El Niño 2026 Ignites Epic Early-Season Fishing in Southern California!

The waters off Southern California are heating up in a big way, and yesterday’s trip on the Grande out of Point Loma Sportfishing in San Diego was proof that something special is happening.

The crew reported an incredible day with a fantastic mix of species — over 40 Dorado, 30 yellowtail, six bluefin, and five yellowfin. This kind of variety is something we normally don’t see until the fall… if at all… in our local waters. But with ocean temperatures rising, El Niño is pushing tropical and subtropical species north much earlier than usual.

El Niño events bring warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures to the Eastern Pacific. This allows fish like Dorado (mahi-mahi), yellowfin tuna, and others that typically stay farther south or well offshore to move into Southern California waters in greater numbers and earlier in the season. This year, Dorado have already been caught as far north as Catalina and Santa Barbara Islands — a real treat for local anglers.

This is just the beginning. Current forecasts show a strong El Niño continuing through the fall and into the first part of next year. That means Southern California sport fishermen could be in for an extended period of excellent fishing on species we don’t normally see around here in these numbers.

One thing to keep in mind during El Niño years is that bait can be inconsistent or in short supply as the warm water disrupts normal baitfish patterns. That’s why it’s smart to come prepared with backup options like surface irons and yo-yo irons, as well as proven lures like the Kold Sniper. Having a variety of presentations ready can make all the difference.

All signs point to a fantastic rest of the year for Southern California anglers. The El Niño influence is already delivering early action on some exciting species — and there’s plenty more to come.