Sneaker Waves at HMB

Just a general reminder to everyone to stay safe.

Monday 4/1 forecast at HMB looked really nice.  1-3ft W sell ~15 seconds, 1-2ft swell SSW ~15 seconds.
When I went out the jaws around 7 am, the period on the west swells was much tighter, and a bit bigger.  Not quiet the glass I had hoped, and I ended up wishing I had taking my Dramamine.  There were occasional 6 footers rolling through.  There were a few periods during the morning where things settled down nicely.

Around noon, I headed back to pull my traps, and then fished off the south jetty as I headed up towards the jaws.  A really big set rolled through with little warning.  At least a couple of 8 footers (maybe even 10 ft), and a few swells that overlapped.  I was far enough off the jetty and facing the swells, so it wasn't a big deal, but closer to the jetty or unaware and it might have been less fun.  I image that west/north jetty and areas around Kings Rock were pretty dicey.

NOAA did have a "sneaker wave" warning in effect.  Also, talked to one kayaker who said harbor master had gotten on the radio to let folks know that big waves were not unexpected.

I only started last year, and I suspect this is just "business as usual" for northern California, but wanted to share.

<snipped>  I only started last year, and I suspect this is just "business as usual" for northern California, but wanted to share.

That's a well warranted warning, thanks for posting. Maybe not business as usual, per se, but we do get them and it's right to pay attention as well as checking forecasts and alerts before going.

it is always good to have a warning posted up as the season opens.
HMB has been closed out with charter boats having to surf into the harbor some years.
congrats of getting out and staying safe.

Thanks for the report and info.

Alex

Thanks for the info

Good reminder.  It's always something to keep in the back of your mind when fishing close to structure or rocks.  King's Rock is well known to break suddenly on a glassy day and/or suddenly get really shallow b/n swells when you're fishing on top of it (as can a lot of reefs in the area).  Be safe!   

Thotful post bro. Thx 4 shouting out 4 the newbs

I wish I had read this before I went on that same day further north at Ocean Cove. I got hit be a sneaker wave right as I was approaching the beach and got dumped.  I was fine and survived with all my gear. I learned a lesson that day. :}

Have never fished HMB, live out in Santa Cruz. Thinking about making the trip? Sat??

From my many years of experience I have found that a small W swell can give you some occasional big sets.

Thanks for the heads up, sounds pretty gnarly