Dec. 7, 2024
Out for our first black water dive with the fishing light. Phil anchored on the edge of Redondo Canyon, hoping to attract nighttime zooplankton or fish. Previously, over a reef, we'd attracted polychaete worms. But 5 nights ago, we got more than we bargained for.

Doryteuthis opalescens, the opalescent squid, showed up to the light within minutes. Thousands surrounded the boat as Phil watched the fishfinder record 30 ft., but we were anchored in 80 ft. I had to swat away squid that got between me and the camera housing. Once a female was captured by a male, other males would often rush in to grab the prize. It was mayhem.

When returned 3 nights later to shoot wide angle, squid were still out in force. Viz was hampered a bit by squid and sea lion poop, 54-55 degrees.

Multiple grabbing