THIS THREAD IS CLOSED PLEASE REFERENCE THE 2023 REPORT FOR UPDATES
2022 Herring Spawn Report
Welcome back to another year of herring hunting. I’m excited to get this thread going, and I know many of the followers in this community are excited to get this started. This annual community tradition has become a fun ritual for the passionate herring hunting regulars and families alike.
It is the first rains of December and that means it is time to start looking out for the Pacific herring to make their way back into the bay. Any direct intel and photos can be email to me directly at [email protected]
Please use this thread for reporting all herring spawn. I will also be updating reports via my instagram account. You can also find new articles and videos on the newsbreak app. My newsbreak channel here.
Pacific Herring Regulations
28.80. Dip Nets and Hawaiian Type Throw Nets. Dip nets of any size and baited hoop nets not greater than 36 inches in diameter may be used to take herring, Pacific staghorn sculpin, shiner surfperch, surf smelt, topsmelt, anchovies, shrimp and squid. Hawaiian type throw nets may be used north of Point Conception to take such species
TLA Answer: Hawaiian throw nets is what we commonly refer to as cast nets, and is what is recommended on this blog. There is no upper limit on the size of cast nets per the section 28.80; however, I recommend 4 ft fo beginners, 6 ft for intermediate and 8+ for expert levels.
28.60. Herring Eggs.
(a) Limit: Twenty-five pounds (including plants) wet weight of Pacific herring eggs may be taken per day for recreational purposes.
28.62. Pacific Herring Bag Limit. Limit: Ten (10) gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day for recreational purposes.
Reference: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean/Regulations/Sport-Fishing/General-Ocean-Fishing-Regs
Here are some essential herring hunting equipment that you will need to have a successful hunt. I recommend at least the following:
I think if you herring hunt these are the two essentials you will need. A good net and a good pair of waders. The Magreel waders will get the job done and is fairly inexpensive. I think Mako nets and/or Betts Old Salt Premium Cast Net for Bait Fish with Utility Box are both good cast nets. They both have good reviews on Amazon as well.
COVID-19 Updates:
We all know how exciting the herring spawn can be, but please take into consideration the ongoing pandemic. Please continue to wear your mask and provide 6 ft of distance to other herring hunters, and get vaccinated to help curve the spread.
2022 Herring Spawn Report
Update December 14, 2021
I’m just getting this thread started, but i have not heard of any herring preparing to enter into the bay yet. I’m working on getting sponsors to this thread to help support and reward the community. Stay tuned!
Update December 20, 2022
The first SPAWNS are here!! Thanks to idlefishing for the prompt report. The fish are at ARW (Flag Pole) to Belleba Bay. I’m not sure the size of the school but it is definitely confirmed. I’m chasing down the Paradise park rumor with some photos; hopefully i can get some confirmation photos and reports tomorrow. Get your spawn on! –TLA
December 23, 2021
The fish are in the bay and roaming around but there are no active spawns happening yet. So we are staying and being patient for the larger schools to show up and get their spawn on.
For now check here is an article called “The San Francisco Herring Spawn | The last great urban fishery” I wrote that is a good read for all the herring hunters; while we wait out these fish. –TLA
December 30, 2021
There was a light spawn around the chase center. Last year this was the large spawn in January. It’s a grind to net half a bucket and most people were pulling empty nets with a few fish here and there. By no means is this a full on spawn but the fish are there; either 1) staging for a bigger spawn or 2) scouter school. That’s all I know. Good luck to all the herring hunters. Please send me an email with photos to [email protected] to contribute to this community. I am looking at getting some gift packages together for those who contribute the most to this thread or run a herring photo campaign.
Update December 31, 2021
The herring continue to spawn in the evening time around Agua Vista Park near the chase center. Here is a recent photo from TOKEN who went last night to the spawn. Thanks for the update. Happy New Year Herring Hunters. Good luck and may the new year bring great bounties for you. –TLA
Update January 5, 2022
I know you guy are itching to get on the next run — as am I. The herring have been spotted in the central bay but they are still migrating around until the next spawn. For now we just need to be patient until the next run. Stay tuned and thanks for all the herring hunters who have been actively participating and providing intel.
Update January 15 2022
We have confirmed reports that the fish are in Richardsons Bay. I’ve got multiple sources confirming their presence so i think it’s all legit here. Thanks Idlefishing for the most current intel. He got a limit of sex herring on the SUP so it maybe worth a try to see if the fish push in during the high tide. No guarantees but this is around the time of the year they get horny. If you guys on the spawn shoot me an email and i’ll update the site as soon as i got the chance.
BTW: Herring hunter of the year award is still on. i have a few prizes lined up for those who have contributed the most. –TLA
This Thread is now CLOSED
Update January 18, 2022
The larger shoals of fish have moved into the bay and the San Francisco Bay herrings spawn is in full swing. If you are looking to get into the excitement of the herring spawn this is the window to get going. Richardsons bay is full of life now from seagulls, sea lions and of course the herring! I can’t pinpoint any particular location since the fish are spawning all over the bay. Work the shoreline and keep moving to find the spawning fish.
I was on a boat with some friends yesterday and was able to land on a big run across Richardsons bay by belvedere drive. (Tiburon Side). The location is not shore accessible so kayak and boats is your only option. My advice is start at spinnaker then work the shoreline until your find them. Your best shot is to target the tides as the fish tend to be more horny during tide changes. Yesterday we caught them around 12 pm during the outgoing tide.
Please also make sure to clean after yourselves on docks or shore. This is a great experience but we have to remember that locals live here and want to be respectful of their space. Finally, Thanks JAKE for sending in this photo of his kids and the herring run!! If you have a family this is such a fun event to take your kids out fishing and get them hooked on the outdoors! (If you have family photos send them my way at [email protected] to post on the blog!)
The SPAWN IS ON! Good luck herring hunters!
Update January 18, 2022
The fish are moving faster than i can write these reports! Good job herring hunters! Let’s go! I can also confirm a spawn today at elephant rock in Tiburon. Here is a photo. Good Luck –TLA
Update January 20, 2022
I had a fun collaboration video with Fisherman’s life yesterday. We couldn’t have asked for a better day to film and do some herring hunting. Follow my instagram for the most up to date info on the spawn besides this thread. In my opinion the fish has been spawning at the start of the outgoing tide. Yesterday it went off behind spinnaker restaurant so there is chance by Noon (Today) the spawn may go off along the shoreline. I’m not a herring Nostradamus or anything haha but that is my speculation. Good luck herring hunters
Update January 20,2020
I’m going to be doing some maintenance on the comments section to tighten it up. I’m going to remove some older comments and questions that just ask for updates and reports. This way the most relevant information is on the thread. FYI –TLA
Update January 21, 2022
Here we are! The end of the first quarter and what an exciting week in Sausalito it has been. It seems like the fish have gone underground again, but they will pop up soon enough. I’ve been able to go on four scouting and herring hunting trips so far this year with good success on two trips. Time to take a break, watch a video and wait for the fish to pop up again. I’ve uploaded the two part herring hunting series below. I’m sure many herring hunters here can relate to this video. When the fish pop up we will get on them again. Good luck –TLA
Update January 31, 2022
Sorry for being MIA on this last spawn. I’ve been up north at a kayak fishing tournament. The fish are on the spawn again in Mission Bay from Chase Center to McCovy Cove. Action is between pier 50-52. Once again targeting the tides is your best bet to land on the fish. Thanks to all the herring hunters for your continued info.
Update: Update Feb 1, 2022
A few of us went out to check out the scene at Pier 50-52 in the morning . There is a school of herring outside of Pier 50 but they were not spawning when we got there around 10-2 p.m. The guys using a sabiki did a lot better than the cast net. The area is very snaggy and deep – so be careful. The size of the fish are smaller in grade too (Perfect for bait). It looks like they have been going in the evening time from what i have been hearing. Cast netting during low tide is better. ( Cast net need to to be heavy enough to sink) Sabiki around the pier during high tide is working. Good luck herring hunters.
Update February 4,2022
Pier 50 continues to produce herring and it seems to be the only place in town right right now for the fish. There are rumors of other places but nothing I can confirm. Lots of random bits of information that I need to weed through. Herring hunting is time consuming so follow reliable information will help you get on the fish. I went to the pier yesterday with a friend and we were able to pull up a bucket of fish — he managed 1.5 buckets. The fish came in during the swing of the outgoing tide around the afternoon (2:30pm), and started to get good around 4 pm when we left. The commercial fleet are targeting the fish in the evening at the turn of the outgoing tide. Good luck herring hunters.
Update February 7, 2022
After about a week of pre-spawning fish staging around pier 50-52 the larger schools finally descended into Agua Vista Park at 2pm yesterday, and the SPAWN WAS ON! I’m officially done for the year but I may show up to document the event. For those still searching for their first spawn now is a good time to look around Agua Vista. There is never a guarantee of fish but if you don’t get your lines wet you can’t catch a fish!! I’m not being Jr. DFG, frankly those types of people annoy me , BUT Friendly reminder that there is a 2 five gallon bucket daily limit. Fishing license is required “IF” you are NOT fishing off a pier. Please take care to clean up after yourselves and take only what you need. I know it’s hard especially when the fish are running hot. haha I GET IT! — Good luck herring hunters! GET YOUR SPAWN ON!
Herring Hunter of the Week
MIMI Fish Fish has donated two cast net to support the community, which I will give out later after the herring spawn to those who have contributed the most to this community!! I have prizes for best KIDS photos, Herring Hunter of the year award, and much more! Support those who continue to support the community!
Follow Mimi Fish Fish on Social Media: YOUTUBE & INSTAGRAM HERE
Update February 14, 2022
I usually don’t post second hand reports, but i got some intel that the herring has shown up around crescent city. There is a direct impact on the San Francisco Bay herring spawn because historically when the crescent city spawn starts the bay area spawn slows down. That may not always be the case but that is a historical trend. We will continue to monitor the herring spawn until March and call it a year. I am getting together packages for Herring hunter of the year and best KIDS photos. Good luck herring hunters –TLA
Update February 25, 2022
It’s getting late into the herring season, and at this point of the season i’ve moved on. However, for those still looking to get into some fish there have been some fish at Pier 38. I don’t think they are spawning but rather just hanging around. Maybe they will get their spawn on– I’m not sure.
