achieve all of your fishing goals. Fly shops and guides are one of the best resources. Visit a shop or hire a guide for priceless local knowledge. Additionally, check out reputable online fishing forums or spend some time on YouTube.
But when you figure it out, be careful with the information you’ve just worked so hard for.
On Nov. 14, the CDC announced that the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, has the availabili ty of $6 million in outside grant funding for commercial fishing safety research and training in 2023.
Commercial fishing is a high-risk oc cupation. Conducting research and crit ical safety training are opportunities to improve the health and safety of the work ers. The grants, available in the fiscal year 2023 and supported and administered by NIOSH, will provide funding to qual ified individuals in academia, members of non-profit organizations, municipalities, and businesses involved in the fish ing and maritime industries.
“ Working in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, this grant program has supported researchers and trainers in the last four years who strive to make a difference in the lives of commercial fisherman and their families,” said Jenni fer M. Lincoln, Ph.D., associate director of NIOSH’s Office of Agriculture (Forest ry and Fishing) Safety and Health in the press release. “These projects have had a direct impact on safety in various regions and fisheries around the country — if you haven’t thought about applying for this funding yet, now is the time!”
According to the press release, com mercial fishing remains a dangerous oc cupation in the United States, indicated by hazardous working conditions, stren uous labor, long work hours, and severe weather conditions. In addition, the haz ards fishermen encounter vary wide ly by the type of fishing vessel and fish ery in which they participate, including t he gear used to catch seafood. There fore, safety research and training that ad dresses what works best in a specific fleet
a nd/or region is critical to help prevent injury or death among U.S. fishermen.
Currently, grantee training work fo cuses on training fishermen in safety measures, developing first aid and train ing materials, and community-based “ train the trainer” efforts with varying degrees of reach. Research agreements include:
• Assessing the suite of electron ics available for fishing vessels that c ould save lives when emergencies occur at sea.
• Improving equipment to reduce musculoskeletal injuries and falls overboard.
• Analyzing how sleep deprivation af fects health and cognitive abilities.
“ These grants directly improve the lives and safety of those working in the maritime industry where applicants re flect the diversity of the fishing indus try and clearly outline a path to en hance safety within commercial fishing nationally,” said Joseph Myers, chief of the Coast Guard’s Fishing Vessel Safe ty Division in the press release. “We are pleased to continue our partnership with NIOSH as these efforts directly support the Coast Guard’s mission to promote a safe environment in the commercial fish ing industry.”
The Commercial Fishing Occupation al Safety Research Cooperative Agree ment and the Training Project Grants w ill provide up to 75 percent of an orga nization’s costs, with a maximum of $975 thousand per grant over three years.
Interested applicants can find the lat est funding opportunities on the NIOSH Commercial Fishing Occupational Safety Research and Training Program website.
T he application deadline for both funding opportunities, research, and training is Jan. 31, 2023.
Deadline: December 15, 2022 Prints or high-res digi tal photos are preferred. email to: thelogeditor@thelog.com
fishrap.com
• The 2022 Southern California offshore fishing season is just a few weeks away from rolling over into 2023 as offshore anglers are still able to go out and catch bluefin tuna and swordfish. There are not many boats out as it seems like a lot of people have put their gear away for the winter but those that are still fishing offshore waters continue to have a shot at some quality fish.
• Bluefin tuna have been around and biting since the spring and the past week has seen near limit to limit catches of what are mostly 18 to 40 pound bluefin tuna biting for boats fishing on the anchor at the Tanner Bank. Other areas that are also located outside of San Clemente Island that have been providing a chance at a larger bluefin to 150 pounds have been in the region of the 381 Spot and the 267 Spot but the fishing in those areas has been slowing in recent days.
• Closer to Point Loma there have been occasional showings of bluefin tuna to 100 pounds for boats fishing within 25 miles of Point
Loma around the 302 Spot, the 9 Mile Bank and the 178 Spot. The bluefin in this more local zone have not been biting very well and the showings of bluefin in those areas have been on the decline.
• The other offshore fishing opportunities have been for swordfish via the deep drop method using large squid for bait. There has been a recent improvement in the swordfish bite and productive areas include the 9 Mile Bank, the 178 Spot, the 152 Spot off the East End of Catalina and the area 3.5 to 8 miles off Newport Beach.
• Private boater Ken Morris of KenDandy fished aboard a swordfish deep drop charter trip with his friends Mark Backes and Frank Backes. Morris said they chartered Freeman 34 of Bight Sportfishing out of Fisherman’s Landing and that Captain Dylan was at the helm. Morris reported that they spent most of the day deep drop drift fishing for swordfish at the 9 Mile Bank and 178 Spot region and said they had no luck until 3:30 PM when their buoy rod got bit.
• The 3:30 PM bite on their buoy rod resulted in a swordfish hookup that saw the fish come up jumping and putting on a show on the surface with a windshield wiper motion while it’s bill and head were out of the water. The fight with the swordfish started at 3:30 PM and lasted long into the dark with Morris and the Backes brothers each taking turns fighting the fish for 6 hours and 40 minutes until they were able to get it to gaff at 10:10 PM. There was good cause for celebration when they got the tail rope on the fish with what Morris described as some “primal screams” of joy. Back at the dock they weighed the swordfish which checked in at 203 pounds.
