Saturday Night Bat Fight XVIII: A Stellar Night in San Diego 

By Latimeria

The Saturday Night Bat Fight XVIII (SNBF-XVIII) brought an electrifying atmosphere to San Diego Bay, with anglers gathering for 18 intense hours of Bat Ray fishing. Trucks were packed the night before, brimming with essentials for what would become one of the most successful tournaments in years.

Preparation was key for the San Diego Chapter this year, as participants scouted new hotspots around the bay rather than relying on luck or revisiting old fishing grounds. This strategic approach paid off, adding an extra layer of thrill and competition to the event.

The Early Hours
By 5:45 a.m., participants like Steve and Max had taken their positions, ready to cast their lines as soon as the opening bell sounded at 6:00 a.m. Even Sasquatch was present early, albeit with a debate over the walking distance to the fishing spot. Despite a slow start and some comical encounters—including rowboats crossing lines and a megaphone-wielding boater—the morning set the stage for some exciting catches.
In a stroke of luck, Sasquatch landed the first catch of the day with a modest 20-inch bat ray. Soon after, a relocation led to even greater success, with a competitive 43-inch bat ray caught and quickly celebrated among friends.

Team Strategy in Action
To maximize their chances, satellite teams strategically secured fire pits and other prime locations around the bay. Intelligence gathered earlier in the week suggested bat rays were cruising specific areas based on tide and time, making teamwork a critical factor.
In the morning, Jaws (Joe) and Team “One-Eyed Pirate” (Tim, Cheeze, Janie, and the twins) anchored the main meeting spot, turning it into a hub of action. The group hauled in an impressive tally of eight bat rays, as well as other ray species, before noon. Highlights included Jerry’s triumphant catch of the SNBF-XVIII 45.5” winner, a moment that drew cheers and camaraderie despite the missed opportunity to capture it on drone footage.

As the Sun Set
The evening brought the team together, sharing laughs and recounting the day’s adventures. Max experienced several hookups with impressive rays, though luck wasn’t on his side as he lost most of them. Meanwhile, Mike added to the excitement with a solid three-footer from a different part of the bay.

Victory and Celebration
The hard work and preparation leading up to the tournament culminated in a memorable victory for the San Diego Chapter. The win was doubly sweet as it prevented Team VC from achieving a coveted "three-peat" title.
SNBF-XVIII stood out as a testament to strategic planning, teamwork, and a love for fishing that binds this community. It will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most successful Bat Fights in recent history..
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SNBF-XVIII

When:
Where: Southern California Counties

Saturday Night Bat Fight XVIII - Rules and Sign-Ups

Welcome to the 18th year of the Saturday Night Bat Fight! This event has been a blast throughout the years, and we're excited to continue the tradition. This is a fun and free event where only bragging rights are at stake, making it perfect for anglers of all ages. This year’s event will take place on March 8th, 2025, rain or shine!

The Rules:

1. Eligible Fish:
Only Myliobatis californica, aka the Bat Ray, counts towards the ultimate winner. Other species caught will only count for individual bragging rights.

2. Measuring:
Measure the widest wingspan over the top of the Ray using a taut tape with corresponding pictures. Loose or flat-laying tape on the entire body and wings may lose inches based on peer reviews.

3. Catch-Photograph-Release (CPR):
Only CPR is allowed. No gaffs or landing tools that cause direct injury to the fish are permitted.

4. County Team Captains:
The main area for each county will be picked by the Team Captain. Satellite groups must post their results by 11:59 PM on March 8th, 2025. If no Captain is available, meet up with your regular fishing friends or other county participants to plan your game.

5. Fishing Location:
Shore Fishing Only from the Surf or Bay. No kayaking baits, shore casting only.

6. County Recording:
You can fish in any county, but the fish you catch will count for the county where it was caught (e.g., if you are from LA fishing in SD, the bat will count for SD).

7. Event Timing:
The event starts at 6:00 AM on the day of the tournament and ends at 11:59 PM that night. This generous window allows participants with different schedules to join the event.

8. Photo Submission:
Photos must be posted by 11:59 PM on Saturday, March 8th.
Late submissions will be disqualified. Please be mindful of the time! Submissions will be made at https://www.prehistoricsoulforum.com/index.php?topic=5509.0
or this Facebook Page (The easiest way for most people to participate)

9. Honor System:
This is a picture/honor system, so no cheating. Previous winners have won by a narrow margin, making for great finishes and friendly trash-talking.