I think Evan and his friends were doing well out there the other day in the evening. Good luck herring hunters –TLA
Update February 27, 2022
There has been a steady spawn of fish at Candle stick park since Friday. There was a spawn in the early morning and from 11-2pm on Saturday and continued today (Sunday). I am not sure if they may stay there tomorrow but it is worth one more try if you have yet to get on a spawn. Good to know they are still around and have not left the bay yet. Thanks for all those who have been providing steady streams of information. Get your spawn on herring hunters –TLA
Herring Hunter of the year!
Ok, I think this is it. I’m am going to call it a season for the herring spawn. There was a tremendous amount of community spirit as we worked towards creating a positive environment where everyone could partake in this event. I’m grateful for all those who contributed and provided up to date reports.
Herring Hunter of the year!
The herring hunter of the year award goes to EVAN! and the best kids photo goes to Fishing with Fishing with Jake! I will be in contact with each of you shortly to coordinate prizes.
Thanks again for a great year. You guys can continue to follow this blog for updates on different fishing trips I do through the year to help you guys get on fish too. -TLA
Maybe going to be an early year year.
More birds than I’ve ever seen swarming right outside the Golden Gate which normally means the biomass is starting to come in. I don’t think it’s anchovies. It happens. at the end of November some years. Be ready
crescent city run wasnt planned for me but i got a few. they were in super thick at the boat launch area. 6-9 PM wednesday march 23rd.
So much for the theory that subsequent spawn locations only work they’re way closer to the gate from the first spawn 🤣
Any news from Coyote Point area?
Tomorrow or Wednesday most likely. 🙂
Candlestick spawn was 🔥. 11am-2pm. Only kept 1 bucket, but helped a buddy get his limit. It started to slow down, but high tide was super hot.
High tide started again, Are they spawning again?
Herring spawn at Candlestick, my friend and I got our limits in about 1 hour this evening
It’s dead. Everyone is leaving. 1040pm
Belly up at candle.. nothing to see or catch 10:46
Arrived at Pier 38 around 10pm and left around 1am got 3/4 of a bucket to end my first herring season. See you guys next year!! Thanks TLA for this site I would of never tried this if it wasn’t for all the info I got from here!
If you have a photo send to me at [email protected]
No report on fisherman’s park(coyote) this year?
Where do you park at Pier 38?
Any updates? Are they all gone?
Thanks Evan for reports and being so kind for sharing. This is my first year doing herring hunt. Thanks Keith for making this forum possible. I learned a lot from both your videos on YouTube and from the forum.
I donated most of my catch to friends and family. Some friends are seniors citizens who can’t even throw the cast nets. Others can’t go because they need to take care of their families.
There’s always instigators. Ignore them and continue what you both are doing.
Just delete their comments as they don’t add any value to the forum.
Evan here:
Shoutout to Leo, Alex, Hamilton and Albert, we just all show up and had a great night.
There was a semi-huge spawn near the corner of Pier 38
Among us who casted, we pretty much got limit , it was slow at first but fish pickup at 2am
See IG for Content later MidnightMemories
If you haven’t caught any herring this year or want to try, def go tomorrow Its been producing better results and anyday will full spawn here.
I cut open 20 herring, 18 of the had eggs 2 were males.. they are all ready to spawn anyday.
Awesome, thanks for the report!
But I have to ask. I know and understand there is a daily 10 gal limit and to every ones own you have a right to fish and take it. BUT how much is enough to take on a daily basis when they are around? Is it a status, post, like, praise or feel god type of thing to take so much? lol. Not with just the herring fishery but with other fishery around our area. I mean there is sustainable fishing too. Please help me understand. lol
I have been studying the biomass for years and the recreational take has a minimal affect on the the impact of the overall Biomass. Personally, I provide sex herring to some friends and contributors to this thread who were unable to get some. Some people enjoy the comrade that comes from the herring hunt — To each their own. Some people like to post and enjoy the dopamine rush that comes from likes and validation of doing well — Who doesn’t? I like it too. If the information that people share on this forum helps other get on their first spawn I will allow it. I’ve long held the mind set, catch what you need, not what you can carry, but to each their own, if it brings you happiness. Thanks Evan for sharing your report and contributing.
Thanks for that.
Your phrase, “catch what you need”. I get that. But does one need that much ? lol. Let’s be honest, some folks are just excessive and want more and more and more. That’s what I don’t get.
Your other phrase, “if it brings you happiness”. I get that, more power to them. Happiness is the greatest joy to life. Guess they will do what they do. lol.
READ BEFORE THIS INFO IS CENSORED.
totally agree with mad man . youtube fisherman like this do not fish for recreation. they catch fish for profit on their youtube channel . more content more subscribers more money. sad fact is there are more youtubers out there exploiting the natural resourse to post on youtube channel for monetary profit this is how they make their living full time
that could be true but they also could be gathering food and bait for their family. or food to last them the year.
Not everyone has the luxury of buying fish. Fish is not cheap. Sport fisherman is peanuts compared to the commercial fleet,
if you want to complain, go complain to them.
Thanks Keith, appreciate it
This is a Herring Report page, thats all im doing, Im not going to discuss anything else
Thanks to this page, I’m able to go on multiple adventures the past few years, thanks Keith for maintaining this page every year!!!!
I hope to get more people into herring hunting and reporting so everyone can get some HERRING
LETS GET THEM SEX HERRING 🙂
Anyone going tonight?? SEE YOU GUYS THERE:)
Again and more. Haha, j/k. 🙂 Just trying to understand the logic. Within the boundaries of the law, all is good.
All is good. No worries. Let’s just get back to what this thread is about and hopefully we can all get into one last herring spawn. haha Actually I’m done but for those still interested I hope you guys can still get on it.
totally agree. youtube fisherman like this do not fish for recreation. they catch fish for profit on their youtube channel . more content more subscribers more money. sad fact is there are more youtubers out there exploiting the natural resourse to post on youtube channel for monetary profit
READ BEFORE THIS INFO IS CENSORED.
totally agree with mad man . youtube fisherman like this do not fish for recreation. they catch fish for profit on their youtube channel . more content more subscribers more money. sad fact is there are more youtubers out there exploiting the natural resourse to post on youtube channel for monetary profit
Let me provide some clarification when it comes to youtubing. Since I really think there is a lot of misconception on the topic. Are there youTubers that make money and even a living from youtube? –Yes (Very few). They put in the time, they create the content, they put in the effort, they film, they edit and they post– in short they create a value. This all takes time and they should be rewarded for it. Would you work and willing to NOT get paid? Second, on Avg. a youtube video makes about $5 per 1k views. Most anglers get about 2k views if it’s a good video, which many are not, which equates to $10 (if that); Between the time to find the information, film, edit, post, and equipment coast like gas (Etc..), most people will be in the RED. (Meaning they lose money). People are putting in well over 6 hr+ to make $10 dollars (Before tax) which equates to .60 cents an hour. This is the reality of “youTubing” for profit vs fun. I have youtube for a long time, but because i know it adds value to the lives of those who view it. Don’t knock on people doing what makes them happy. Find your piece of happiness and go do it. Yes I can censor what I want because this is my private domain which I created, up keep and pay for. We are in America, if you don’t like, you always have the freedom and choice to go elsewhere. Now go get some herring instead of causing all this YOUTUBE nonsense on my site.
So the issue of natural resource exploitation for profit is ok with you. and this is not “nonsense”
Right on TLA,
We appreciate all your good work.
FYI…Nothing at Paradise, yet?
Tight lines
Oh no, my comment and question went in the wrong direction. Not bashing on Keith or any YouTubers. I love YouTubers, the creativity, content, entertainment, education and reports on them are great.
In general posters on different social media platforms. Great, yeah, cool, you caught a load of fish. Then you tend to recognize and see the ones posting on the daily and/or several times a week. I think to myself dang how much do you really need to keep, lol. Just seem to much and excessive. I know, I know, you have a huge family and a ton of friends but just wow, that’s a lot. lol
Eat what you took and god will bless you. Do not waste any food.
Yesterday afternoon I was off of elephant rock and in raccoon straights. I marked lots of bait, Seals, dolphins, and birds were doing their thing.
The cormorants are thick at Paradise…looks like something might be up!
Alright thanks. Was anyone casting?
I was passing through and saw a person throwing a net from a boat, elephant rock was packed. but I was too far to gauge results.
Anyone been checking fisherman’s park and coyote point for herring ?
Checked candlestick park, coyote this morning. Nothing.
I have been checking every high and every low tide. No eggs, No birds, No Herring-yet
Any action anymore?
There are still some at pier 50. They’ve been coming up 5-10 every few throws 1-3am feb-19.
Pier 38 still has some. Scattered here and there, got 1/4 bucket from midnight to 2 am. Northerly wind quite hard to cast. I really worked hard for my fish, I have been out there 5 days straight, must rest tonight
We’re is peir 38
On the north side of pier 40, between Townsend and Brannon
Did he eat them, the taste is not so good
Hey anyone getting any action on pier 38 or 50? I’m trying to decide on which one to head to.
Was at 50 last night and boat ramp nothing
Nothing from pier 38,48,50…at 1145pm
Sorry everyone I wrote the wrong Pier, its Pier 38, typo
Tonight when my daughter went to bed, I decided its a good Friday night to do some herring hunting and just enjoy some fresh air
1. Checked out Agua Vista, bunch of folks gathering and drinking so I didnt even have space to cast on the Pier
2. There was nobody casting at Pier 52 so I didnt even bother
3. Got to pier 50, saw 3 guys casting but nobody was catching anything (including myself, i gave it a good 20 minute cast nothing)
4. Final stop, I decided to checkout Pier 38 since last year was hot here and I know it didnt spawn here yet because I check last week, first cast I was getting 20-30 herring, I spend way too much time posting / instagram /wechating my friends about news, almost wasted 20 minutes just answering phone and texting) I got there to Pier 38 exactly on 10:54pm ( I checked the message with my friend), I wish I got here earlier
I got a bucket and a half tonight
I suspect there will be a spawn tomorrow morning and lots of people will be there
Exact location I was casting
37.783359, -122.387529
Just checked out Pier 38, where you mentioned. Threw a Sabiki for 20 min with no luck, but there was a massive group of seagulls (must’ve been hundreds) sitting on the water just outside of Pier 38, so should be any day now…
Has anyone got any suggestion were to go today for herring
There were only few at Pier 38 last night from reports
(Pier 38 was very good two days ago at night)
Herring were caught on boat launch Pier 52 and Pier 50 (port of sf),
I see someone catching half a bucket about and it slow down.