Congratulations go out to Ken, Mark, Frank, Captain Dylan and any additional crewmembers aboard Freeman 34!
• There have been very few boats out fishing around Los Coronado Islands lately but recent reports have been of good mixed bag fishing for bonito, calico bass, reds, rockfish, whitefish and lingcod. The majority of the recent reports have been about good fishing for reds and rockfish to the north and northwest of North Island in the 25 to 50 fathom depths. There have also been occasional spots of breaking bonito seen by boats that have been rockfish fishing in this same zone. The most recent
report about the water temperature around Los Coronado Islands is that it has been in the 59 to 62 degree range and there has not been much yellowtail activity found in that cool water.
Full story will be found online. Bob Vanian is the voice, writer, and researcher of the San Diego-based internet fish report service called 976-Bite which can be found at www.976bite. com. Vanian also provides anglers with a personal fish report service over the telephone at (619) 226-8218. He always welcomes your fish reports at that same phone number or at bob976bite@aol. com.
San Diego, CA Newport Beach, CA Long Beach, CA
YACHT SALES | YACHT CHARTER | YACHT MANAGEMENT
Denison has long been a leader in the yachting industry, becoming an American powerhouse leading with the highest volume of superyacht sales globally for the past three consecutive years. Providing complete yachting services, from sales and charter to insurance and maintenance, Denison is the best resource with which to list your boat. Marina del Rey, CA San Francisco, CA Seattle, WA
619.822.2715 949.791.4220 562.594.9716
310.821.5883 510.981.2021 206.686.5400
DenisonYachting.com
TOPLACEANAD,Call800-887-1615,oronlineat thelogclassifieds.com
BRANDNEWMARINA: Slips25’-75’.Private, quietharbor,closetothebeach,shopping, restaurants,parking,&more.Call714-840-5545 oremail info@huntingtonharbourmarina.com
ISLANDYACHTANCHORAGE: LOS ANGELESHARBOR.25’-50’SLIPS AVAILABLE.SOMELIVEABOARD.CALL310830-1111.
LIGHTHOUSEYACHTMARINA: 1ST&2ND MONTH1/2OFF(WithThisAd),34’END-TIE FORCATORTRI+25’TO50’SLIPS.L.A.
HARBOR.Water/electricity/dockboxincluded. Showers,laundry,parioarea.Gated,clean& quiet,lockers.Closeportto...Catalina.Berth 205-B,1300AnchorageRd,Wilmington.Call Barbara:310-834-9595.
www.lighthouseyachtmarina.com.Email barbgmarina@gmail.com
LONGBEACHSLIPS&END-TIES25’-50’: NO LIVEABOARDS.HarborLightLandingMarina, viewsofdowntownandQueenMary.Call619807-7245.Email: lance@harboryc.com
MARINACORTEZ-SANDIEGO: Stunning location,improvedamenities.10’-120’slips, endties,andsideties.30’SlipsavailableNOW. Call619-291-5985.
POINTLOMAMARINA-SANDIEGO: Callfor slipavailability.Call619-718-6260oremail office@pointlomamarina.com
PUTYOURSAILBOATINTOCHARTER in DanaPointHarborwithAventuraSailing Association.Haveyourboatmakemoneywhen youaren’tusingit!Slipsavailable.949-493-9493, membershipservices@aventurasailing.com
TOPLACEANAD,Call800-887-1615,oronlineat thelogclassifieds.com
PIER32MARINA,SANDIEGOBAY: Callfor slipavailability619-477-3232oremail office@pier32marina.com
SANDIEGOMOORINGCOMPANY: Visit our websiteforinformation&applicationwww.sandiegomooring.com orcall 619-291-0916.
FIELD: PleasecontactJoeat626-343-2823, celldirect.Willingtopurchaseandclosethe samedayThankyou.
BOATCAPTAIN&DISPATCHERNEEDED: SanPedro.USWaterTaxi.Wearelookingfora BoatCaptain.Musthave100-TonMaster (required).Formoreinformationcall310-5198230oremail jflores@watertaxius.com
HIRINGNOW! Weoperateasemi-submersible submarinetouronCatalinaislandandare lookingtohireafullandparttimecaptain.Ideal opportunityforsomeonewiththeirownboatto liveaboardonCatalina.Pleasecall 562-432-8828formoreinfooremail aphillips@islandenterprises.biz.Serious Applicantsonlyplease.Captainsmusthave 100-tonUSCGlicense,FCCandTWICcard** wedonotprovidehousing.
Newconstruction,deluxeRemotewallbed. Utilitiesincluded,A/Cheat,washer/dryer. Nopets/nosmoking.Rent/Depost:$2,750. AvailableJanuary2023. ESJT26@COX.NET
The team at Hawthorne Marine Power has a unique understanding of the wants and needs of the recreational boating owner and the engineering crews who run them. From marine engines to gen sets, power solutions and Genuine Cat® parts, Hawthorne Marine power provides a one-stop solution to keep you up and running. Plus, were backed by the global network of 500 Cat dealers, so anywhere the sea takes you, we have you covered.
