Discover the hidden world of Warm Water Cove Pier, where an industrial backdrop adjacent to a powerplant outfall conceals a fishing haven. Despite its unassuming appearance, the warm water from the outfall lures a diverse array of fish throughout the year, making it a favorite among local anglers. Unfortunately, as of July 2018, the pier is temporarily closed due to structural concerns, but we’ll delve into its past glory and offer alternative suggestions for your fishing adventures.
Types of Fish You Could Expect to Catch (When it Reopens):
- Perch (Year-round): Pile perch and white perch were the main attractions, with possibilities for rainbow, rubberlip, and walleye perch depending on the season. Bait fishing near the pilings and edges was the go-to.
- Sharks and Rays (Summer and Fall): Leopard sharks and Bat rays cruised the warmer waters, especially near the sandy bottom. Bait fishing with caution and respect was essential.
- Flatfish (Late Winter/Spring): Halibut and flounder sometimes ventured into the cove, particularly during low tides. Slow-drifted bait or lures near the bottom were key.
- Striped Bass (Migratory): During the winter and spring months, stripers occasionally chased baitfish along the shoreline and around the pier. Trolling or bait fishing could be productive.
Local Insights (From the Time It Was Open):
- Know the Tides: Low tides exposed more of the sandy bottom, attracting sharks, rays, and flatfish. High tides brought in more baitfish, luring perch and stripers closer to the pier.
- Fish the Pilings: Cast bait or small jigs near the pilings for an abundance of perch. This was also a prime spot for occasional Cabezon or Lingcod.
- Limited Space: The pier wasn’t very big, so be mindful of other anglers and avoid crossing lines. Share the space respectfully and enjoy the camaraderie.
- Keep It Light: Most fish here favored lighter tackle, so bring appropriate rods and reels for a fun fight.
- Respect the Environment: Warm Water Cove was a unique ecosystem. Be responsible, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.
Unique Things to Pay Attention To (For Future Reference):
- Strong Currents: The area could experience strong currents, especially during outgoing tides. Be cautious when wading and use proper anchoring if needed.
- Seasonal Changes: The fish populations and activity levels varied throughout the year. Research the best times for your target species and adjust your approach accordingly.
- Limited Parking: Parking near the pier might be challenging, especially on weekends. Consider alternative transportation like biking or public transit.
Specific Locations (For Future Reference):
- Pier End: Cast bait or small jigs for perch, stripers, and even the occasional halibut venturing near the surface. Keep an eye out for rays in the deeper areas.
- Sandy Areas Near the Shoreline: Try bait for sharks and rays during low tide. Flatfish might be lurking near the bottom too.
- Structure Around the Pilings: Fish near rocks and pilings with bait or jigs for perch, Cabezon (if lucky), and other bottom dwellers.
- Open Water Near the Channel: If stripers are on the move, trolling lures or baitfish along the edges of the cove could be productive.
Alternatives for Your Fishing Fix:
- Nearby Piers: Check out Pier 7, McCovey Cove Pier, or China Basin Park Pier for similar fishing experiences with pier access.
- Fishing Charters or Rentals: Consider joining a guided fishing trip or renting a boat to explore other parts of the Bay and target specific fish.
- Shore Fishing: Many spots along the Bay offer opportunities to cast a line from the shore. Research locations like Aquatic Park, Crissy Field, or Golden Gate Park shorelines for surf perch, rockfish, or stripers.
While Warm Water Cove Pier might be out of commission for now, its unique ecosystem and diverse fishing potential remain etched in the memories of local anglers. Hopefully, it will reopen soon, offering another gem in the Bay Area’s fishing crown. In the meantime, explore the alternatives, keep an ear out for news about Warm Water Cove Pier’s reopening, and most importantly, keep that fishing line wet!
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