– Evan
I was at 38 and 40 last night only 2 small herring
Thank You for your Report !
Evan here come to pier 48 right now , herring are here ! 11:03pm Friday check my Instagram midnightmemories
I don’t know for how long
Thanks for your fish
Feb 10 – no signs of herring at Fisherman’s or Coyote. Checked low tide no eggs.
Heading out early tomorrow via boat. Will have a cast net and sabikis. Will update after the morning high tide tomorrow. Starting at pier 50 making our way to fishermans wharf. We’ll have the transducer going.
Thank you for the update. Much appreciated
Update from Friday, Nothing from pier 50 to fishermans wharf. There was a biomass at the giants stadium but nothing took the Sabiki rigs. Cast nets came up empty
TLA represents!
https://richmondconfidential.org/2021/12/20/san-francisco-bay-herring-fishing-chevron/
Thanks for all the efforts.
the fact that the guest uses herring for bait and not for consumption. whats the point of this article ?????
I’ve got a 2 hour drive to reach SF today, wondering if it’s worth it. Seems like there’s been a bunch of days of activity and the herring might be taking a couple of rest days… Does anyone have any thoughts about how today might do? And anywhere I should be looking aside from Aqua Vista and other Embarcadero spots?
I wonder how it looks like around Spinnaker or Ferry terminal in Sausalito? I am not reading any but a good indication is lots of birds and seals.
Just left aqua vista. Nothing doing.
I was out there yesterday, Feb. 8…no bites on the sabiki…the day before I got lots at Pier 50. I doubt that there is much action left after the spawn on Sunday/Monday morning. But you never know!
Ya get any reports on herring today
Check the article how to fish the annual herring spawn. They list the most common locations. Check for locations that have not gets spawned. Hopefully those locations will get going. No guarantees. Good luck
Ok whats the verdict? They’ve been staging under pier 50 all week, and up until Sunday they weren’t really spawning. Even now seems like a small spawn not a big one, plus why didn’t they repeat yesterday/today if the biomass is still pre-spawn. I keep hearing rumors of Candlstick, and hopeful south bay fisher ppl checking on Coyote Pt. Then that guy said they only spawn towards the GG? Gut Instincts says that was a small spawn and they are still staging/moving. The big one still to come!
Seemed like a pretty big spawn at Agua Vista on Sunday…no sabiki action at pier 50 or Agua Vista yesterday. My impression is that they are done and gone from the Chase Center area.
I agree, we all got our fair share for the year. I am packing my net in the garage
I will be preparing my sabiki rig for next year, it was the best fun I ever had with the rig. Got to know a lot of friends! Thx everybody.
2/8/2021 5am
I got up early and got to Pier 50 around 4:30am to check it out.
Fish are still present, saw a few people there and few cast I was getting 10-15 fish,
Not much but every 5 throws I was still getting them
Commercial vessel was gone, so the sealion couldn’t have their buffet at the center, so the sealion kept chewing my net, I was only able to get half a bucket not because there wasn’t fish but was afraid of loosing my net to Seals, from what I saw on my night mode iphone, i saw 8 sealions at 5am, (there was huge action in the middle but not accessible by Pier 50) I left about an hour and went back to sleep. Also, herrings were very tiny.
Didn’t check Pier 52 (nobody was casting there)
Didn’t check Agua Vista (nobody was casting there either)
Went to check Brannan (Pier 48, threw a few cast but came up empty, hope they come back here like last year)
Didn’t check McCovey Cove (Mission Rock) totally forgot about it
Never done it before we’re should I go try to morrow I need to get bait
Are there any updates for the Agua Vista or Pier 50 today?
No reports for there. Empty nets. Be prepped for coyote point if it does happen.
I carried a plastic pipe and a thick wire, freed my net from the rocks. I lost a net last year.
hey – there was a dude in a wetsuit at Chase who rescued a few nets yesterday. Are you on here or anyone know him? Just want to send some appreciation
KC
I’d like to thank him too! He saved my net as well! Great guy! Super friendly and helped out A LOT of people.
I’d like to thank him again too! He saved my net as well as many others around me the entire time I was out there. Great guy and super helpful. He was all over the shoreline and pier.
Feb 6 Thank God for sharing His bounty with me. Limit
Thanks Evan. Like and subscribe his IG midnightmemories.
Aqua Vista was full spawn. Got there at 3:30pm and left at 5:55pm.
Herring were a mixed in sizes: 5-9″
People were catching them from pier and rocks. Sabiki were still working in deeper areas. But throwing the net was key to getting quick limits.
Is the spawn still happening at Agua Vista?
Nothing at Agua Vista, pier 50 or 52. Been here since. 11:00. Heard Sausalito had some.
Still full as of 11pm 2/7 at pier 50. Go get them. IFilled my cooler in 1hr. There was a large commercial boat catching them during the night. Hopefully they won’t take them all.
Any news if herring still around?
Yes, full spawn in Chase center. At 2:00pm, in 10 minutes got full cooler.
Full spawn happening at Aqua vista right now! 100% legit I saw video from a friend
Confirming Evans info as well. Multiple sources are at agua vista. Full on spawn.
I seen a post 18hrs ago on Facebook about herring at candlestick Park anyone have luck there
They are still here in pier 50
2/5 1am
Got to Pier 50 at 12;30am, wasnt getting much, then around 4am big school of herring came in and between me and my buddy, we both got our limit within 1.5hrs. Sealion once again tore all 3 of my nets, LOTS of reparing to do. We notice when they water started to drag is southside of the pier that was when they fish came. little movement. Lots of people left around 3am but thats when they fish started to come in.
Video on IG: MidnightMemories
Got pier 50 1am, fish started at around 3am and continued. At some point I got fish every net. Got a full bucket until net got stuck: leaving now. Fish still there, not thick but enough to fill bucket if you spend a couple hrs. Feel like this weekend will be good!
i can confirm what hamilton and others report and more…
after a late night emergency, i was driving home and had my gear with me so i stopped over at pier 50 from about 1:30~3:30am. in the beginning it was just a few fish for several throws, but then the fish moved in with sea lions behind. after that, i was getting 10~12 per throw, and pulled in 3/4 of a bucket in just a few minutes. (i love fresh fish!)
interestingly, while i was exploring a little bit here and there, i could hear that there were sea lions over near the sea walls of the “south beach harbor”, to the east of the ferry terminal there near mccovy cove. they were there from 1:30am onto about 3am, which is when they showed up at pier 50. only after they moved over did it become clear to me that that they had been chasing herring over near that harbor. so, if a spawn starts, it might be in that area instead of the pier 50 zone that we are getting them now. we should keep eyes open for that.
again, they are prespawn herring, and that means we can get them with sabikis. for those who are new and dont need/want 50 pounds of herring and wanna have some fun, i highly recommend you get a rod, a few weights/sinkers, and couple of sabiki rigs and try today during the daylight hours, at this pier 52, 50, 48 zone. i dont know which style sabiki is best for herring but maybe someone can follow up with a recommendation? of course, nobody can guarantee anything, but i believe now is the time for fun sabiki fishing for herring based on what i see and alllllll the other reports. if it gets crowded i hope the great atmosphere of cooperation and support shines through!
Late report but I went to pier 50 on Feb 3 from 1:30 to 4:30.pm. Got 3/4 bucket using sabiki. Snagged and lost my first sabiki on the third cast. Used a smaller sabiki clear with gold flash and red bead. One or 2 on 90% of my cast 15 feet out and working it back to 5 feet. Sometimes fish were on before it hit bottom. The couple next to me where using a larger green and red sabiki and not catching anything. Cast netters were not as productive as fish were deep. Good luck weekend warriors
Just drove across the Golden Gate bridge 8 o’clock on the northside tons of birds. Not sure what this means but I normally see the same activity December and Febuary.. Hoping pier 50 continues and goes nuts.
Got to pier50 around 1:30am on Friday casting my net for about 45 minutes to an hour, caught about 10 fish then all in certain sealions showed up and herrings as well filled my bucket and help new friend filled up his cooler in an hour. Herrings are still prespawn.they should be full spawned in the next few nights, so guys come out and get your fish bait or human bait. Have fun catching them.
Yesterday they were at pier 50. Got a half bucket with sabiki in a few hrs after high tide. Fish were scattered so you had to find em again every now and again but they were present. Fish have not spawned yet.
Was at pier 50 btw 130am-4am..caught 1-4 every few casts around 3am. Sealions starting to bite the net around 3am. Can’t avoid it. This is a pre-spawn, so the best is yet to come.
Also, if anyone found a DL for Dan Thach, pls let me know. I dropped it on Wednesday.
Thank God for letting me catch some herring. Feb 3 12 midnight to 4am
Went to Pier 52 it is starting to dry up. Only caught 1. Moved to Pier 50 and sea lions were there pushing the herring towards us. Got 6 more. Then sea lions bit my net. Then the herring disappeared and went home.
Got to Pier 52 (Private Parking Lot) at 11pm.
Spent an hour or so there got like 30 herring, gave it all to some new friends I met.
Around 1am to 2am, I hit up Pier 50, I walked in with my cooler, BOOM, got my limit in 1 hour.
I waited till all the sealion moved away from shore then I casted, I didnt want to risk any cast, if there sealion werent there, I would’ve gotten my limit in 30 minutes. By at the end, the sealion / seal won. tored my net , have to go home and patch it up. The fish are still here, just diff spot, dont stay at one place too long, anytime they might move in closer and a BIG SPAWN will happen 🙂 stay safe…
I was getting 20-30 herring every cast, many cast return 50+ herring they were small but LOTS!
