Worst La Jolla report ever. 9.15.18

[Semper Fi-shing]

https://www.gofundme.com/david-petronovich

What can I say, I'm still a little shocked.

The morning started out as any other with the exception of big breakers and swells.
Parked next to the same guy I see there almost every saturday.......skinny guy with an older beige or white Toyota pickup truck, green outback.

Me, green outback, and another guy whom I just met started our launch together at a little past 6am. Green outback powered thru the waves, no problem. I hopped onto my yak but was 3 or 4 minutes behind the green outback, getting pounded and thrown off my yak on the beach after my mirage drive bottomed on the sand and left me motionless.

Finally made it out to the vicinity of the green outback, which I saw briefly in the corner of my eyes. I didnt see the yakker on his yak, however, before I realized that something was wrong.

20 feet from his yak, I saw something floating in the water. As I pedaled closer, I realized it was the yakker's life jacket. I went into panic mode and rushed over to pick up the jacket, only to realize that the yakker was still in it, face in the water, hands dangling and motionless.

I yelled as loud as I could "911, man overboard" over towards the beach but with the waves breaking so loudly, I couldnt tell if anyone along the beach heard me. I kept yelling as loudly as I could over and over.

The other yakker whom I just met earlier came up to me and helped me get his lifeless body onto my yak. I ripped the unconscious yakkers' eyeglass strap inadvertently and almost flipped in the process.

We finally got his body onto my yak and another yakker met up with us and called 911.

The yakker started to foam heavily at the mouth and his fingers were already turning dark purple.Lifeguards responded immediately and got his body onto their surfboard within 10 of call and paddled him back to shore where emt performed emergency procedures to shock him and try to revive him

The yakker must have been unconscious for a good 30 minutes before they finally took him to the hospital.

All of us yakkers were wading in the water afterwards trying to find the daiwa lexa 300 reel and yellow rod that was lost when the yakker who was towing the victims green outback coming in flipped.

After 30 minutes of wading around in the water, something bumped my thigh. I picked it up......it was the victims glasses. I dont know what to think of that.

BTW if someone finds the rod and reel, please let me know so I can return it to its rightful owner and also any updates on the status of the green yakker.

My biggest regret is that all the time I see this person, I just mainly went about my own business, didnt talk to him much, and never even asked his name.

In the future, I will never launch and kayak fish alone ever again like I normally do.
And as a note, just because u make it thru the surf doesnt mean everything is clear.

I still cant comprehend how he ended up in the water. Only to speculate that he somehow fell off his yak, hit his head on his yak, and knocked himself unconscious. Or maybe had a seizure.

I thank all the yakkers that helped me thru this ordeal and hope no one has to go thru the same thing I went thru today.

https://www.gofundme.com/david-petronovich

I will be at La Jolla this saturday to try and help Dave's family thru the healing process and I welcome the community to join us.

[Ggiannig89]

Wow. I’m speechless. Sorry you had to go through this. Definitely makes me a little uncomfortable. Thoughts and prayers to the the guy and his family through this ordeal.

[jbl_91762]

Oh my! Its never easy to witness a life threatening situation, but you potentially saved the mans life and you should have no ill feelings or regrets about anything! Not everyone we come across is the friendly type many times its a simple head nod now a days for a hello. Dont let this discourage you from going out alone, however maybe we ALL should start wearing our life vests. I am guilty of kayaking my local waters without mine (its strapped down in the bungee) but I feel I am a strong swimmer and in well above average shape, however, you never know right?! What story Marine and know that you did all you could. Hope the other yak gent finds his Lexa. and yes that definetly is the worst lajolla report. I pray the guy pulls through, so sad.

[tennesseestud]

Way to do what you could. It sounds like you did the best and acted fast in a bad situation. I'll be thinking of him and his family and trying to remember each day is a gift.

[bolocop]

JBL...OP states the victim was wearing his life vest. Life vests provide buoyancy but not necessarily makes you float face up?

[steveooo]

Woah, thats heavy. I cant imagine. I pray you get the peace you deserve in this situation. Also pray for our fellow yakker, that he ends up ok.

[yakety-yak]

Likely over-exerted himself on his power-launch...outbacks aren't exactly performance models. Good lookin'-out...sounds like you might've gotten to him in time. Oh, and anyone who needs proof paddle vests don't offer all the righteous protection of a full-y blown PFD, here you go.

[Orca Winfrey]

Holy crap! You are a hero. Hope the guy lives.

[Gigafish]

Wow, tough spot to be in. Hope you are ok and the guy you saved.

[bubbacee7]

Tough morning. Great response. Great community response. Buddy fish and have ALL YOUR SAFETY GEAR.

