13,000 White Seabass Fingerlings Pumped Into Pens at Channel Islands!
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1328132159381062
Watch as thousands of baby white seabass fingerlings are carefully pumped from the transport truck straight into the holding pens at the Ventura County White Seabass Enhancement Facility in Channel Islands Harbor!
They received the first 4,000 yesterday from Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, with more deliveries coming in today and tomorrow — bringing the total to about 14,000 fish. These fingerlings will be raised right here before being released into the ocean to help boost our local white seabass population.
A huge thank you to Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, all the dedicated volunteers, and every partner in the Ocean Resources Enhancement and Hatchery Program (OREHP) who make this incredible conservation work possible!
Tackle Tips | Article submitted by Norm Rodewald | March 27, 2026
Understanding Avet reels.
There has been some confusion on Avet reels and the meaning of G2. The original Avet reel line, now often referred to as classic consisted of the SX, MX, JX, LX, ANS HX. These also had variants, a narrow version with the designator J and a wide version designated W. The normal method for rating a reel is to describe it by the maximum test line, with the maximum being approximately 3 times the free spool maximum drag. If the maximum free spool drag is 10 lbs, maximum line weight is 30 and reel is a 30 lb class reel. It is important to remember a well-engineered reel will have a sturdy frame and bearings appropriate to the line class. Many users put heavier line on and for bigger fish, pushed the lever from strike toward full. This put a lot of extra pressure on the drags and bearings.
The SX and Mx were pairs, small frame, large frame, as were the JX and LX. The SX and MX classic series had a free spool maximum drag of 9 lbs. They were 25-30 lb. class reels. The JX and LX had 13 lbs. so were 40 lb class reels. The HX at 17-19 lbs. was a 60 lb. class reel.
Avet released a second generation, retaining the old model designations, referred to G2. THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH TWO SPEED! The G2 upped the drag specifications and beefed up the overall reel internals to accommodate the higher loads. The SX free spool maximum drag is now 12 lbs. and the MX is 13. Both are now 40 lb. class reels. The JX and LX have a free spool maximum drag of 21lbs. and are 60 lb. class reels. The HX free spool maximum drag is now 21 or 22 lbs, depending on narrow or wide, and is still a 60 lb. class reel. Each of these have Raptor variants with much higher drag capability and in general push the line class up 30 lbs.
A note about the SXJ. As a rule, for saltwater reels, the spectra backing should be at least 50 lbs. The reason is the thinner lines will cut into itself when a bigger fish begins ripping off line. The SXJ narrower spool lets you use something like 30 lb. backing. For an inshore reel targeting calico bass in the kelp or slow pitch jigging, the SXJ with 30 lb. spectra backing makes an easy to cast, light weight reel with enough backbone to handle cutting through kelp or pulling on a school bluefin on a slow pitch jig.
The White Seabass pens are currently empty. We expect the next delivery of fish in March 2026.
Planning for the facility rehabilitation is still underway. Please watch your email for updates and announcements as plans progress.
Channel Islands Yacht Club Anglers Awards Lobster Dinner & Fundraiser
On November 8th, the CIYC Anglers Club held its Annual Anglers Awards Lobster Dinner. This year’s event also served as a fundraiser for the White Seabass Grow‑Out Pens.
We were fortunate to secure locally caught California Spiny Lobsters, which helped make this a sold‑out evening. Thank you to everyone who volunteered, donated funds, or contributed raffle items. We had an impressive selection of raffle and auction prizes, with many of the larger items generously donated by the Coastal Conservation Association of California.
Special thanks to Lisa Reaume, CIYC Director‑Elect, for coordinating the raffle and auction, and to CIYC Director John Canavan for stepping in as auctioneer at the last minute.
Angler Awards
Big Fish of the Year: Mike DeSart
Ladies Fishing Tournament Winner: Kelly Sherwood
Men’s Fishing Tournament Winner: Henry Rankel
Sportsman of the Year: James Glass, Commodore‑Elect for 2026
Event Crew Appreciation
Our Cooking Crew once again delivered an outstanding meal. Thank you to: Bill Magee, Frank Sullivan, Shelly Berger, James Glass, John Canavan, Dan Estabrook, and George Hornberger
We also appreciate Sharon Sullivan, Erika Barbaric, and the table‑setting crew for creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Fundraising Summary
Net proceeds from the dinner: $3,824.00
Additional donations received afterward: $1,050.00
Combined with existing Anglers account savings, these funds should be sufficient to complete the rehabilitation of the White Seabass Grow‑Out Pens.