Photos on IG:
MidnightMemories
Can confirm. Herring (and seals) were thick until I left at 6am. Pier 52 private parking (aka no hunting/fishing signs). There no evidence yet that they’re depositing eggs, so maybe they’re staging for a big spawn this week! Or perhaps working their way to a southbay spot?
I’m new to the game so any tips would be greatly appreciated. Are the herring mostly active at night or were you there at that time because that’s when you could go? I have a kayak to go out in but I’m scared of the dark😂
Steve🤙
hi steve
in the current situation, you dont really even need a cast net or certainly not need a craft to go on the water. i dont feel that herring care much about day or night. i recommend a sabiki rig (which wont always work BTW) and a trip to pier 50. in the day time, people are catching them there very well with a sabiki rig. even more than with cast nets from what i saw on monday. im not sure about night time, but maybe with a sabiki that glows they might bite? all the herring i got were prespawn and thats why they will still go for a sabiki rig. once it gets thick and they actively spawn, in my experience a sabiki wont work at all. of course you can still try with a net too.
good luck!
Just fished Pier 50 3-4pm with a Sabiki. Herring on every cast. Nets were not getting much so far
Went to Pier 50-52 around 6:30. Got 20 or so.
Has anyone checked Candlestick for evidence of a spawn in the last few days? Still hoping for a good event in the South Bay…..fingers crossed! They seem to have hit most other traditional areas so far……
Can confirm no fish, seals, or birds at Candlestick on Jan 31
Sparse catches at pier 50/52 right now, littered with the occasional smelt. Seems like the density is increasing tho, late night might be the ticket but we had to go. Thanks Evan for reaching me how to finally do a decent cast! And for the fish hehe.
Pro tip thanks to the crew out there: my cheap 4 ft net has very little weight (not lead) and took too long to sink, so I was only getting smelt, gotta get a heavier one to sink fast enough to catch herring! It also had too short a line to get to the bottom, so thanks also to the guy who extended my line with some braided line!
Just got back from ferry point Richmond 2:30pm. Spoke to a fellow herring hunter on his way back to the parking lot and said that there was no fish. No sea lions around and birds were quite a distance by the jetty for those who are familiar with the area.
monday from 2pm to about 8pm was on the south side of pier 50. it was a fun time, and i came away with 7/8th of a bucket. i was using a cast net but many people did great during the day with sabiki rigs. that really looked like fun!. someone people lost nets but i did see a net recovery as well. all the hunters were present: birds, sealions, sabiki rig casters, castnet throwers, people on the piers and docks, people on boats and kayaks, and even two commercial fishing vessels. interestingly someone from a boat said that they heard from CDFW that there was/is a huge span in richmond. i hope people are checking? also, while i havent made a thorough inspection, i believe most of my herring caught today are prespawn. maybe they ill move onto another location or will stick it out unto they actually do it.
if you havent had any this season, its not over. keep in touch and keep on the trail. you might get some!
about richmond…
i just want to clarify that i have not seen anything and cant confirm any evidence of herring. i am only reporting third hand info, in the hopes that if there are people in the area of richmond, they might be able to confirm any evidence or herring activity.
i can confirm there was a spawn on saturday maybe sunday.
lots of diving birds by the jetty, lots of eel grass with eggs floating around.
no apparent action this morning
Heard its at Brooks Island and inaccessible for shore fisherman. Need a boat. Can anyone close by give it a drive by and report if they are getting any at Knox Miller/Ferry Point, Richmond?
Was in the point Richmond area this morning 9 o’clock till 12 Thousands of birds working the South side of Brooks island rockwall For about 20 minutes That was it Hopefully they will come closer to shore Happy hunting All
thanks paul appreciate your tips i”m like you just keep on checking i might get lucky one day be safe yaw!
Anyone see any action on SF side in boat launch, pier 50, mccovey today? would have to cancel a few things to go tonight so seeing if someone has any intel. much appreciated as always!
Anyone seeing anything today at pier 50 or other SF spots? Thinking about going tonight if anyone has intel and will report back if I go!
Yeah they are still at pier 50 Feb 1 6:30pm
Any update for tonight? Thinking about going to check it out
Just check both side between 50/52, NTH
Commercial just setting his net rn next to Mission Rock pier. Several ppl fishing down by pier 50, seems like they got ancouple but slow. There’s no one throwing nets at Mission Rock
I’m at Agua vista right now and a herring boat just showed up. It dropped a net 100 yards out from the pier..
There was a spawn from 1am to 4am at pier 50. A lot of sea lion action. Caught a bucket. It was just me and one other guy named Alex for three hours. Beware of barnacles and snaggy pylons!
Jan 31 Pier 50 was slow today, it may pick up later in the evening. Be careful of snags! And you need at least 20ft of line on your cast net to reach the bottom. So bring extra line if you don’t have a net that long.
Nice meeting SF-Angler in person and also Paul !
Paul, if you see this, text me again. I don’t have your number!
Got to pier 52/50 around 10pm, between 3 friends, we got all limit in 2-3 hours, some cast return 30-40. commercial boat is out as well so the sealion was having buffet out there, they didnt really come to shore which was a good thing but probably blocked alot of fish coming in. they are here people! get out there tomorrow!
Security lady wasn’t too happy everyone being there
Exactly location where i was casting
37.772847, -122.386621
They are near the chase center right now
Is it a lot or just here and there!! Thanks for the report!!
Birds are diving like 100-200 yards out but nothing close to shore. Checked mission rock and pier 50
It worked my way from pier 50 in the morning to candlestick and back to pier 50 about 2 o’clock where I caught my limit. Fish everywhere no birds to be seen
Hey Octavio,
Thanks for the heads up yesterday about Pier 50! I practiced with my net there, trying to get it down. I’m still not good with the net yet, but the fish were too far down for me to reach with my net anyway. Luckily I had my fishing pole with a Sabiki Rig! I got another half a bucket just with the Sabiki! (From 4pm to 6pm)
(We fished together at Agua Vista Pier yesterday, before you went off in search of the Herring) Anyway, Thanks for coming back and sharing the info!
Sidney
Checked San Leandro Marina and ARW this morning. All quiet.
Went out to mccovey and pier 52 on my kayak 8am-1pm today, nothing. Very slow, they aren’t spawning. They are deep in about 25-50ft water, got lots of marks but can’t reach em with the net.
I think I saw you in the parking lot today in the morning 😊. A few people at the corner of the pier got a couple casts and got maybe 20-30 herring at around 10am. After that, it was dry. I ended up leaving at around 10:40am.
Fished Mccovey cove on Friday 1/28 and limited in 20 min at 10:30am. I was the only boat besides Fish & Game patrol. Nobody from shore, 10 sea lions working the area.
cool you got a limit. kinda late report, 2 days later
Diving birds spotted this morning (high tide) at the Richmond Harbor (brooks island) breakwater.
No fish this morning @8-10am. Some people came really early got 1/4 bucket. 20 people and several boats are at Mc covey cove. Was there 1hr, didn’t see a single fish come up.
nuttin’ at 1230 China Basin area
Tonight 1/28 Herring Chase Center Report
Got there at 1:20pm and was able to get little over a bucket in 1.5 hr, left because had work, lots of seagull and sealion
Came back later after work, 9pm.
Checked all 4 spots (CASTED for over 30 minutes each spot)
Aqua Vista – NADA
Boat Launch – maybe like 10 herring
Pier 52 (that private parking lot where it says no netting), was able to get half a bucket, lots of fish but sealion chewed my net
Mission Rock (stay there the longest) caught about 12 Herring
On my way back, bumped into Damon? (HI DUDE)
Left at 11 pm will go back tomorrow.
IG: Midnightmemories
Don’t come…. At aqua vista now. Nothing.
They are at my covey cove.
Slowed down now.
Tonight should be good.
Yup 9:23pm lots of people at pier52 but no fish right now
In Mission bay now people!! Come get some.
Nothing happening at Chase right now
Just went to fisherman’s park and looked at coyote. Nothing yet. No signs no eggs no birds
check sausalito today none , check Elephant rock none tide is very low saw tons of Herring Eggs from previous spawning, men!! where are they when we need them…………. i feel second waves good luck yaww!!!!
Thanks for the info 😊
Lots of Cormorants diving on a bait ball off shore near the new Alameda Ferry terminal. This is in between the USS Hornet Museum and the Baladium. Off shore but circling.
Will continue to check closer to high tide to see if they come to the rocks.
Thanks for the heads up. That was a spawn that went unannounced last year. You maybe onto something. I’ll keep an eye on it too.
I think it would be a good time to keep an eye on the south bay. I did hear of the fishing moving south. So the typical location of Fisherman’s and coyote point might have a chance if the fish move that way. Good luck everyone –TLA
Just checked the Alameda Ferry Terminal. Don’t see any birds. No eggs on the seaweed or rocks either.
All is quiet in Alameda this morning. New Ferry Terminal and the Rockwall, no activity.
Checked Paradise Beach yesterday around noon and there was no action, Did find some eggs on the eel grass, but not in large quantities as in the past. Looks like a small spawn happened there already. Eggs found at Elephant Rock as well.
There was a big spawn at Elephant Rock last Tuesday, the 18th. The same day there was a spawn at Paradise Beach. I’m not sure how big it was there. So I wouldn’t expect those spots to have another spawn.
Just checked paradise again hopping for a second spawn, but still nothing. Also nothing at San Quentin. No eggs there either.
Agua Vista/Chase had a lot of bird action in the afternoon, starting with a “line formation” and then a brief free for all…but then they just flew away by late afternoon. The action was at least 100 yards or more offshore, so the herring may still be moving around before the spawn…I thought it might happen last night but I don’t see anything this morning. No eggs…but the herring are out there!
Went to pier 50 yesterday and saw they put up new warning signs saying no fishing, trapping, etc. So just be careful if you are there.
yeah and it is just a parking lot….not sure what they can do other than to kick you out if they see you. You can steal up to $900 in SF but you can’t fish? It does point out that people should clean up after catching herring….I wonder if this is in response to last year’s run when pier 50 was a hot spot.
