Killer Whale Pod Sighting 5/25/26

Decided to take advantage of a beautiful wx/condition window and head up to Russian Gulch up on the Mendocino Coast. I almost called it as it meant going solo for the morning, but Paul shared he was going to be there around 11:00. I was fishing in about 100 feet of water somewhat south when I hear multiple blow hole sounds and surfacing sounds. My head is always on a swivel every time I hear something anyway after the shark incident back in 2020. At this point I am straight out from the cove and look southwest to see a pod of about six killer whales close to shore along the rocks between me and the coastline. They were cruising along… long black dorsal fins, the sounds of their blow holes and surfacing was incredible, but a bit unnerving for me, so I started out in the opposite direction. On the way out I noted many seals so I assume perhaps they were looking for an easy snack. The show last about five minutes and then they were gone. At this point, Paul is on the radio and shares he is on his way out. Looking back I wish I had my phone or a camera out to attempt to film them; however, it will be a wonderful memory.

That's amazing! While it would be a great sight to see, if it was me, I'd be concerned that they might decide to investigate my AI...

https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/essays/orca-boat-attacks/?scope=initial

wow - what an incredible experience!

I like to think that whales are our friends and won't hurt us. But I would be both mesmerized and sketched to see them!

amazing encounter for sure. The few encounters I’ve heard other kayakers having with orcas never really been aggressive. Jeremy and I saw a pod from his boat in Eureka years back and yeah I remember the dorsals on those things were massive. Heard another pod just the other day chasing a couple whales up to the beach in Trinidad

They show up at the Cove sometimes.  I once saw some over by the Whistle, and I was way over by the hotels.  I paddled that direction, hoping to see them up close, but they were gone by the time I got there.  I did catch a salmon where they'd been though!

Nice to see that you're getting on the water, but solo?!!   

Living life, bro!   

Hi Eric, from the beginning of this you have inspired me and many others. Trying to get out on the yak more lately. I found long range fishing to be a lot less stressful 🤪

Hey Cam, long time. I remember the time we were fishing up out of Trinidad for salmon with one of my sons. Good times.

I rushed out to see them, but they were gone by the time I arrived.  I saw some photos of recent sightings.

Paul

I rushed out to see them, but they were gone by the time I arrived.  I saw some photos of recent sightings.

Paul

Good timing. Rationally, I know they were just doing their thing, but it did make me a bit on edge. 🤪