Santa Cruz Reefs

Hi there.

I am wondering if there is a reef close to shore to fish for rockfish or lingcod from Santa Cruz.  I read that there is a lighthouse reef.  Is that still close enough to shore for a beginner to feel safe alone out there? 

Shozo

just launch from Cowels and make sure to stay well out of the breaker zone at Lighthouse point (Steamers Lane). You would still be better off not going out solo.

You can launch fro the Santa Cruz wharf- there's a floating dock.  As long as it's not dominated by sea lions!  Also not a long paddle from santa cruz harbor to lighthouse point.  Or you can paddle due south to the Mile buoy and fish just to the east of the buoy.  Reefy area.

Best bet, as advised, is to team up with someone who has fished there.  Get you onto fish, and much safer.

Good luck!!

Bushy

Thanks.

So, if I understand correctly...being too close to shore near the lighthouse is actually more the problem/dangerous. 

Shozo

 

Thanks, Bushy…

I am familiar with a Mile Buoy from the capitola wharf.  Is there another one called that off of the Santa Cruz Wharf?

Thanks for the advice to no go it alone.

Shozo

there is no such thing as a beginner feeling safe and being safe. yes the reef is relatively close but it still the ocean. you're on the right site though find a couple people willing to show you the ropes.

there's no mile buoy at Capitola. There is a "mile reef" there, and it holds fish, usually.  To the west is SC3 Buoy and to the east inside is Sponge Bob buoy.  All are potentially good fishing locations in Capitola.

Mile Buoy is due south of Santa Cruz harbor, yes, one mile away.  Straight offshore.  paddle out there and fish the bottom with swimbaits, irons, shrimp fly, or whole squid or other bait.  You will catch fish.  Stay on the East side of the buoy (SC beaches face south, so east is to your left looking offshore).

R Bark should take you out he has that area dialed in!


Bushy

Santa Cruz?  Everyone knows there's no fish in Santa cruz!

Thanks for the information!

It's all very helpful.  Can't wait to get out there.

Shozo

Hi there.

I am wondering if there is a reef close to shore to fish for rockfish or lingcod from Santa Cruz.  I read that there is a lighthouse reef.  Is that still close enough to shore for a beginner to feel safe alone out there? 

Shozo

Here ya go, this might help:

Berkeley94608: These maps are geat!

Thanks!
Shozo

When are you going out? Best to find an sc hookup or start one and see who joins. I have a party to attend otherwise I'd try and hit it this Saturday

-FF

hey shizzo,

did you go? outcome?