19-06-2007, 04:10 PM
Quote:Blue Whales and Humboldt Squid Invade Southern California
Thursday, June 14, 2007
By Ambrosia Sarabia
Quite a Catch - A customer aboard a charter of Dana Wharf Sportsfishing and Whale Watching caught a Humboldt squid during one of the daily twilight trips. Humboldt squid have been in abundance off the California coast. The squid are known for their aggressive behavior and large size.
Photo by: Reel Fun Capt. Frank photo
There must be something in the water.
Large numbers of blue whales and Humboldt squid have been seen off the California coast in the past few weeks, exciting whale watchers and anglers alike.
"Our phones have been ringing," said Doug Vernand, owner of Channel Islands Sportfishing in Oxnard. "People are starting to catch on."
This is the first year in memory that jumbo Humboldt squid have flourished during summer off Orange County, and recreational anglers are starting to gather their rods and hit the water.
"They love it. Everyone is just having a blast," Vernand said.
This is also the first time Humboldt squid have been seen in abundance off the Channel Islands. During a May 3 fishing trip with Channel Islands Sportfishing, 15 anglers brought home 165 of the invertebrates. And there are plenty left.
Ventura, San Pedro and Dana Point are a few of the other harbors where the color-changing squid have also been seen in past weeks.
"In 2006, we had about a week of them; but the last time we saw big numbers was in 2005," said Donna Kalez, manager of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching.
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