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🌡️ What Is El Niño?
The so-called Super El Niño means very warm waters pushing up into Southern California. That brings exotic species north — more Marlin, possibly Blue Marlin, and possibly Wahoo in our area. The water is already unusually warm for this time of year, and it’s only going to get better.
📅 Historical Context — What Happened Before
The El Niño of ’82–’83 was legendary — loaded with Marlin and Big Eye Tuna we rarely see anymore. Then in 2015–2016, we had Wahoo at the rigs, Blue Marlin showing up alongside Skipjack, and Striped Marlin coming in en masse. Boats were averaging 2–3 fish a day. Flying Fish Outdoors tagged 76 Striped Marlin and 6 Blue Marlin that year — including a 400 lb Blue.
📍 Where the Fish Were in 2015
Most of the fishing was up on the Channel Islands as the El Niño progressed. Marlin ran from the west end of Catalina all the way out to the Osborne and up to the Channel Islands. If this year follows the same pattern, that’s exactly where you want to be set up by late summer.
🌟 What to Expect This Year
It’s shaping up to be a great year. The development is already happening down south — Cabo has been fishing incredibly well. Expect Marlin showing up around July, with a few already spotted. As the season progresses, the bite should build all the way through fall. Get ready.
📡 Stay in the Loop
As this El Niño develops, real-time updates will be posted in the FFO Live Blog. Ask live questions about presentation, baits, techniques, depth, and the current bite. Also check the Shop — we’ll be stocking the gear you’ll need for this season.
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