10. Have Fun:
• Above all, everyone is required to have a good time!

Clarifications:

• No Yakking or Drones:
This is a shoreline casting event only.
• Fishing Restrictions:
No fishing off piers, bridges, docks, bulkheads, or jetties (boat ramps are okay if fishing is allowed and not impeding boat traffic). These rules are for your safety and the safety of the Bat Rays. Safety is paramount, and these structures pose high danger risks when dealing with big gear, rods, and fish.

We appreciate your cooperation and enthusiasm. Let's make this year's Saturday Night Bat Fight another memorable event!

Good Luck and may the best California County Win!!

Navy Jet Crashes into San Diego Bay: Recovery Efforts Underway

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San Diego, CA – On February 12, 2025, a U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler jet crashed into the San Diego Bay near Shelter Island during an aborted landing approach to Naval Air Station North Island. The incident occurred around 10:15 a.m. amid rainy and misty conditions.

Witnesses reported seeing the fighter jet flying at unusually low altitudes before it took a steep nosedive into the harbor. Fortunately, the two aviators on board safely ejected from the aircraft and were quickly rescued by the crew of a nearby fishing boat. They were taken to UCSD Medical Center in Hillcrest for evaluations and were reported to be in good condition.

The Navy has since launched a comprehensive recovery operation to retrieve the wreckage from the bay. As of now, more than 15 tons of debris have been recovered from a 13,000-square-foot underwater debris field2. The salvage efforts are expected to continue over the next two weeks, with scaled-down operations to follow.

Vice Adm. John Wade, commander of the U.S. 3rd Fleet, emphasized the importance of a careful and thorough recovery process to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved, including residents, service members, and partners. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Civilian boaters will regain access to the Shelter Island basin following the planned removal of heavy water-borne equipment brought in for the recovery. The Navy has expressed gratitude for the community's patience and support during this challenging time.

For more updates on the recovery efforts and the investigation, stay tuned to local news outlets.

:10News :San Diego Union-Tribune
Si ramp

Shelter Island Launch Ramp Temporarily Closed

The Shelter Island Boat Launch will be closed on Thursday as city crews work to remove a vessel that sank at the end of the ramp. The closure will last from approximately 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. as the Port of San Diego and the Harbor Police Department undertake the removal operation. Boaters already at sea will be able to land, but launching from Shelter Island will not be permitted during this time.

On November 13, a 35-foot boat was abandoned at the end of the ramp for unknown reasons. Harbor police issued a notice of violation and an order for the vessel's removal. When there was no response, a tow service was called. However, on November 15, as the tow service was en route, the boat began taking on water and eventually sank despite efforts to keep it afloat.
Attempts to contact the vessel’s owner have been unsuccessful.

Over the weekend, king tides pushed the boat under a section of the docks, complicating its removal. For the safety of workers and the public, the port must close the facility to safely and efficiently remove the vessel and manage any potential fuel leaks during the process, according to a statement from the agency. The port appreciates the boating community’s patience as they work to restore use of the boat launch.

The port aims to complete the removal and reopen the launch facility in time for the weekend.
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Angler Lands Potential World Record Yellowfin Tuna Aboard Excel

Ontario, CA – The sportfishing community is abuzz with excitement following an incredible catch aboard the long-range sportfishing vessel Excel. On a 10-day trip out of San Diego, California, angler Earl Gill IV potentially made history by reeling in a colossal 448-pound yellowfin tuna, a catch that could set a new IGFA world record.

This jaw-dropping catch, which may surpass the current record by a few pounds, was made possible thanks to Okuma’s Makaira 20 Size 2-speed Lever Drag Reel – a reel engineered for record-breaking battles. Earl hooked the massive yellowfin using chunk bait on 100-pound test line, and relied on a shoulder harness to withstand the intense, hours-long battle to bring the giant tuna aboard.

As the Excel sails back to San Diego, the anticipation is palpable. The yellowfin tuna will be weighed on an IGFA-certified scale on Saturday morning to confirm its world-record potential. The current IGFA record for the largest yellowfin tuna caught using all-tackle gear is 427 pounds, held by Guy Yocom.

