Grunion Run: Tiny Edible Fish To Invade SoCal Beaches This Week. Here's Where

SANTA BARBARA, CA — Southern California beachgoers can catch some waves — and a few fish — Tuesday night after state officials lifted fishing restrictions on the grunion run.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced on Friday the grunion are expected to return to the Southland between Tuesday and Friday, July 17. Those lucky enough to see the spectacle can capture the little bait fish as well, starting this month.

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"One of California's most extraordinary wildlife events happens after dark during a short window of time and on a few special beaches," California Department of Fish and Wildlife officials said.

"Beaches are scouted by grunion in advance so every run there is no guarantee your favorite beach will be visited. Once a run begins, and in a true test of fishy strength, grunion storm the beach to lay their eggs away onshore during the high tide. This rare and special event is timed with the moon and tidal cycles."

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife's forecast predicts grunion runs at Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro. The timing of the grunion runs varies at different places along the coast. For example, San Diego runs occur about 5 minutes earlier, and Santa Barbara runs occur about 25 minutes later than the forecast times provided by the state.

Grunion Run Schedule:

• July 14: 9:45 p.m. – 11:45 p.m.
• July 15: 10:35 p.m. – 12:35 a.m.
• July 16: 11:20 p.m. – 1:20 a.m.
• July 17: 12:10 a.m. – 2:10 a.m.

"While grunion spawn on many beaches in southern California, CDFW does not recommend any particular beach because of changing safety conditions and local curfews," they added.

The state Department of Fish and Wildlife is responsible for protecting and overseeing the grunion population and sets strict rules for harvesting grunion, which are considered a vulnerable staple in the marine ecosystem.

Fish and wildlife officials reminded the public they are allowed to take the edible fish that spring up on beaches, but the grunion must be caught by hand. State law prohibits fishermen from taking more than 30 grunion.

Fishermen are also prohibited from taking grunion during "no-take season," which usually occurs annually from April 1 through June 30.

Additional fishing rules set by the state include:

• Fishermen ages 16 and older must have a valid Sport Fishing License.
• Hole-digging to set fish traps is prohibited.
• To fish in ocean water south of Point Arguello, a California Sport Fishing License and an Ocean Enhancement Validation are required for this specific zone.

The next grunion run is forecast to return to Southern California on July 29.