Understanding optimal water conditions for California Halibut in the Bay.

Hello all,
 
My newbie question relates to optimal water conditions for CA Halibut in the Bay.  I've read TLA's and Allen Bushnell's article on water temp and clarity.  However, I have no clue what temp range and more specifically water clarity to look for.  How the hell do you measure water clarity anyways?  By the way, when is the Halibut bite expected to turn on at the Alameda Wall? Thanks in advance.

Optimal water conditions are when you go out.   Water is pretty clear in the bay unless the tide is jamming.  Clear means green where I fish, not brown, the ocean is different.  Some Hali’s are already being caught in the bay in this cooler water.  I’ve heard 57 is a tasty number for temperature for Hali’s.  Not sure the temp now but may be around 50-51...kinda sturgy temps...

How the hell do you measure water clarity anyways? 

With a turbidity meter. You can DIY a turbidity tube, my kid made one for science fair a few years back.

Or you can just eyeball it.

I’ve heard that in the ocean, 60 degrees is the magic water temperature, and that seems about right. It might be different in the bay, though.

my rules of thumb

when the water looks green, not brown and you can see a foot or so down when you put your paddle in, its clear enough
when the water feels more or less like the air temp at midday

or just wait till April

"Optimal water conditions are when you go out".  I hear that Eddie.  Thanks for the responses gents!

My rule for consistent action is minimum 58 degree water and "green tea latte" water in SF Bay. We've had great bites in February before (like 20+ fish days). Always worth a shot during a mid-winter heat wave.