Video: Squid Invasion Could Help and Hurt Anglers

Humboldt squid the beaches of Northern Baja and Southern California, providing anglers with unique fishing opportunities.

The giant mollusks have appeared in coastal regions from Ensenada and British Columbia to the Channel Islands. These voracious squid meet unfamiliar objects with an aggressive response, and at times are cannibalistic. They have three hearts and can grow up to six feet long and weigh 100 pounds in about a year's time.

While they are welcome visitors for a time by fishermen, their long-term damage is thought to be pervasive. They will feed on calico and sand bass, as well as rockfish and other target sportfish.

"I have no doubt that they have hurt some of our fisheries," said Don Ashley, from Pierpoint Landing.

The jumbo squid are mostly caught at night, but also provide anglers with daytime action.