The proliferation of jumbo squid on the Southern California coast in recent days may seem a little scary if you swim around those parts.But for now, Orange County fishermen are cashing in on an explosion in angler interest in the feisty creatures.
"Our phone is ringing off the hook," Chris Cunningham, manager of Davey's Locker Sportfishing, told the Science Dude Blog.
"People are asking us which boat will have the smallest number of people, so they have room to catch them."
Other info worth noting:
- Hundreds of the squid have been caught since Thursday, when the fun started.
- The squid range from 20 to 40 pounds, but some have exceeded 60. These animals can grow up to 100 pounds, according to this Smithsonian Institute fact sheet.
- They really do squirt ink. It usually happens when they're lifted into the boat, fishermen report.
- These are night-time trips. That's when the squid feed, usually following schools of baitfish like anchovies.
In case you want to venture to Southern California to try your luck, here is some contact information:
- Davey’s Locker Sportfishing, (949) 673-1434.
- Newport Landing, (949) 675-0550.
- Dana Wharf, (800) 979-3370.
If not, you can at least watch some great videos like these:
