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Fishing the San Francisco Bay: Herring Spawn Struggles, Striped Bass, and Hot Spots
For December 29, 2024, if you're planning to head out fishing in the San Francisco Bay, here's what you need to know:
First off, let's talk about the daylight and tidal conditions. Sunrise today is at 7:24 AM, and sunset will be at 4:58 PM, giving you about 9 hours and 34 minutes of daylight[2].
As for the fish activity, the Pacific herring spawn has been a bit sluggish this year. As of recent reports, the herring have been spotted in smaller schools around the bay, particularly near Ferry Point in Richmond and around Pier 50 and 49 near the Chase Center and Aqua Vista Park. However, the numbers have been lower than usual, and the fish have been harder to locate[1].
For other species, the San Francisco Bay is known for its striped bass, rockfish, and halibut. Around this time, you might have some luck with striped bass near the Golden Gate Bridge Fishing Pier or halibut near Alcatraz Island[3].
Given the current conditions, using Sabiki rigs has been the method of choice for catching herring, as they allow you to target the smaller schools effectively. For other species, live bait such as anchovies or sardines can be very effective, especially for striped bass and rockfish[1].
If you're looking for hot spots, the Golden Gate Bridge Fishing Pier is always a good bet for striped bass and rockfish. Another spot worth checking out is Paradise Park near Tiburon, which is known for its productive fishing during the striped bass season[3].
Keep an eye on the weather, as storms can affect fish behavior and make them more active. However, as of now, the herring spawn seems to be delayed, so patience will be key.
Good luck out there, and remember to check the local regulations before you head out.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
Published on 11 months, 3 weeks ago