Dana Wharf Blog

Lobster Diving Lobster fishing in Dana Point today is mainly carried out through lobster diving. This method involves using a snorkel or scuba gear to dive down to the ocean floor and catch lobsters by hand. To ensure the sustainability of the lobster population and maintain a balanced marine ecosystem, lobster divers must have a…

For those who are curious about the ocean and its wonders, a visit to the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, California is a must. This non-profit organization offers a variety of educational programs and experiences for all ages, making it the perfect destination for families, students, and ocean enthusiasts alike. About the Ocean Institute The Ocean Institute, a non-profit organization, was founded in the year 1977 with the goal of raising awareness about the ocean and its significance to our planet. It is located in the Dana Point Harbor, California, and since its inception, the institute has been committed to providing interactive programs and experiences to visitors, with the aim of educating them about marine life, conservation, and the history of the ocean. The institute’s educational programs are designed to inspire visitors of all ages to become responsible caretakers of…

We had a mellow week on both the 1/2 and 3/4 day fishing trips with light loads. During the 1/2 day trips, we mostly caught bass and sheephead. The water temperature was between 63°-64°, which is still mild. We had some surface action on live bait, but most of the action was mid-water on sliders….

Catalina Island, located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. From hiking and kayaking to snorkeling and zip lining, there is something for everyone on this idyllic island. In this guide, we’ll explore the top attractions and activities on Catalina Island, as well as provide tips for planning your trip. Getting to Catalina Island The most popular way to get to Catalina Island is by taking the Catalina Express ferry from Dana Point Harbor or Long Beach. The ferry ride takes about an hour and offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. You can also take a helicopter ride from Long Beach or San Pedro, which takes about 15 minutes. Where to Stay Catalina Island offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts…

It has been a classic early fall week along the coast and off the beach. The shallows have been the spot for 1/2 day fishing trips targeting sheephead and bass. This week has seen some nice quality on these fish. There has been some flyline bass action on the live sardines. The water temperature is…

Mellow week for us on the local scene, as water temperatures remained steady at 66°-68°. Bass fishing was mostly unchanged, with fish caught on the flyline, slider sinkers, and at the bottom. Some nice sheephead were caught using exotic baits like clam and shrimp, as well as other usual suspects like sculpin and whitefish, which…

Discover the Hidden Gem: San Clemente Island San Clemente Island is a beautiful and secluded destination located just off the coast of southern California. It is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored by outdoor enthusiasts. The Island’s History San Clemente Island has a rich history that dates back centuries. It all began with the indigenous Gabrielino-Tongva people, who lived on the island for generations and relied on its plentiful marine life and resources. In the 16th century, Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo was the first European to step foot on the island during his exploration of the California coast. The island was named “San Clemente” in his honor, coinciding with Saint Clement’s feast day on November 23. In the mid-19th century, as the United States acquired California and its coastal islands, San Clemente Island transitioned from a…

The vast ocean is a treasure trove of diverse marine life, ranging from the tiniest plankton to the most gigantic whales. Among these awe-inspiring creatures is the false killer whale, a species that often gets overshadowed by its more well-known cousin, the killer whale or orca. Despite its misleading name, the false killer whale is…

We had a successful week with good coverage of offshore, bass, and rockfish. Along the coast, the 1/2 day scene has been productive. Water temperatures ranged between 66°-68°, with bass action both in mid-water and on the sinker set ups. There is still some flyline action happening on days with favorable conditions. There was no…

8 Eight-hour whale watching trips are for adventurous and marine life lovers; people come from all over to experience these life-changing trips !! 7 Humpback Whales, 2 Fin Whales, 1 Bryde’s Whale, and 3 Minke Whales, plus Risso’s, Bottlenose, and Common Dolphin! Future trip dates: Friday, November 10, 2023 & Sunday, December 31, 2023. https://danawharf.com/whale-watching/8-hour-ultimate-whale-watch/  Friday…

At Dana Wharf, we deeply appreciate the mesmerizing marine life that graces our oceans; among the most captivating creatures are the pilot whales. These remarkable beings never cease to amaze us with their intelligence and social complexity. Join us on our tours to witness these majestic marine mammals up close and personal. Fact 1: Not Your Typical Whale Despite their misleading name, pilot whales are not whales; they are oceanic dolphins belonging to the genus Globicephala. They are often called “blackfish” due to their distinct dark coloration. These sleek, black bodies make them stand out in the ocean. Fact 2: Masters of Social Living Pilot whales are renowned for their highly social nature. They live in tight-knit groups known as pods, which can vary in size from small groups of 10 individuals to astonishing assemblies of up to over 100…

Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights: A Sweet Spectacle for the Holidays Are you ready to immerse yourself in the enchantment of the holiday season? Look no further than the Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights, a beloved annual event that will leave you in awe. Taking place from December 8 to December…