Full spawn at pier 50 got limits with in 30 min. Go get them guys! Fish on!
Take a photo and send to [email protected] thanks -TLA
Any more action since your last comment?
Jan 21 Nothing at coyote point. Probably still need a few weeks before they arrive..
I live in Pt. Richmond and can see Chevron Long Wharf from my house. The pier is full of gulls, hundreds roosting. Not sure if that indicates anything but the birds know better than we do
Thanks Anne!
don’t suppose you can see people casting nets, lol!
Yesterday there was a lot of bird action in the morning. around Agua Vista. Not much action near shore and no eggs….seems like the herring are still being pushed around the bay by the birds during the day…
Anybody out today seeing any activity? Thinking about making a run for the tide change.
Stopped by paradise park is closed till eight did not see any birds from the road. The net depot had a lot of birds sitting as well . Went by Keil cove sea lions and tons of birds just sitting on the water. The only area that seemed like there was more action which is hard to get to was on the South west side of the Tiburon Belvedere yacht club. Really no birds at Elephant. Like the man says I’m no Guru but I would guess that the biomass is in the Straits and Paradise is next.
No bird action around Agua Vista/Chase….in fact, less birds than usual suggesting that they are feasting somewhere else in the bay. Still thinking that the neap tide will bring the herring to spawn!
Took the boat out today 1-20-22, hit Sausalito, Tiburon, Paradise. Was really foggy, lots of bird in Paradise, but all sitting on the water, not diving and way off the shore. Tons of seagulls on the banks eating eggs and sea lions laying on the surface of the water, also not diving. No luck for me, but good luck to all and thanks for the page!
Went to Spinnaker at 12pm today. Didn’t see anyone pull up herring, including a boat offshore. Saw about 500 birds on and off shore at Elephant Rock at about 530pm and stopped by to cast for 45 minutes, caught nothing but surf perch. Think the birds were just after the eggs at low tide.
Nothing today 1/20. Went around Spinmaker and Belvedere for 5 hours. Just birds and sea lions
Jan 20 1:30pm Coyote Point, nothing yet. Although there were a group of birds nearby. No signs of herring
Thanks for the update for coyote point Hao. I believe there is a strong chance the herring will come back to the SF side since the spawn was weak in December. I don’t know if Richmond will go off since it didn’t happen last year possibly due to a big oil spill.
No unusual bird activity around Chase. I agree with Hao.
Anyone have any luck today?
I’ve been near Spinnaker since high tide, noonish. Nothing. There is a huge group of birds 200 yards offshore and some pelicans. I’m the only one here at 16:00.
Walked around the Spinnaker for a mile. Nothing there anymore.
Any update on where they can possibly be spawning today if they are in a run today?
January 20 – Spinnaker update 1am to 5am, just a handful caught here and there. Sea lions chasing nets and breaking some. Maybe 10 people here.
Larger nets caught more and they were deep. I got only smelts.
Perfect 🥞 casts produced results.
What part of Sausalito?
At least 50 ppl throwing nets around Sausalito atm nobody posting any reports? Looks like it’s going down again, just starting to pick up.
Seems like they are coming in during high tides. Keep us updated
Nope.. A few fishes every few threws.. Not much
Not worth the trip here.. Call it a night
Yep. Nothing in sausalito
Jumped in and found a night crew at spinnaker, 8-11pm, spotty but some lucky casts got 2-4 at a time. Was a pleasure bullshitting with y’all on the pier!
Alright Who’s ready for some action on the Peninsula/SF side? North Bay had they’re fun, now it’s our turn!
I believe that already happened Dec 27-29. Maybe a little earlier. Not likely to hit that spot again. Watch east side of Tiburon and then Point Richmond over the next few weeks.
Any tips on where the herring might be tomorrow? Was a spawn at spinnaker earlier today around 11am but wasn’t able to make it on time. Arrived at spinnaker around 4 but slowed down alot.
My guess and hope they are making it back down Chase Center for BIG SPAWN, in dec was just a pre-spawn.. i might go down to chase to give it a few throw if I get a chance
– Evan Lei
Please do and keep us posted. Would be a good data point to see them return to an area that was already hit in a season….even if it was much smaller than in year’s past. Thanks
Brandon, I fished herring in SF for 25 years, and was one of the best.
Normally the Tiburon-Richardson spawn will continue around Richardson Bay and emerge at the Sausilito ferry landing, continuing down the Sausilito Beach. Then usually you will get a tide with heavy spawning along Yellow Bluff and into Fort Baker. Nice fishing Pier in Fort Baker. The harbor rock wall along the Fort Baker harbor can be really heavy fishing for a tide or two.
If it is a large spawn, the fish will continue spawning all the way outside the bridge to Point Bonita. Hard to catch out there from the shore.
Now as the where the herring will spawn next let me give you four pieces of advice.
1) Herring do not like to drop fresh spawn on top of old spawn., so the Paridise to Sausalito shoreline will be dead.
2) Herring are not like salmon. Where and when they spawned last year has zero to do with where and when they decide to spawn this year.. Get it out of your noggin.
3) Once a herring spawn begins they will spawn towards the ocean on each successive tide. So if there is a spawn that begins at Candlestick, get slightly ahead of it like Hunters Point. You can tell how the sequence is progressing by looking at birds eating along the waterline at low water. Herring like to begins spawning at night to avoid the birds. At daybreak they will go under the docks where it is dark, to avoid the birds, (and finish having sex!)
Herring roe is a true superfood. Ya need a good recipe and it either needs to be frozen or brine to set the roe. When herring roe is fed to rats, they literally get smarter.
Herring roe is a hard roe, and pretty easy to eat for Westerners. Desalt the roe, and a light teriyaki marinade. Eat a few skeins, and you literally will not be hungry the rest of the day. Do that for a few weeks and your good cholesterol will skyrocket.
Bon Appétit and good luck.
4)
I was at Paradise Park this morning from 8am-12:30pm , got nothing, there were already eggs on the boat ramp. It wasn’t full of eggs but the herring have definitely been there (intel says people got herring on Tuesday at paradise park). So probably already done or at the tail end in my opinion.
Went to Spinnaker around 4ish. People catching off shore, but the fish seemed to be 15-20 feet away. Boats directly off the rocks were catching lots.
Headed to Elephant rock around 6. Nothing there.
I was at Spinnaker around 11am to 2pm. It was a nice high tide and all those experts are catching tons. I got some, enough to show my wife😂. Thinking of going again tomorrow. High tide is about 12:29.
Hit Spinnakers at noon had (3) limits by 4pm, soon as out going went slack the fish were gone. Moved over to Scomas and got another 5 gallon bucket full. Us guys in the boats did better then shore guys. By 4pm the fish were about 15’ to 20’ off the rocks. Paradise or Richmond should jump off next within a week or two.
Meet some great people and got treated to fantastic home made chocolate chip banana oat meal cookie.
Here at 1121pm…nothing
I haven’t seen anything at Coyote yet
Spinnaker dry for now, look elsewhere.
So wonderful to have all these community updates! Haven’t been out yet but hope to. Thank you everyone!
Are there any near coyote point or Oracle? Was planning on going out on my boat Thursday, Jan 19. Wanted to see if anyone has had any luck over there or just around Sausalito
Wide open at high tide at Spinnaker!! Got enough bait for the year in 30 minutes
Any thoughts on the possibility of a spawn tonight at high tide? I’m still stuck at work
Seems possible to me! I started at 8am and it was dead until 30 minutes before high tide around 11:30
Here at spinnakers now. Few dozen people out here but not one fish caught. Guys on boat and kayak hasn’t got anything either.
Currently dead but got a limit around noon if a 20 minute pulse just to the left of the yacht club / ferry terminal. Give it a few hours?
Spinaker spawn is wide open. Bring a broom if you throw at the ferry terminal. 3am to 4:15 limited.
Thanks for the heads up.
Is this still on now 1/19/22 @ 9:50 AM?
Thanks,
Went back to check it out this morning around 9:00am there was nothing. Couple people waiting around and a lot of birds hanging around the water and seals swimming around but no action. Went to paradise also and was quiet also
Went back to tiburon pier and paradise 9am today stayed for a bit and went to paradise and both areas were quiet. Lots of Birds and seals sitting at the water but no action. Couple people were waiting around and was casting nets but pulling up empty nets. Anyone please update if they know where they have spawned today if they are located. Thank you!
I’m hearing about a spawn happening right now at spinnaker. Please update me if it’s a major spawn happening
If you see this message come to Sausalito right now major spawn . Ferry Terminal 2:40am
70 fish every cast
Ig Midnightmemories
I got my limit at spinnaker on Tuesday Jan 18th. I had to work for fish from 2 -5 pm. Most fish seems to be already spawned. They looked skinny. I need a good rest and back at it again tomorrow.
I was there too around 2am to 3am they were abundant herring don’t have Enough room to put them just too many but got my limit in just haft hour
spinnaker is the hot spot in Marin County
12mid last night was very enjoyable at spinnaker
right on dude, thanks for helping me with my net.
My friend and I got limits in 30 minutes at paradise beach park today, 3:30pm. Slowed down by sunset, 3-5 every cast.
Your at Paradise now or the spawn is on now?
Elephant Rock in Tiburon, which is on Paradise Drive.
It’s dead at elephant rock. Here now on the low tide and nothing.
At spinnaker right now. Sea lions swimming close to shore. Survey boat is out here. Lots of birds waiting around.
They’re at Tiburon Elephant Rock to Ferry terminal.
Possible spawn at Elephant Rock! I can’t confirm. It’s worth a look. Sounds like they are working their way toward Paradise at this point. Good luck. I’ll be out on the boat again tomorrow, and will report back.
About 6-8 sea lions now, pelicans diving like crazy.
Can you throw nets from shore for these at Tiburon Ferry Landing? Or do you need to be on a boat?
You can reach them From shore
Went to Sausalito this morning. Got only 12 for 2 hours. But it is my first time to net herring. Took more than one hour to practice. Several people around got a few more (I guess 30 – 40).
