I caught you a delicious bass...

The fog was thick as we journeyed from Huntington Harbor to East End Catalina. Captain Frederic was on high alert watch, so as to not run into other boats and objects. We were again in search of the legendary WSB, but knew our chances were slim in these cold, Winter months. We headed straight for Synagogue Rock, but instead of settling for poor viz, the crew decided to back track an RCH to try our luck at Seal Beach. Here, we enjoyed about 15 feet of visibility with sightings of monstrous Calico, as well as lots of the usual - Sheephead, Opali, Perch, etc. Mr. Calico led the morning onslaught as we each speared a good size Calico; Thomas snatched up a few spiny bugs to boot. Link was able to join us after a 5-month hiatus - his studies as a high school senior have yielded a whopping GPA of 4.25. We are hoping he lands a top-notch education and career, so he can support the crew's demanding diving adventures. The water was a chilly 53 degrees and forced Link out early. The kelp forest and rocky structure allowed for interesting finds, and some of the largest Sheephead and Calico the crew has seen for a long time. The seals made sure we knew they were there, as they frequently swam close by.

Jordan posing in his new European 7mm

Fish of the day - Calico!

Delicious bass...

Next stop was near the Quarry kelp beds. The water seemed a bit colder, and the fish were scarce, so we packed it up early and headed home. Frederic showed us amateurs how to hunt Calico as he nonchalantly loaded the boat with a big bass. He also gave us a lesson on the proper technique of filleting a fish.

providing for our families...

Zoom in and look at the smorgasbord of sea lions

Fillet a fish like a black belt:

even Mr. Calico is impressed

of the shat family...

-TJ

First Dive of the Year

The crew welcomed a new year and a new hunter into the club- Jason Crowder. Mr. Calico brought party poppers to bring in the new year as we ventured out of Long Beach Harbor. The appetite for White Sea Bass was fierce as we traveled to Palos Verdes. The crew was also anxious to try out some of their new gear Santa had gifted them just a few days prior.

Capitan wasn't planning on joining us, but he couldn't resist as he gazed upon all the guns, gear, and brie cheese. The thought of White Sea Bass and lobster even got him in the water. He lured a decent size Calico onto his spear and reminded us all why he is Captain.

Ben was the first one in the water. Everyone was moving a little slower than usual... maybe the 53 degree water had something to do with it. Here's Jordan helping Ben get zipped up in his new suit. Mr. Calico has some competition now with his little brother, but Jason better start picking on bigger fish if he wants a shot at the title.
The lobster were abundant and biting. Tommy landed a few bugs.
Unfortunately, there were zero sightings of the alleged WSB; the Freedive Hunters are beginning to think these fish are make-believe. The viz was poor - maybe 5 ft, but opened up to 10ft closer to shore. The Hunters agreed we'd like to dive this spot again- the kelp forest was beautiful and will probably yield WSB in the future. We ended our dive with Jordan's thick burgers right there on the poop deck. It was a great first dive to start off '08.

-TJ