Yellowtail Bite is ON at Catalina Island – Big, Tough Fish Putting on a Show
These yellowtail at Catalina Island cleaned our clocks. We caught 10 yellows but we lost at least another 20, maybe 30 fish. They’re big, they’re tough. They pull hard and they are a lot of fun. Many of these fish are in the 18 to 25 pound class at Catalina Island right now. Some exceed 30 pounds. This yellowtail bite is phenomenal and mixed in with it are some bigger bonito as well as rockfish and barracuda.”
Right now the yellowtail fishing at Catalina Island is something special. Anglers are catching some truly sizable fish close to the island, and the action has been hot and heavy.
Captain Phil Ornelas from the El Patrón out of Long Beach (berth 55) put it perfectly after a recent trip:
That kind of consistent big yellowtail action this close to the mainland is what makes Catalina special right now. These fish are strong, they fight hard in the current, and they’re giving anglers a real workout.
Tackle Tips from Captain Phil
Captain Phil keeps it simple and stresses the basics that matter most:
• Good tackle and fresh line
• Solid knots and connections
• Just a couple of rods and reels will do the job if your gear is right
He also mentioned that the crew on the El Patrón is happy to help anglers get tied up and ready on the way to the fishing grounds.
Full-day boats leaving from Southern California landings and focusing on Catalina Island should see more of this kind of fishing in the next few days. The weekend weather is looking nicer with less wind — perfect conditions to get out there.
Stay on Top of the Latest Reports
For the most up-to-date fishing news, be sure to visit http://friedmanadventures.com and check the Captain’s audios throughout the day. That’s where you’ll hear the freshest reports straight from the boats.
Upcoming Events
• Next Surf Fishing Festival: Saturday, July 18 at Anderson Street & Pacific Coast Highway, 9:00 AM – 12:00 noon. Free event with raffles, giveaways, and family fun.
• Next Fishing Trip: Full-day trip on the Estella, departing 6:00 AM and returning 5:00 PM. Text Philip Friedman at 657-227-6459 to get on board.
The yellowtail are biting, the weather is cooperating, and there are plenty of ways to get out on the water. Head over to http://friedmanadventures.com for the latest Captain’s audios and all the details.
Tight lines and see you out there!
Phil Friedman