Currently at Spinnaker in Sausalito. Water murky, eggs on some seaweeds. No birds, seals, or signs of the fish inside. Will check back in if we get any. Planning to be here until 10ish.
Nothing yet other than baby rockfish and baby anchovies.
They are on the Tiburon side, only reachable by boat right now.
Has anyone been over to paradise beach park today? Saw an IG post saying got some at paradise.
We were at Paradise Beach today at about noon. Nothing was there. Guys were fishing. Only a few people were throwing nets. No birds. No seals.
Current status at Spinnaker and the ferry dock: don’t waste your time.
1/16/2022 – 1/17/2022 – Got to Sausalito around 1o pm, checked out the ferry terminal but nothing saw someone just got 2 herring.
Heard seals making noise behind spinnaker and BOOM great action spawn, was getting 10-15 herring every SINGLE cast (about) . there were rarely any cast t hat didnt land fish.. seems like they’re coming in stronger. met up some new friends and old ones there and end up staying till 2am until a sealion chewed a hole on my net
Note: i fished Sausalito from Friday to Sunday so i was there 3 days (only casted during night time)
SHOULD BE VERY GOOD TOMORROW:)
see footage video: IG midnightmemories
Evan
Is it the dock behind spinnaker? I think there is a “No fishing or netting” sign there.
Yup, for that reason I didnt post this location on here, if you know it, you know it.
Just check The Spinnaker, no one here for throwing, some birds on the roof, not sure if something happens today. Or any other good spot today?
Next height tide is about 1 AM January 17 and the next one will be @ 10:37am.
No action by Spinnaker for last hour
Dead so far at the ferry and Salito’s dock. Good luck to the late shift.
Currently nothing. Maybe when tide’s a little higher.
Going out to check Sausalito now. Will update in 45.
Myself and 2 buddy boats limited out in about an hour on the outgoing from our whalers on the belevedere side of Richardson bay
Very steady action
I don’t think there is any shore access though
Lehhgooo. Good stuff today broo
Just leaving Sausalito. Ended up with about an eighth of a bucket after 30 minutes. Was casting from a random wooden pier in Sausalito yacht harbor. Kinda rough towards the end not many being caught.
The spawn was better earlier in the morning. I finished up across the bay, on the Belvedere/ Tiburon side. Pretty good spawn going over in that area.
In Sausalito right now, basically noticing the same as the last comment. Good number of folks casting from the dock and in boats/kayaks. Not seeing a lot of fish, only a few every 5 casts or so. Was able to see a bunch of birds out far by angel island with binocs.
There are still herring there at Sausalito. I got there 6:30 in the morning, tried the ferry first nothing. Then went to the dock. Stayed there for almost three hrs. Got 1/3 bucket. There are a few guys started from 3am and got limits. It is not thick at all, herring come and go. In average five empty throws then one net got a few.
20 people squeezed on the dock to throw nets. Seals stay around Checking each net. It was fun.
Where exactly? I’m at the yacht club but don’t see anything.
At Fort Baker finishing up brunch and can report no action here. Passed by the hot spot behind Salito’s and seen a bunch of empty nets pulled up from the dock and on the kayaks so kept driving along the shoreline to where I’m at now.
None in Alameda yet.
Lost my cast net last night on the rocks!
Might do some scouting this morning in Sausalito area. Wish me luck.
Hope you are in the washing you love how’s it going out there?
Alright thank you. Keep us posted.
Was at spinnaker from 12 to 3am it picked up at end started filling up then sea lion took me and the other guy who was casting nets and tore holes. So if your casting solo or small group be careful. Almost all Herring were prespawn, my guess it is will go off today in that area.
I was at ferry terminal at about 10pm. There were people casting. Caught a few here and there until around 11pm or so. Herrings started to show up. I caught some. Unfortunately for me my net got snagged and unable to retrieve it. I tried to full it out but couldn’t so I left it there and went home. I have go and buy new one tomorrow.
Yeah,
I was in Sausalito from about 3pm to 5. It was a nice day but I did not see any action. The water is low and it will not be high tide till about 11pm. The water seem to be so low because of the volcanic activity in the pacific. It’s a little bit scary because that’s how the tidal wave happens; water so low by the shore and suddenly water will come in with force, so just beware. I will probably catch some other day. Like some people here said, watch for the high tide and the next one today is like what I said about 11pm and Niners game tomorrow so I will take it easy. Good luck to yo if you are going tonight be warm and stay safe.
Got my limit today in front of Salitos in Sausalito. They made me work for them for almost 4 hours, but they’re there. I was in my kayak, but lots of guys throwing from the docks. Set for the year with bait! Good luck guys!
Same! I was throwing off the dock. Took me and my kid around 4 hours to get one limit. Was a fun day! Hope you all can get some!
I was at the wrong spot. I was at spinnaker at that same time and did not catch anything. I should have driven a little bit further. Oh well there is always next time. Thanks for the update
yes, i caught a limit today (saturday 16.01.2022) with work but it was a lot of fun. i was at the docks (sausalito) and caught a few at low tide. however, right around 5:30 or 6pm it picked up. i went from 1/6 of a bucket to two buckets from 6 to about 9. they were definitely there. i think they might be around tonight and maybe into tomorrow, although obviously i cant predict herring. i was there with someone else, until we both limited. but earlier met nice people who were generous with the small space to throw and nice conversation.
also, i just thought id remind people to clean up on those docks when they are done. it took just a few minutes with an empty bucket to scoop up water and wash off the decks of the docks. any eggs and fish stuff and plant life was mostly washed away. if not, it would start to smell and be a nuisance for the locals who were VERY ACCOMIDATING AND NICE. i thank those local residents for their positive attitude and accepting some herring as gifts!
Glad you got your limit Paul! It was nice meeting you yesterday. And thank you for washing off the dock after we left. We wanted to do it too, but didn’t think it made sense since you were still fishing when we left. Hope you get to fill your smoker!
Thanks Paul for this post. Local angler here who appreciates the effort you describe. Some may have noticed that there are no fishing or netting signs at Spinnaker. Maintaining access important. Respecting other users important–this includes liveaboards who might be trying to sleep while the herring run is happening. Great job!
Pulled up some eelgrass with herring eggs while fishing at fort baker pier. Not sure how long ago they spawned and didn’t see signs of fish.
Just came across the Richmond Bridge headed to Supercross and major bird action outside of PT Molate no time to check on it.
There were a few people catching a few at: 37.860245, -122.485165 in Sausalito. Not many but some. No eggs at the ferry terminal so I bet they will be in tonight.
I am here and walk around but I don’t see anyone casting nets. I saw birds on the other side- tiburon side.
Yeah, I guess miller time for now😊
Thank you Moon!
You planning to go today?
Paradise is quiet. Sausalito Spinaker and Ferry Terminal also quiet around 12:30pm today. No spawn visible on the rocks at low tide. I will check out Sausalito again on tonight’s high tide.
Difficult to catch them for shore today in Sausalito. Best to go on a kayak or boat until them come closer to shore. Shoutout to Idlefishing, Evan and everyone else giving intel!
It died down at 10am. Ppl are still casting but get 1 herring every 15-20 casts
Late post, too tired last night
1/14/2022 9PM – Got to Sausalito at around 9pm, left at 1:00am
Between two of us, we were able to get a limit
Some cast were good 20fish , most were 3-5 fish, often empty nets as well
should be very good today, encourage everyone to hit up Sausalito
Few sealions making noise , did check spinnaker but didnt find fish there, only at Ferry Terminal
Coordinates : 37.856429, -122.478519
check my IG: midnightmemories for photos (just posted if anyone wanna check)
What city is close to the location near spinnaker?
Today’s a good day to check things out because…. I just got a limit this morning before calling it quits on a skunk behind spinnaker. The herring are pushing in.
I’m confused. Did you skunk or get a limit? And location is Spinnaker or no?
I almost skunked but then I limited. Few throws, Heavy nets!
Congrats on the limit! Did you notice any dangerous waves from the tsunami warning? I’m conflicted on whether or not to check it out
To answer your question, I didn’t notice any significant waves in Richardson bay around 7am this morning.
Take any pictures ?
Sorry – is there herring at spinnaker? I just checked the south bay and nothing here. Thank you
Good news， where is spiinaker？
Thanks Yao for all your scouting and providing up to date information. Definitely in the lead for Herring Hunter of the year award.–TLA
Anyone out at Richardson bay?
Looked real fishy down there
Tsunami advisory currently in effect….
Lots of bird and sea lion activity here in raccoon straight this past week. There must be herring running through, but not quite as much as last year, I think it’s still early as it didn’t get crazy here in Tiburon last year until January 29th, and then it was white the spectacle.
Thank you for the update. Hopefully Happen in Tiburon this year other members think it might happen this weekend.
Thank you for the update. Hopefully Happen in Tiburon this year other members think it might happen this weekend.
Checked Alemeda rock wall and richmond ferry today. No birds or any signs.
Spawning action in Richardson bay, eggs all over shore and 500+ birds flying just off brickyard park. First time trying to catch the spawn so not sure how to read it, but seems promising! Low tide right now so I haven’t found a spot to cast yet.
That’s definitely a good sign! Thanks for the info! Hopefully we can get a definitive report sometime soon!
Show some pictures if you can, please.
Reports from Northern Cal Kayak reported herring at Richardson Bay today. Here is the link:
http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=97308.0
Can I get a summary of what it says on the website? I can’t view the content on the page. Thank you.
Keep your eyes peeled the norm is spinnaker and paradise around this time.
The 9th and 15th last year.
haha The madness of this fish continues!! I remember 2 years ago they only spawned once at ferry point in early Feb. It’s been slim pickings over the last few years, but i’m hoping for a good run to give us all some hope. Yes, folks it has been quiet. I haven’t heard much either.
Scroll down to the bottom of the comments and you’ll see a post comment section. Good luck and thanks for the updates
I read you, so it’s as good as your comment 😊
Jan 13 9:30 am No signs at Fisherman’s or coyote pt. No eggs , water was clear at high tide.
so… are all the herring dead or just the action here at the comments section?
All is quiet around Agua Vista…few birds hanging around, even less than last week or the week before. The quiet before the storm….neap tide is around the 23rd….
Hahah thats what I was wondering, haven’t heard any herring news lately
Yeah I have no idea what we are doing we need reports and comments otherwise we will miss it
I saw a you tube video about the sad news about herring. It’s about the dwindling population of herring and they have the graph showing yearly comparison of harvest which is from hundreds of tons to only about 5 tons last year. This is sad it’s not because we will not catch any this year or not much according to postings here.
The concern about the herring population is that all animals in the ocean basically depends on them to live. It would have a devastating effect on all the living creatures if they will be gone.
I just hope they come back someday as good as the good old days.
I got tired of reporting that there is no fish on San Mateo side of the bay, so I’m gonna keep quiet till we see something..
The fish has just been slow. When or If they get going. This board will light up. Don’t you worry. haha fingers crossed!
Saw a post on FB that said they were at the Spinnaker last night. Has anyone checked it out?
I was there yesterday 4:30pm. Thousands of birds about 1/2 mile out. One sea lion by the ferry. No eggs.
Not sure if this means anything, but this morning I saw on the Sausalito webcam a bunch of birding working a large area right off Spinnaker.
Going to check the alameda rock wall right now
Just checked the wall. No herring, no birds, no eggs.
Just checked the wall. No herring, no birds, no eggs. Dang
Not sure if this means anything, but this morning on the Sausalito webcam I saw a bunch of birds a little out in deeper water right between Spinnaker and the ferry dock.
I may go check things out at spinnakers tonight
any updates lately? Goign to check richardson’s bay later today
Checked Ferry point/Richmond today around 3pm, no sign of anything
I checked Sausalito , Paradise, and Ferry Point Richmond this morning around 10:00am. Nothing going at any of these places. Just a FYI. Hope we get a good daytime spawn near soon. Keep on scouting!
Thousands of birds near the tubes(101) took off and began diving around 8:45 am, a couple hundred yards offshore. Not sure what they are feeding on, but seems to be a good sign. Haven’t seen that many birds so far this season
Hey guys, any herring news today? I might have to make the 1hr drive to go herring scouting 🤣
It looks like a lot of activity right now between Keller Beach and Ferry Pt. in Richmond.
I don’t fish. But I can see lots of birds and it’s loud.
i was at ferry point just now (8-8:30PM) and there as nothing from the pier. i casted a could of few times with the cast net. two other guys came after me also. i had binoculars and looked around the best i could and i didnt see, hear, or “feel” anything fishy herring style going on from the pier to keller beach. someone else might have been on the pier earlier with a cast net as there was a wet pier in one place with eel grass as well but no scales at all. it was low tide. i heard some bird and maybe seal noise over toward brooks island jetty that comes of the island to the west. it might be time for a spawn there?
Thanks for the report Paul. Much appreciated!
Just checked ferry point 1/9 10:50am. Don’t see any activity or birds feeding
1/8 8am, just checked coyote and fisherman’s park, all is quiet. However, it is a nice day today, so far no wind.
End of Tiburon Cam – There is usually a good spawn along this wall each year, but unfortunately it is private property (sort of) and a long way down to the water.
https://coastalobservations.sfsu.edu/
Richmond shipyard had a live cam too on top of the crane. Osprey live cam I think it was.
Richmond CA live cam -Ferry Point
https://hdontap.com/index.php/video/stream/golden-gate-osprey-1
Correction- Petrero Point. Next to the Red Oak Victory ship.
Quiet and both Ferry Point and Petrero Point
Correction- Petrero Point. Next to the Red Oak Victory ship.
Quiet and both Ferry Point and Petrero Point
Good cam for Sausalito
http://www.sausalitoyachtclub.org/Weather/Webcam.aspx
Thanks Aimbig! We need this for other places as well.
Ferry all quite
Checked Sausalito, nothing happenings, lots of birds staying in the rooftop spinnaker resto
Several hundred if not a thousand cormorants, gulls and pelicans in Richardson Bay pushing herring around. It doesn’t appear they are spawning but certainly staging.
I did check that web camera and there does seem like there are lots of birds hanging around spinnaker. This would be a good area to keep an eye out in case something goes down. I may have to go out and scout this weekend.
I may run into you there then. Happy hunting!
This year is a perfect example of the randomness of the Pacific Herring spawning activities…….Traditional spawning areas will no doubt get there share-its just a matter of when. Patience is the key-we all know at some point there will be large spawning events-so dont get over excited. There will be plenty for everyone interested. Also of note-I do not believe there is any commercial pressure from the herring boats this year, and this should help the overall biomass…be patient, have fun, and be safe. Happy New Year
Just checked chase and nothing is going on
nothing at ferry point richmond last night
There was a post about Angel Island. They were deep. Lots of pelicans.
Jan 4th 3pm, no signs at fisherman’s or coyote pt yet. No eggs or birds or seals
Someone says neap tide period is the favorable time for herring spawn. This weekend is new moon, low tide is extremely low. With this theory, Next weekend (Jan8/9) is better chance, and Jan 22/23 timeframe is the best bet.
Thats what i was thinking, should be some good spawning closer to the full moon
Checked mission rock this morning. Lots of cormorans diving around. Also pier looks like recent herring massacre happened. Lots of fish scales blanketing the pier. I’m going to check it around 5 again.
Thanks Greg for the update; keep up posted if you do check it out at 5.
Checked out chase and anza. Zero activity.
I can second the neap. I’ve got them every year for the late 5 years on the neap. Generally i run the boat around a day or 2 before the neap and get an idea (with sonar) of where they are staging. Ill post what I find. Looking like 1/17/22 is going to be a decent tide.
Thanks CJAY! Waiting for the report of your finding.
Checked everything between paradise, Richardson, spinnaker, and the seal. No birds no eggs. A mention of candlestick, I tried last week and the rain flooded the only entrance from the north side. Drove through 2.5ft of water to find the gate locked. Still early in the season and no major events yet.
1pm Checked out pier52 down to aqua vista, no herrings, no birds no seals, stopped by fishermans pt, no herrings no activity, couldn’t find a way to candlestick, roads all closed and weird. Anyone hear anything about Spinnakers?
Minh, I went by Spinnaker yesterday afternoon and there were about 7 pelicans sitting but no other birds or seals really. I’m hopeful that’s the next area to go off still since there were still some signs.
Cool man thanks
Saw hundreds of seagulls maybe 200-300 at the Marina District this morning, but couldn’t verify if there were herring there since I had to leave. Anyone else check it out?
Ferry Point is quiet.
Nothing at coyote point / anza. Just checked. No eggs or bird activity
How is Aqua park tonight?
Any activities?
Just got back from there, fished 5pm-9pm, tried the Aqua park down to pier 52, got 1 herring and all anchovies/jacksmelt, saw some guy get like 2-3 herrings on a few casts but nothing after that
Fished from 5 to 830 pm. Tons of anchovies with mix of smelt. Ended up with 23 herring and 2 sardines. Mission rock
Just checked out Agua Vista park during the lowest tide. There were a few people testing their luck. No signs of herring but tons of eggs on the seaweed and the seagulls were feasting over them. My thought is the spawn has finished at Agua Vista so it may be time to find the next location. I’ll be scouting other locations and will keep this group updated.
Here at Chase Center, it’s 4pm. There is no spawn. Happy New Years! First time posting.
i was at pier 52 are last night from 9:30 – 12:00. i saw someone next to me slowly fill up about 2/3 of a bucket. he had a better net than me. i only got 7 total but wasnt throwing too well or consistently. im not surprised that there wasnt a better pull this morning. it doesnt feel like a big spawn yet.
nothing as of 9:05am in front of Chase center. Several people waiting here. Tried casting every 5-10 min. No luck. Will leave in 20 min. Maybe they come tonight again…
12/31 9am nothing at fisherman’s park
Spent the very early morning (0400-0730) between aqua vista and pier 48 today anticipating on the incoming tide and hopefully working a mediocre spawn. However I did not have any luck. As the sun came up and the tide came in the birds and seals never arrived and any sea weed/grass I pulled up had very few and very old herring eggs attached, nothing fresh. Everyone keep your eyes and ears out for the north bay spawn.
Leaving Agua now. Got my limit. Took a couple hours and ripped my 3rd net, but I’m happy!
Were they still there? I don’t know if I wanna make the drive lol
Thanks for the report and congrats on the limit Token! I was just there last night and it was slim pickings between 7-10pm. I only witnessed a few people getting a couple of good pulls with with 15+ herring netted otherwise it was pretty scarce mixed with a lot of smelt and anchovies. Was there alot of people catching limits tonight?
It was a grind. I was throwing constantly for 2 hours. They came in waves. I’d go 10-15 mins with nothing, then 10-15 mins with fish on every throw. When it was hot I was getting 3-4 a throw- so nothing amazing. My first throw I got like 15, which is why I reported so quick, but that was by far my best throw. When I left people were still getting a few here and there. I feel like they’re coming in. Good luck!
Nice meeting you bro!
You too! Bummer about your net. As it was slowing down last night, I moved over to where you were and I think the same snag that got you also got me. I should have just stayed put 😅
Can confirm they are still there. Got a couple of them within a few throws but got it snagged and have to leave. Will try to get the net when the tide goes down. Anyone know where I can get a net locally? Shipping will take a couple of days and fear that the big spawn is around the corner.
Hi tackle got bunch of nets
Try dicks sporting goods, I’ve had luck there in the past. I went to the one in Daly City.. I’m sure there’s one near you . Good luck!
West marine, Walmart (only 3 footer). Good luck 🤞.
Anything else happening at aqua vista??
7:35pm 12/30
Slowly coming in at Agua Vista. Caught 4 in one cast before my net got snagged and ripped so I gave up lol. Bet there’s gonna be more later.
Herring at Agua Vista!
Coming in hot? Or just a few?
Maybe got excited. They’re here, but not as big as I thought
Thanks Token for the update! 🤔
Is it super packed already the pier lol!! Thanks for the updates!! Everyone
Yeah here and no one is catching anything lol maybe later
Was there at 4:30pm but nothing.
Can anyone confirm this?