[ProfessorLongArms]

Glad you were there to help out.
I find these a valuable reminder of how dangerous our playground can be and I appreciate you sharing. I hope he pulls through ok.

[skrilla]

Glad to share the waters with people like yourselves. You guys did what you could without hesitation. Props for gathering his belongings as well. And afterwards you rethought how you could have done better. Hell of a characteristic to have my man. Hope dude pulls through. Big reality check for all.

[Semper Fi-shing]

We tried so hard to paddle him back to shore with the yakker on my lap but with his head and feet dangling in the water, even with help from multiple yakkers, we were not able to steer and get forward momentum towards the shore before lifeguards showed up.
So I sat in my yak frantic, holding up his head out of water with one hand and his shorts with the other so I wouldnt lose him back into the water or tip over.

I had one foot on another yakkers yak for extra stability, during which I looked into the yakkers eyes, wide open , and foaming at the mouth. I didnt notice any bruising on his head or cuts on his body.

In retrospect, I dont know if trying to get him back to shore would have been a smart idea, even if I could. With the waves break so hard, the yakker might have been tossed like a rag doll in the surf and broken his neck.

I talked to some bystanders on the beach that said they saw the guy off his yak before I reached him and they knew something was wrong. They yelled back at three people in the balconies behind the sidewalk to call 911 and they didnt do anything.

It definately will not be the same next time If I pull up to the beach to launch and dont see the same old beige toyota pickup.

[Raskal311]

Speechless.... and thank goodness you found him in time.

[Semper Fi-shing]

I dont know if I found him in time, but I truly hope so, as I dont know of his current condition

[ProfessorLongArms]

I dont know if I found him in time, but I truly hope so, as I dont know of his current condition

FYI there’s a thread in general... Andy said he’s stable but unconscious

[Semper Fi-shing]

Thanks. That's what I been hearing from a friend of yakkers friend

[kurt]

That's a tough morning. You did all you could. Getting him out of the water gave him the chance to live, and you and the others who did that, can't be commended enough. It's not easy to pull someone onto a kayak like that. We can only hope he fully recovers and can get back on the kayak, doing the sport we love. And this is a great reminder to wear your PFD. Accidents don't call and schedule themselves.

[Semper Fi-shing]

Watch "Kayaker found face down in ocean" on YouTube
https://youtu.be/Q4Aoc8Zpb_E

Glad to hear he has a pulse

[GTboosted]

The stars aligned.

You texted me on Wednesday to go out locally but I couldn't due certain circumstances.

Then you went out to LJ and possibly saved a life!

If this doesnt get anyone to wear a pfd I dont know what will.

[Mr. NiceGuy]

In the future, I will never launch and kayak fish alone ever again like I normally do.

.... pulls mustache, .... ponders ....

Best wishes to the victim of the accident and to everyone else involved.

[with a heavy heart]

[goldenglory18]

I've been VERY hesitant to fish outside of the harbor walls by myself. Stopped myself more than a few times because something "just didnt seem right."

I'm so sorry you had to experience that. Kudos for doing the right thing and sticking around to help...

[HELLSTER INC.]

Any updates on his condition?

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[Semper Fi-shing]

I called scripps memorial hospital and left a message requesting an update on the status of him but no one has gotten back to me.

[Semper Fi-shing]

I was able to reach I.C.U......the nurse could not disclose information on his status to non family members

[Davesdad]

What can I say, I'm still a little shocked.

The morning started out as any other with the exception of big breakers and swells.
Parked next to the same guy I see there almost every saturday.......skinny guy with an older beige or white Toyota pickup truck, green outback.

Me, green outback, and another guy whom I just met started our launch together at a little past 6am. Green outback powered thru the waves, no problem. I hopped onto my yak but was 3 or 4 minutes behind the green outback, getting pounded and thrown off my yak on the beach after my mirage drive bottomed on the sand and left me motionless.

Finally made it out to the vicinity of the green outback, which I saw briefly in the corner of my eyes. I didnt see the yakker on his yak, however, before I realized that something was wrong.

20 feet from his yak, I saw something floating in the water. As I pedaled closer, I realized it was the yakker's life jacket. I went into panic mode and rushed over to pick up the jacket, only to realize that the yakker was still in it, face in the water, hands dangling and motionless.

I yelled as loud as I could "911, man overboard" over towards the beach but with the waves breaking so loudly, I couldnt tell if anyone along the beach heard me. I kept yelling as loudly as I could over and over.

The other yakker whom I just met earlier came up to me and helped me get his lifeless body onto my yak. I ripped the unconscious yakkers' eyeglass strap inadvertently and almost flipped in the process.

