Monstrous lobsters grab fishing spotlight

Near-shore areas are not exactly crawling with lobsters, but divers and hoop-netters have noted an increase in activity since the recent full moon.

Check out the 7- and 11-pound bugs Matt Kari is holding in the photo. The Yorba Linda fisherman was aboard Liquid Coast Highway, which runs nightly charters out of Huntington Harbor. Cost is $600 for six people, and the price includes nets, bait and -- perhaps most enticing -- beer.

Capt. Dave Hansen did not reveal where he was fishing in a live interview Monday night with 976-TUNA, but lobsters have been captured inside and outside the harbor.

Meanwhile, Purfield's Pro Tackle is reporting good hoop-netting just  after dark in Santa Monica Bay and adds that fresh bonito is more effective than frozen bait.

Orange County coastal waters are also producing lobsters to about 10 pounds, close to shore.

Those wishing to learn more about hoop-netting should consider attending 976-TUNA's seminar Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. at National Sports Grill in Torrance. Hansen, along with experts from Promar Products, which manufactures hoop nets, will discuss techniques.

The seminar will include a raffle that will give away hoop nets and a trip aboard Liquid Coast Highway. For details call Richie at (310) 328-8426.

-- Pete Thomas

Photo courtesy of Liquid Coast Highway

Comments

[Pete Thomas]

Jon,

That's generally the case, but I think these two would taste fine. They're large, but not freakishly large and old. I guess my headline is misleading and I apologize. pt

[Jon K.]

I thought the jumbo sized lobsters don't even taste good.