"Here on the Excel, our mission is to put our anglers on the biggest fish in the ocean, but every now and then, we’re astonished by the sheer size of a catch," said Justin Fleck, Owner and Captain of the Excel. "We’re thrilled for Earl to reel in the fish of a lifetime and can’t wait to see if it sets a new IGFA record."

The giant yellowfin was caught using Okuma’s flagship Makaira Black model, featuring a silver-etched yellowfin tuna on its matte black frame. The Makaira continues to uphold its legendary reputation for toughness and raw power, built for epic showdowns like this. Should the weight be confirmed, the Makaira reel will forever be associated with this historic catch.

"Okuma Fishing Tackle is proud to have played a role in this legendary catch," said Michelle Gandola, Director of Marketing for Okuma. "Since 1986, Okuma Fishing USA has been dedicated to creating precision-engineered fishing gear that empowers anglers to live out unforgettable moments on the water. The Makaira series embodies our commitment to quality, combining the finest materials with thoughtful design to help anglers tackle the fiercest game fish."

The fishing community eagerly awaits the verification of this potential new world record, which would not only highlight Earl Gill IV’s incredible angling skills but also reinforce the reputation of Okuma’s Makaira reels in handling the most formidable catches in sportfishing history. Stay tuned for what could be a monumental moment in the world of fishing.

-Latimeria
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California Angler Sets New State Record with Colossal Swordfish Catch

In a remarkable display of skill and perseverance, San Diego angler Luc Ofield has set a new California state record with the catch of a massive swordfish weighing an astonishing 666 pounds. The record-breaking event occurred just off the coast of San Diego, a location renowned for its rich marine life and, as it turns out, record-setting swordfish.

Ofield, who is also the owner of Anglers Choice Tackle Shop, embarked on what would become a historic fishing trip late in October. After a grueling battle lasting over four hours, Ofield and his team managed to secure the giant swordfish. The catch was so large that it couldn't fit in the boat and required special handling to be brought ashore.

The swordfish, which tipped the scales at 666.2 pounds at The Marlin Club in Shelter Island, exceeded the previous state record by more than 100 pounds. This previous record was also set by a San Diego-area crew just last year, highlighting the region's potential for sport fishing enthusiasts seeking the thrill of a big catch.

The timing of Ofield's catch is noteworthy as it comes at the tail end of the swordfish season, which typically runs from late spring to early fall. This period is when the waters are warmest and most conducive to swordfish activity. The North Pacific swordfish, the type caught by Ofield, is one of the ocean's fastest and largest predators, capable of reaching speeds up to 50 miles per hour and growing up to 14 feet in length.

The significance of this catch is not lost on the angling community, as it showcases the dedication and respect for marine life that is central to the sport. Ofield himself expressed his admiration for the swordfish, acknowledging the intense battle and the creature's formidable strength.

This record-setting catch has not only earned Ofield a place in California's sportfishing history but also serves as a testament to the thriving swordfish population in the region's waters. It is a reminder of the ocean's mysteries and the surprises it holds for those willing to venture into its depths.

As the news of this incredible catch spreads, it is sure to inspire both seasoned anglers and newcomers to the sport, all eager to experience the thrill of the catch and the beauty of the sea. Ofield's achievement is a celebration of the sport, the community, and the magnificent creatures that call the ocean home.

-Latimeria

Verne Disney III Obituary

The passing of a fellow angler and friend
Learn More
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Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton, one of the most intense storms of the 2024 hurricane season, wreaked havoc on Florida’s Gulf Coast after making landfall on October 9. Initially a Category 5 storm while churning in the Gulf of Mexico, Milton weakened slightly to a Category 3 storm by the time it struck near Siesta Key in Sarasota County, but its impact was catastrophic. Residents faced a combination of deadly tornadoes, towering storm surges, and sustained winds over 120 mph. FOX Weather

In the immediate aftermath, widespread destruction was reported across central and western Florida. More than 3.3 million homes and businesses were left without power, with local authorities focusing on assessing damage and coordinating rescue efforts. Entire communities were plunged into chaos, with parts of Fort Myers, St. Petersburg, and other coastal cities inundated by floodwaters. Residents of a retirement village in St. Lucie County were among the victims of the deadly tornadoes spawned by Milton's outer bands​. The Independent

Tornadoes inflicted severe damage across multiple counties, particularly in Fort Myers, where roofs were torn off buildings and trees were uprooted. Some of the most dramatic damage occurred in St. Petersburg, where the roof of Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, was partially torn apart. A construction crane also collapsed into the offices of The Tampa Bay Times, further highlighting the storm's ferocity​. The Independent

The storm’s storm surge caused catastrophic flooding, particularly in low-lying areas along the coast. Waves as high as 28 feet battered shorelines, submerging homes and streets in water. Many communities were evacuated, but officials voiced concerns that some residents had stayed behind. In Bradenton, Police Chief Melanie warned that recovery teams would likely find bodies of those who did not heed evacuation orders.​ The Independent.