We finally got his body onto my yak and another yakker met up with us and called 911.

The yakker started to foam heavily at the mouth and his fingers were already turning dark purple.Lifeguards responded immediately and got his body onto their surfboard within 10 of call and paddled him back to shore where emt performed emergency procedures to shock him and try to revive him

The yakker must have been unconscious for a good 30 minutes before they finally took him to the hospital.

All of us yakkers were wading in the water afterwards trying to find the daiwa lexa 300 reel and yellow rod that was lost when the yakker who was towing the victims green outback coming in flipped.

After 30 minutes of wading around in the water, something bumped my thigh. I picked it up......it was the victims glasses. I dont know what to think of that.

BTW if someone finds the rod and reel, please let me know so I can return it to its rightful owner and also any updates on the status of the green yakker.

My biggest regret is that all the time I see this person, I just mainly went about my own business, didnt talk to him much, and never even asked his name.

In the future, I will never launch and kayak fish alone ever again like I normally do.
And as a note, just because u make it thru the surf doesnt mean everything is clear.

I still cant comprehend how he ended up in the water. Only to speculate that he somehow fell off his yak, hit his head on his yak, and knocked himself unconscious. Or maybe had a seizure.

I thank all the yakkers that helped me thru this ordeal and hope no one has to go thru the same thing I went thru today. Hello,my name is John.I'm Dave's father.Unfortunately he's most likely not going to survive this tragedy.Right now we're waiting on one last test to determine brain death.All tests have already indicated he's no longer with us but for peace of mind we asked for one more test.We're not exactly sure what happened yet but we do know he may have had a heart defect that caused him to pass out.This was discovered while he was in ICU on life support.Dave has been fishing since he was old enough to hold a fishing pole,about 2 years old.He's always been one lucky (and very skilled) fisherman.Always able to adapt and catch something no matter where we were.From Carp to Tuna he caught it and always enjoyed it.I'm a very proud Dad and also very sad at this time.I'm here to tell those that helped how much i appreciate their efforts to save his life ! i just don't know how to say thank you enough,you guys did your best.I would also like to help out the guy that lost his rod and reel if i could.I thought i'd post this tonight just to get you guys some answers.I'm very tired and upset because of these last couple of days.I'll check in tomorrow some time if i'm able to.I have a very difficult decision to make at the hospital but will try and get back here.Thanks,John

[swinginFish]

Was a time when the kayak fishing community was smaller and tighter, but a tragedy such as this brings out our collective sadness and shared feelings of sorrow. Kind of you, John, to take a moment to let us know the unfortunate status of your son, Dave, and deep sympathy as you face an extremely hard decision. While several of the kayak-fishing community were there to try and save your son, we are all there to share your grief. Blessing to you sir in this most difficult time.

Avery Ellisman

[katchfish]

Well put Avery!

[kpasadr]

Hello,my name is John.I'm Dave's father.Unfortunately he's most likely not going to survive this tragedy.Right now we're waiting on one last test to determine brain death.All tests have already indicated he's no longer with us but for peace of mind we asked for one more test.We're not exactly sure what happened yet but we do know he may have had a heart defect that caused him to pass out.This was discovered while he was in ICU on life support.Dave has been fishing since he was old enough to hold a fishing pole,about 2 years old.He's always been one lucky (and very skilled) fisherman.Always able to adapt and catch something no matter where we were.From Carp to Tuna he caught it and always enjoyed it.I'm a very proud Dad and also very sad at this time.I'm here to tell those that helped how much i appreciate their efforts to save his life ! i just don't know how to say thank you enough,you guys did your best.I would also like to help out the guy that lost his rod and reel if i could.I thought i'd post this tonight just to get you guys some answers.I'm very tired and upset because of these last couple of days.I'll check in tomorrow some time if i'm able to.I have a very difficult decision to make at the hospital but will try and get back here.Thanks,John

Sir, I am so sorry about your son. I can't even imagine how hard this must be. It speaks volumes about your character and likely that of your son's that you would take the time to share this information and offer to help with other's material losses at a time like this.

If it at all helps, I am a pediatric ICU doctor and would be happy to answer any questions you may have about congenital heart disease, brain death or anything else as you have to make choices no father ever should. Feel free to send a PM or I can give you a call.

[seck66]

Hello,my name is John.I'm Dave's father.Unfortunately he's most likely not going to survive this tragedy...

John,

I'm truly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine how I could have the composure and kindness you've expressed here. Dave, you and your family are in my prayers.

To those who assisted Dave, bless you. I'm a relative newbie to this group and I'm continually amazed at how helpful and friendly this community is. I'm not surprised to hear how many folks pitched in to try to help Dave.