A pre‑construction meeting will be scheduled before the end of the year. If you have construction skills or are willing to help, please reach out.
Frank Sullivan Grow‑Out Pen Volunteer Coordinator Channel Islands Harbor 805‑205‑4073
Report submitted by vcsc leader, Norm Rodewald on 11/8/25
We need to tell members that are planning to go fishing in Mexico (Cedros Island or Cabo for instance) that there are new tariff regulations.
A tourist is allowed to bring in four fishing sets (rod and reel) tax free. All rods and reels over the four-set limit are subject to a 19% tariff.
So, a $1000 Accurate ATD will result in a $190.00 tax. Fishermen arriving at Cabo to go big game fishing have been hit with bills over $500.
READ BELOW FOR MORE INFO /RESEARCH ON THIS SUBJECT:
Yes, in addition to the VCSC report, recent updates confirm that Mexico enforces a 19% import tariff on fishing gear exceeding four rod-and-reel sets per tourist. This policy is part of broader tariff reforms affecting recreational equipment and sportfishing gear.
🎣 Mexico’s Fishing Gear Tariff Policy (2025)
Tax-Free Allowance: Tourists may bring up to four fishing sets (rod and reel) into Mexico without paying tariffs.
Tariff Rate: Any additional rods or reels beyond the four-set limit are subject to a 19% import tax.
Example: A $1,000 reel like the Accurate ATD would incur a $190 tariff. Anglers traveling to Cabo or Cedros Island have reported tariff bills exceeding $500 for high-end gear.
📦 Broader Tariff Context
Aluminum Tariffs: Mexico has implemented 10–25% tariffs on aluminum imports, which may affect fishing reels and accessories made from aluminum.
De Minimis Entry Rules: While products under $800 in value may qualify for tax exemption under de minimis rules, enforcement varies and may not apply to sportfishing gear.
Sportfishing Industry Impact: The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) has flagged these tariffs as disruptive, especially for anglers traveling with specialized equipment.
🧭 Travel Tips for Anglers
Pack Smart: Limit your gear to four rod-and-reel sets to avoid extra fees.
Declare Honestly: Mexican customs officials are actively enforcing these rules, especially at popular sportfishing destinations like Cabo San Lucas.
Consider Shared Gear: If traveling with a group, coordinate gear to stay within limits.
Stay Updated: Tariff enforcement and exemptions may shift, so check with your charter operator or local consulate before traveling.
“Join the Friedman Adventures family as we dive into the ultimate fishing paradise at Hyun’s Tackle Shop in Ventura, California! In this fun-filled episode, we’re taking you on an exclusive tour of this legendary spot that’s been outfitting anglers for over 20 years. From surf fishing essentials to heavy-duty gear for offshore big game battles and everything you need for freshwater fun, Hyun’s has it all – rods, reels, lures, bait, licenses, and pro tips from the super-friendly staff!
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll love seeing our family’s reactions to the massive selection and cool custom setups. We even snag some insider advice on Ventura’s best spots to cast a line. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more family adventures on the water!
Store Info:
Location: 3695 E Harbor Blvd, Suite 302, Ventura, CA 93001
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
“Let’s take them deep sea fishing,” Rick Lane from the Ventura County Sportfishing Club said. From that one idea, a beautiful tradition began. Now each year, more than 30 youth living in care get the chance to experience something they will never forget: a day on the ocean, surrounded by nature, joy, and community.
This year’s trip set off from Ventura Harbor aboard the Californian. For many of these kids, it was their first time on the ocean. Some had never been on a boat, never seen the Channel Islands up close, or ever held a fishing rod. That all changed within an hour. Every fish pulled in brought a wide-eyed look, a smile, a cheer.
But the real catch wasn’t the fish. It was something deeper: making new friends, sharing snacks, watching the waves, seagulls and dolphins, nothing else mattered.
Thank you to Rick Lane, the Ventura County Sportfishing Club, and the dedicated crew of the #Californian for turning a simple idea into a life-changing experience.
Charter 1 is the Island Spirit on SATURDAY April 26.
Cost is $160. The load limit is 25, but this boat maxes at 49 passengers. Jim Krehbiel and Rick Lane took the boat out with 32 this December and that was too many. We decided 25 would be a good load. Even with 32 we limited. The crew is excellent. Daniel the skipper is fantastic, right up there with Tucker. We leave at 6 a.m. and return around 4.
Charter 2 is the Endeavor on Thursday, May 15.
We leave at 10 p.m. on May 14. With a limited load of 15 this trip is going to be great. Cost is $350. Rick will be assigning bunks in order of sign up, so get on list!