As of October 10, the death toll had risen to nine, with fatalities from both the storm surge and tornadoes. Emergency crews have been deployed for search and rescue operations, particularly in areas cut off by flooding. Officials have stressed the need for patience as power crews work to restore electricity and access to clean water is being repaired in many cities. Milton has since been downgraded to a Category 1 hurricane, but it continues to bring strong winds and heavy rain as it moves along the eastern seaboard. ​FOX Weather, The Independent.

The path to recovery will be long and arduous, with authorities now focusing on restoring essential services and beginning the massive cleanup effort across the state.

Remembering Verne Disney

A Friend and Fishing Community Icon
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Spencer sixgill

An Atlantic First... Land-Based Sharking

Story by Spencer Wonder

The coast of the #volcanicislands of the #atlanticocean are incredibly steep, which provided us with access to waters up to 1000 feet within just a few hundred yards of shore, which, given the current, sharp line angles, and rocky #coast, provided its own unique challenges from a #lbsf perspective.

The Broadnose Sixgill (Hexanchus griseus) is a fish we see quite regularly in the Pacific ocean but usually just juvenile fish. Well, that all changed in the #canaryislands in #northafrica when this #giantfish decided to pickup our #abyssal bait on the #terrafirmatackle #sharkfishing rig in nearly 1000’ of water, the deepest anyone has ever successfully deployed a bait in in #landbased #sharkfishing history!

We knew on the hook set that this would be a special animal, the heft and small run made on the heavy tackle indicated as much, but it wasn’t until we had the fish in the shallows that the magnitude would be apparent.

At over 13’ total length, this #broadnosesixgill shark is not only the largest specimen of its kind ever taken #landbased, it is also the 7th species of shark for #tft to break 13’ in length, the first #abyssal #sixgillshark taken from shore in the #atlanticocean, on the deepest bait ever deployed in this sport, and on an island that had never been #lbsf style fished before us! Quite the milestone not only for #tft, but for #landbasedsharkfishing as a whole!

These monumental experiences are owed entirely to our support network of #customers and partners, including @tightlinebraid who provides us with the line we can trust in these beyond challenging conditions!

#sixgill #hexanchus #catchandrelease #sportfishing #shark #catchandreleasefishing #seafishing #biggamefishing #landbased #landbasedgamefishing #surffishing #beachfishing #beachcasting #surfcasting #prehistoricsoul 
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Jigstrike sinking

The Jig Strike 

Hey Everyone. Been getting a lot of calls and messages already, so I wanted to post this.

At 1035 this morning, while motoring along out at Cortez Bank, we collided with something floating under the surface. The collision caused the portside of the bow to break away, and caused the Jig Strike to quickly take on water. I had enough time to grab the radio and put out a mayday call to the partner boats in the area, while the passengers were mustered to the stern and the crew passed out life jackets. I made the call to launch the liferaft, and in less than 5 minutes from the initial collision, I made the call to abandon ship. Only after making sure everyone was off the boat, and doing a last look around, I was last off the ship. Thankfully there were a number of boats in the area and we were picked up by the Legend, and brought back home.

I can't say what we hit, as I never saw it. The only thing I was concerned with after the accident was that we got everyone off and kept everyone safe.
After 15 years or so of working on the Jig Strike, never did I believe something like this would happen, but like life in general, we can never really predict what tomorrow will bring. All we can do now is keep moving forward and hope tomorrow is a better day.

Tight lines everyone.
Capt. Patrick, fv Jig Strike
Rasta

Rasta's July Surf Shark Session

With the new website starting from scratch, what better way to showcase one of our members than with a July surf shark session.  Click the link to direct you to Josh's surf adventure looking for Soupfin Shark.  The Learn More button will direct you to our forum where there are thousands of reports from surf perch to Sevengill Sharks.

7/6 Surf Shark Sesh (prehistoricsoulforum.com)
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