Understanding Wind Conditions San Francisco Bay Kayak Fishing

Written by The Lost Anchovy 5.13.2019

Introduction

The San Francisco Bay area is one of the most ecologically diverse places in all of California and a jewel for Bay Area Kayak Anglers. However, like most things, the more beautiful it is, the more dangerous it can be — beware.

I hope everyone who reads my blog take the time to read this article and my other safety post. I write these articles to empower you with knowledge so you can stay safe, have fun and catch fish.

Related Articles:

• 10 Essential Kayak Fishing Safety Tips
• Water temperature, color, ocean tides and swells

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Below are three popular locations to kayak fish in the bay and the typical wind patterns that flow around them. Let’s get started.

Oyster Point

Understanding the wind conditions around Oyster Point is important to staying safe. On most days, during the spring and summer months, oyster point will have lake like conditions when the right factors align. — Don’t be fooled.

Oyster point can be down right dangerous when the wind conditions turn on. Typically, the wind will let you know before the fan turns on.  Be extremely mindful of the light breeze, as the fan usually follows it. 

The wind off Oyster point blows offshore, meaning the wind will take you away from the launch.  Take heed of this when you are kayaking this area.  Being far off shore when the fan turns on is a recipe for disaster.

TIP: If the wind has not started to blow, I will stay near shore, around the markers, starting around 1pm. The wind around Oyster Point will usually pick up around this time.

Alameda Rock Wall

ARW or the Alameda Rock Wall is another popular location for spring and summer halibut and striper fishing. The wind at ARW will typically blow from San Francisco towards Oakland. I consider this a downward wind.  

This is important consider when fishing near the second wall.  If you have an incoming tide and a downward wind ride it back to the launch site. If the wind and tide become too much, consider escaping from the wind by paddling on the inside of the wall. (See diagram below)

Berkley Flats

Of all the kayak fishing locations in the bay I consider Berkeley one of the most dangerous places. IMHO. Why? Unlike ARW or Oyster point, there are no natural barriers, besides TI and Alcatraz Island, that block the wind coming through the gate.

In simpler terms this means you will get the wind head on.  Expect lots of white caps and wind waves when the fan turns on.  This can be become very dangerous when flat conditions turn into dangerous ones.

Using the wind to your advantage

Although the wind can be make conditions rough, uncomfortable and potentially dangerous, it can also be used to your advantage. Depending on the tides, I will ride an outgoing tide to fish the Berkeley flats and TI area. When the wind turns on, and the incoming tide begins, I will ride the wind and tide back to the Berkeley.  Often, I will hook up with a few fish along the way.

Conclusion

There are lots of safety factors to consider when Kayak Fishing but I believe wind, tides, and swells are the most important ones to be knowledgeable about before venturing into the ocean or bays. Although these wind patterns are typical be ready to adjust should conditions change. I hope this article helps you to stay on top of the wind factor in the bay.  Good luck and tight lines –TLA