Charter 3 is the Mirage on Tuesday June 17.
We leave at 10 p.m. on Monday June 16. We are limiting the load to 17 and the cost is $330. Plenty of you requested this boat, so here you are! This is the first day you can legally catch 3 white sea bass.
Charter 4 is the Mirage on Thursday July 17.
We leave at 10 p.m. on Wednesday July 16. We are limiting the load to 17 and the cost is $330.
Charter 5 is the Endeavor on Saturday, August 9.
We leave at 10 p.m. on Aug 8. With a limited load of 15 this trip is going to be excellent. Cost is $350. Tucker is the skipper.
Charter 6 is the Island Spirit on SATURDAY Sept 6.
A limited load of 25 and cost is $160. We leave at 6 a.m. and return around 4.
Charter 7 is the Endeavor on Oct 6
leaving at 10p.m. Oct 5. This trip may change depending on if Tuna are around. Cost is $350.
RSVP & PAYMENT POLICY
No money now, but full payment will be required 30 days prior.
Notices will be sent to those of you who signed up 45 days prior to the trip.
Zelle, checks, Venmo – instructions will be emailed out to you.
No payment for multiple trips. Your treasurer gets confused if a trip is cancelled.
Notices will go out for the first trip on Feb 10, and full payment by Feb 26.
Notices for trip 2 will go out April 1, with full payment by April 15. You get the idea.
LIST OF LANDINGS (BY LOCATION)
VENTURA AREA – Our home base
Channel Island Sportfishing, 4151 S. Victoria Ave. • Oxnard, CA 93035
Ciscos’s 4151 S Victoria Ave. Oxnard Ca, 93035 / 805-382- 1612
Hooks Landing 3600 Harbor Blvd. Oxnard Ca. 93035 / 805-382-6233
Ventura Sportfishing, 1500 Anchors Way DR. Ventura Ca. 93001 / 805- 676- 3474
SAN DIEGO / SAN PEDRO AREA
Seaforth Landing, 1717 Quivira Rd San Diego Ca. 92109 / 619-224-3383
22nd Street Landing 141 W 22nd Street San Pedro Ca. 90731 / 310-832-8304
H&M Landing 2803 Emerson St. San Diego Ca. 92106 / 619-222-1144
Fisherman’s Landing 2838 Garrison St. San Diego Ca. 92106
Point Loma Sportsfishing 1403 Scott St. San Diego Ca. 92106 / 619-226-6006
We have an exciting charter schedule this year. Notice that 3 of the charters are Saturday (by popular request).
Charter 1 is the Island Spirit on SATURDAY April 26. Cost is $160. The load limit is 25, but this boat maxes at 49 passengers. Jim Krehbiel and Rick Lane took the boat out with 32 this December and that was too many. We decided 25 would be a good load. Even with 32 we limited. The crew is excellent. Daniel the skipper is fantastic, right up there with Tucker. We leave at 6 a.m. and return around 4.
Charter 2 is the Endeavor on Thursday, May 15. We leave at 10 p.m. on May 14. With a limited load of 15 this trip is going to be great. Cost is $350. Rick will be assigning bunks in order of sign up, so get on list!
Charter 3 is the Mirage on Tuesday June 17. We leave at 10 p.m. on Monday June 16. We are limiting the load to 17 and the cost is $330. Plenty of you requested this boat, so here you are! This is the first day you can legally catch 3 white sea bass.
Charter 4 is the Mirage on Thursday July 17. We leave at 10 p.m. on Wednesday July 16. We are limiting the load to 17 and the cost is $330.
Charter 5 is the Endeavor on Aug 9. This is a SATURDAY on the Endeavor! We leave at 10 p.m. on Aug 8. With a limited load of 15 this trip is going to be excellent. Cost is $350. Tucker is the skipper.
Charter 6 is the Island Spirit on SATURDAY Sept 6. A limited load of 25 and cost is $160. We leave at 6 a.m. and return around 4.
Charter 7 is the Endeavor on Oct 6 leaving at 10p.m. Oct 5. This trip may change depending on if Tuna are around. Cost is $350.
No money now, but full payment will be required 30 days prior. Notices will be sent to those of you who signed up 45 days prior to the trip. Zelle, checks, Venmo – instructions will be emailed out to you. No payment for multiple trips. Your treasurer gets confused if a trip is cancelled. Notices will go out for the first trip on Feb 10, and full payment by Feb 26. Notices for trip 2 will go out April 1, with full payment by April 15. You get the idea.