I think there is a spawn happening on the north side of the channel, across from Baker Beach. A few hundred birds diving near the rocks. Hopefully they move in towards the bridge.
Stopped by aqua vista, Mission rock pier. Super quiet, see a couple people throwing net, no fish.
Was at aqua vista / Chase center around 10pm-midnight last night (12/29/2021 – 12/30/2021), caught probably half a bucket, met this awesome friend name sebastian and we were just having a blast, it was just me and him 🙂 had an amazing night out hope you see you around sebastian
It was no tide, no birds, no sea lions, nada.
Nice to meet you buddy, it was a great time indeed. Nice to have company to brave the cold!
Everyone left around 11pm on 12/29, and left me and Evan the whole pier to ourselves. That’s when the herring decided to come in. Could have stayed later and filled close to a bucket I’m sure, but was satisfied with 1/3 bucket. No birds, seals, etc, dead quiet on that front.
Im glad you guys got the opportunity to meet up and fish together. I tried to promote this community so people can enjoy the experience of finding like minded people and get on the fish. We are all going through a lot with this pandemic so we all need a break from it all. Glad you guys had a good time.
What is the best way to cure Herring for sturgeon bait
At Aqua Vista right now. Guys got some earlier but dead now.
Any updates at Chase center? Was thinking of braving the rain and driving into the city if they’re still there. Thanks!
We stopped by around 11 today bud did not throw nets. Raining and cold with no sign of life. Rain should stop around 3 so we might go check it out.
Lessons learned. Throwing net for 30 minutes while watching gray heron relaxing on the shore with no results. Heron moves to the edge of the water. Next throw we catch herring. Second lesson is bring rain gear. As soon as the fish came in so did the rain. Got soaked after catching few fish and had to run. Second round tomorrow. Mission rock.
Way to go Greg!! 👍
Anyone going there today? Any update?
I would drive in to check it out if not stuck at word.
Was just there 45 min ago. Spent 30 min tossing a cast net and nothing
Thanks for the update. I appreciate it! Maybe I’ll check it out later when the rain stops. Are the herring more likely to come in at night or does it not matter?
Does not matter what time of the day; last season when I got the report, it was around 9:00 PM. I dropped everything and started heading out. 45 minutes later, the spawn was still on full swing and got myself the limit.
Just checked back at 1:15pm
Just seagulls eating what must be eggs on the shoreline.
No cormorants or seals
Low tide
Did you try throwing the net? That is the only way to tell whether the fish are still around.
It’s happening at agua vista park. Bunch of anchovy in the mix. Not a full wide open spawn but they’re moving in! Good luck!
Thanks Brian for the update. Is this still on?
Very small spawn happening at Mission Rock. Caught about 30 herring between 8pm-10pm. Schools were very sporadic but fish were present.
Oakland airport tube and the harbor bay ferry checked. No sign of spawning; cold cold and windy 15-20 mph, whitecaps all over the surface of the water looking into the distance.
I remember one year Candlestick was loaded with a spawn, and there wasn’t 1 bird of any kind feeding or waiting.
I remember about 15 years ago I went out to Coyote Point one morning early January and found a swath of eggs, as thick as a hay bale and about 25 ft long sitting on the rocky beach by the marina-not a single cootie bird, seagull, nothing in sight……..it was astonishing!
7:21am 12/29
Looks like there might be some spawn activity at the Chase center still. Couple guys throwing nets, couldn’t see if they’re getting any though. Some seagulls and some cormorants working
Ferry point Richmond, big flock of cormorants and gulls offshore, threw net around high tide, no fish, no eggs on weed fragments in net.
Checked Paradise pier Nada.
Hi Frank! Thanks for the info
12:45 Christmas day. Nothing at coyote point. No seals, no birds, and no activity
Thanks for the update Kelly!
Took advantage of the nice weather today and took a lap from Richmond to Paradise to Sausalito and saw nothing at all. 😕
👍 Thank you for the report TOKEN!
No worries! Hopefully someone will find them soon and share. My kids are dying to get some herring in a net 😊
Been hearing about some fish at Pier 52
Thanks for the tip Minh, but I think I’ll wait for some definitive info before I ditch Xmas dinner to drive into the city 😂😂 Happy Holidays everyone!
Was there on Tuesday and there are eggs on the seaweed in a small section on the north side of the ramp but nowhere else between Agua Vista and mcovey Cove. Was also in the area yesterday. No other action besides a few pelicans diving at mcovey, lots of small Smelt around.
Road to Candlestick was flooded with 2-2.5ft and gates locked
That is great! Let’s get your family on some new years herring!! I am putting together a few packages together for those how share herring hunting photos. I’ll update on top.
Checked out arw, flag pole area around 2:00 PM today, 12/23/21; it was quiet but a bit windy and drizzling on and off.
@Ferry Pt. 1:30pm, nada
Typically, herring will spawn in a given location only once. The event may take place over several days or tides, but once an area has been spawned out, they usually will not return to that spot until next season….keep checking spots that have not been spawned yet. We still have a long way to go folks! Happy Hunting
That’s true 10 days they can spawn there again !!
Checked out chase center yesterday, no birds, no fish
12/23 @ 12:30am – Checked out mission cove near the giants stadium. Can hear the sounds of sea lions thrashing in deeper water. Was able to net 4 herring and some smelt within the first few casts and i stayed around for another hour but no other fish were caught.
Just scouted around Bay Farm and rock wall. Didn’t see any signs of a spawn. Rock wall has a bunch of birds, but no active feeding. Hopefully they’ll come back one more time 🤞🏽
Was at arw couple days ago. Birds were sitting pretty far away. Saw a few eel grass strands with some eggs attached that someone left behind.
Hit the ARW area this morning around 7:50 AM; it was raining and nothing noted despite the usual morning sitting birds in the distance into the bay.
Will keep checking every weekdays since ARW is only 15 minutes away from my work.
6:45am 12/22 didn’t see any activity at Chase center under the cover of darkness.
Will be posting about it because I pass it everyday for work
Hit paradise this morning around 11. Nothing. Elephant Rock, nothing. Came back to the city, Mission Rock, nothing and the launch ramp at Oracle, nothing.
Hey Jason,
Nice meeting you today at Paradise. Checked out Ferry Point after we left Paradise. Nothing going on there today. See you at the next spawn.
Cheers, DeadlyDave
Nice meeting you as well. I will keep you updated on what i find. We will get them. Gonna be a great year!
Cheers
Checked Ferry Pt. @noon, nada.
Thanks Idlefishing for the report. How did you do today at the arw?
Good seeing you out there earlier. I’ve been checking Alameda throughout the day without much luck. Only notable thing worth mentioning so far today happened early this morning around 7am when the herring were being attacked near the deep channel by a massive flock of birds and seals. I was hoping to catch up to them or that they would push in closer but neither happened and by 8:30am I didn’t see anything else happening. It’s about 3pm and there’s still some sitting birds and local seals so maybe the changing tide could bring something… or not.
I checked the Oakland airport/tubes area around 1:00 pm nothing there. About 2 hundred yards out from the Harbor Bay Ferry dock, there were diving and sitting birds but too far to tell. I will drive by there after work at 5:00 pm again.
Seems like things are starting to heat up.
I did not hit Paradise this morning but there is a ton of birds crashing down pretty deep in the Richardson Bay across from the sea plane area near the Richardson bridge. Maybe shore fish able at the high better internet boat. Normally a small quick spawn. It’s go time.
Today was a great day because it officially marks the first known herring spawn in the bay! I managed to catch about 150 herring in a couple of hours late this evening throwing a castnet around the Alameda Rockwall area! It was exciting to be amongst the birds and seals taking advantage of all that the herring spawn has to offer with no one in sight. I’m sure that’s about to change. Go get em’!
Great reporting idlefishing! Thanks for the update.
They’re here! Caught some between the rockwall and Ballena Bay in Alameda today
+++I caught some there today as well!
Somebody just posted on the Pacifica Pier fishing and crabbing facebook page that there were herring at Paradise today.
Thanks for the intel. I’ll post something soon
Yesterday (Sunday) I crossed the GG Bridge twice on my bike–out and back on a long Tam ride. Both crossings were on an outgoing tide. On the way out–mid-span–I could see a lot of feeding terns or gulls and a pod of smallish feeding dolphins. On the way back there were fewer feeding terns/gulls, but some, plus feeding cormorants and sea lions. This gang was working the eddy behind (west of) the south tower. I’m pretty sure, at this time of year, they will be feeding on herring? I also think that the mid-span runs head south toward Foster City, while the runs that head up Richardson Bay hug tighter to the north bridge abutment. This is based on some evidence, but not much. Fingers crossed that we’ll hear about a spawning run working its way north along the shore from Foster City or Coyote Pt in a week or so?
I cant find this page, i just change the 2021 to 2022 and FOUND THIS PAGE. NICEEEE .. im ready!! 2022 baby!! hope they hit during these big rains.. RAIN OR SHINE im there
Hopefully they will be here soon. I’ll keep an eye out and let post on this thread when things get going.
Thanks for exciting news!
I’ll tune this up and will see right timing to go out. I can’t wait for it.
Got my throw net locked and loaded! Is there an area they typically hit first?
Right on! Thanks for setting this up. Looks like limit got beefed up this year. Learned my lesson, only need to take what I can handle and that’s about one 10 gallon bucket tops.
Hopefully I’m able to get some herrings before I head out overseas. Looking forward to all the reports! Thanks for starting up blog.
TLA, still have TLA T Shirt on my wall from first herring hunter award,yes I’m still kicking just not as high. Left my house at 4:50 pm to go to CHASE CENTER got back home at 9:00 with just shy of limit. Evan showed up after I was there for about 1/2 an hour first three throws 3/4 of a bucket, I fished next to great guy and his kids. He told me come over here to where it was more flat and we could take turns throwing I think he didn’t want to have to go rescue a fat old man from the rocks. When he was leaving he even went as far as to carry my bucket of fish to my truck and dump them in my ice chest and bring it back to me so I could keep fishing Even did the same thing when I left two great guys. Now it’s time for seniors to think about bed,thanks again guys and good luck chovy’s