LA's Dynamic Fishing Scene: Adapting to Changing Tides and Conditions

As of October 13, 2024, the fishing scene in the Los Angeles area is quite dynamic, influenced by recent changes in water conditions and weather.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the high tide is expected around 8:30 AM and the low tide around 3:30 PM. The weather is forecasted to be partly cloudy with mild winds, making it a decent day to be out on the water. The water temperature has dropped significantly, now hovering around 63°F, which has affected fish behavior.

### Fish Activity
The recent influx of sardines has dramatically altered the fishing landscape. At piers like Oceanside, the sardines have covered the water, making it challenging for other fish to be active. However, before the sardine invasion, anglers were catching bonito, croakers, and herring. Now, the action has slowed down, except for some occasional catches of small fish like smelt and lizard fish.

### Catch Reports
From the party boats, the Freedom out of 22nd Street Landing reported 41 bluefin tuna and 227 rockfish on a 1.5-day trip yesterday. The Freelance from Davey's Locker in Newport Beach had a full-day trip yielding 217 bonito, 1 whitefish, and 3 calico bass.

### Best Lures and Bait
Given the current conditions, using whole sardines as bait has proven effective, as evidenced by a recent catch of a six-foot thresher shark at Oceanside Pier. For surface fishing, artificial lures like surface feathers and splasher lures are still worth trying, although the bites have been scarce. For bottom fishing, using squid or shrimp can attract sheephead and other bottom-dwellers.

### Hot Spots
- **Oceanside Pier**: Despite the challenges posed by the sardines and red seaweed, this pier remains a hotspot for those willing to adapt. The reconstruction at the outer end might affect access, but the area is still worth a try.
- **Newport Beach Piers**: The Freelance and Western Pride boats operating out of Davey's Locker have been reporting consistent catches of bonito, rockfish, and other species. The piers in this area are good for both surface and bottom fishing.

In summary, while the fishing has been tough due to the cooler water and sardine influx, there are still opportunities for those who are flexible with their tactics and willing to try different spots and baits.