Cortez Bank Bluefin Bite Paused by Windy Weather – But the San Diego Fleet Remains Optimistic
The bluefin tuna bite on Cortez Bank was as good as anyone could ask for — until the wind showed up and changed everything.
Long-range boats working the Bank have made the smart call to head south and bail out of the deteriorating conditions. The exposed seamount is simply becoming too rough and unsafe for comfortable, productive fishing right now. This comes at a particularly frustrating time because the bluefin were dialed in.
Before the weather turned, the fleet was enjoying outstanding action on quality fish in the 120 to 220-pound class, with one standout 320-pound bluefin recently brought to the boat. That fish, along with consistent quality bites, created a real sense of euphoria across the San Diego long-range community. Captains and anglers were genuinely excited about what the next several weeks could bring.
The reality of Cortez Bank fishing is that weather always has the final say. Strong northwest winds and building swell are forecast to keep conditions challenging through Thursday, with the roughest weather expected mid-week (including a solid NW swell event). Many boats have wisely relocated to calmer southern waters while they wait.
The good news? This should be a short-term pause, not a long-term change in the bite. Marine forecasts show winds and seas moderating significantly by Friday, with even better conditions shaping up for Saturday and Sunday. Those look like the first solid weather windows to get back out on the Bank and resume the hunt.
Bluefin don’t just disappear because of a few windy days — they’re still in the area. As soon as it’s safe and fishable again, the fleet will be right back on them.
In the meantime, stay safe, keep an eye on the forecasts, and enjoy whatever action you can find closer to home or further south.
The bite was hot. It will be hot again soon.
Weather Summary (Cortez Bank region – based on current marine forecasts):
Strong NW winds (20–25+ knots with higher gusts) and building seas/swell are expected through Thursday, with peak rough conditions and an 8 ft NW swell around Thursday. Conditions improve Friday with easing winds; Saturday and Sunday look significantly better with lighter winds and more manageable seas.
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