Provided by Captain Dennis Baxter of the New Captain Pete
Updated Tuesday, August 1, 2000
The Salmon season for most of the Bay Area opened on April 15, 2000. The year 2000 season has been a bit up and down, but overall, it has been more up than down. The action has been a bit stronger overall for the Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz boats than the northern Bay Area fleet. This is probably due to the fact that the salmon have not decided to start the big northern migration yet.
During late April and May, the action was really consistent for trolling. The best action seemed to be in the San Gregorio area up to Pigeon Point lighthouse. Trolling was good around 50 feet, and overall, the lures seemed to be more popular with the fish than the live bait. Boats were getting consistent limits or near limits - even with the size restriction. Most of the fish were in the 15 pound range with some fish over 20 pounds, but mostly smaller. The only thing that stood in the way of limits during the early season was the sometimes tempestuous weather, which forced us to stay in harbor several days.
During the month of June, the fishing slowed down a bit, even though the size restriction was lifted. The fish seemed to be more spread out, and more elusive. But, the weather improved, which made for some great days out on the water. Some larger fish started showing up - even to 41 pounds caught by the Huli Cat out of Half Moon Bay. During this time, the northern boats and southern boats seemed to be doing equally well with about a fish per rod averaged over the entire month.
July has presented some inconsistent action and weather. However, the last couple of weeks have shown some improvement. Trolling in 25-40 feet of water seems to be working well in the Pacifica area - just offshore. Boats further south are also having some success with mooching in very deep water - 150-250 feet. Even the Santa Cruz boats are still doing well. The live bait potluck action also seems to be picking up from south to north and should be blessing the entire Bay Area soon. Limits are being had quite frequently, with fish in the 15-25 pound range.
One of the best parts about the season so far has been the wonderful show the Humpback Whales have been putting on. They have been ever-present since the beginning of the season, and often swim near the boat and show their flukes to the delight of all aboard. We look forward to improved mooching over the next couple of months and hope all of you get out for a chance to reel in a monster salmon this season.
Photos Copyright 1999 New Captain Pete Sportfishing