The care and concern expressed over Dave and his condition is the only silver lining in this tragic loss.

-Paul

[Davesdad]

Thank you guys for the kind words.Does anybody know the guy that lost his rod and reel ? My hope is to be at the shores early Saturday to find those that helped and personally thank them.I will confirm that later this week after i take care of Dave and get this situation a little bit more behind me.It's tough i'm sure you can imagine.Just a little note about Dave,he was kind of shy and not real open around those he didn't know.His best buddy Levi was his usual fishing partner on Sundays.The two were sort of competitive but always helped each other with finding bait or tackle needs and even chasing down fish.I'll check back later.Thanks.

[Natural_one]

John,

Thank you for taking the time to update everyone. I can't begin to understand what you and your family are going through, but it's evident Dave is a great kid raised by a kind and generous father. Lean on this community for anything you feel we could do. Praying for wisdom and peace over your family through the these next days as you make decisions. -Tyler

[Mr. NiceGuy]

Hello,my name is John. I'm Dave's father.


I am so, so sad to read about Dave's tragic misfortune while kayaking on the beautiful ocean in La Jolla, doing what he loves. I can not begin to imagine the amount pain and emotional suffering you and your family are going through now. Tears are flowing down both cheeks.


With very deepest sympathy,

Stan Schutze

[FISH11]

I, like a lot of the members of the local kayak fishing community want to pass on our deeply felt condolences to you John and your family. I can' imagine what it's like for you to have taken the time to inform us. I want to thank you because, I know there a lot of members here that needed to know how Dave was doing. I can only relate that when my time comes, I hope to be doing one of my favorite enjoyments and Kayak fishing in La Jolla is #1 on my list. Thank You John and GOD bless Dave.

[sharonkayak]

I am so saddened to read all of this. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family. Impossible to read this without a dry eye.

[Iceman]

John, my deepest sympathy on your shouldering this father's decision that no father should have to endure. Prayers for you, David and all who love him. We kayak fishermen are all part of the same family, please do not be afraid to ask us of anything at all on David's behalf.

[tunaseeker]

wow... I hope he makes it. Very unfortunate situation. I hope you heal from this experience too!

[kayakfisherman]

I'm just in tears...

[rhyak]

Wow, cant imagine what you are going through as a father right now, and sad do hear about the news of Dave.

[landwhale]

i am so filled with sadness I don't know what to say.

[JohnMckroidJr]

Kudos to those who responded to this traumatic tragedy for handling it well. Grave Condolence for Dave's dad and family.

[Raskal311]

This brings chills to my spine and as a father and a kayaker I am at lost for word.

My thoughts are with you and your son John.

[PAL]

John, so very sorry to hear of Dave's sad condition. I've walked this road as a father. It's a tough one to say the least. If there's anything we can do as a community to help, please let us know. Our hearts are with Dave, you and the rest of your family and all of Dave's friends.

Something to think about at this unthinkable time. When my son James passed, he gave the gift of life to several people and medically helped dozens more through organ and tissue donation. We'd much rather have him with us, but we are proud of our son's legacy.

[h2ofishfo]

Geeez man of all the places for a heart ailment to show itself . Prayers to your family .

[Kayak_Bernie]

I met David only once but I still wanted to offer my heartfelt and sincere condolences for you and your family during these terrible times.

Our community is here to support you, please just ask, and we will do everything we can to make it happen.

I know it comes with little solace but at least he was doing something he loved with his last moments on earth. David's soul will be forever tied to the place that we ALL love so much, each time we visit rest assured that Dave will be watching over this community and the place he loved so much. We should all be so lucky to be doing something we love when our time comes.

My wife is a Genetic Professional at UCSD Hospital so if you have any questions regarding congenital heart defects PM me and I will be happy to get her professional opinion for you.

If the words Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy are being listed as potential cause, then you should ask to see a genetic counselor, they can help you figure out if anyone else in the family is at risk for the genetic condition.

Again, so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you

[Tman]

John,

Such sad news to hear, I hope you and your family stay strong at a time like this, our deepest condolences to you, your family, and Dave's friends.

The efforts of those that pulled him out of the water, much respect.

[momo fish]

Dave..

So sorry for your loss.. as a father I can’t even begin to imagine the pain of your loss and anything you need this community will be here with our support ..

[Davesdad]

Thanks everybody for the kind words and your thoughts.This morning Dave was declared brain dead and is still on life support awaiting the recipients for organ donation.This is a blow to me and it's so tough i don't know how to handle it other than to reach out to those that helped and are concerned.They think he may have had a heart condition that causes a weird heartbeat and lack of blood flow which can cause fainting.We're just not sure yet.Thank you guys for the support,i need it.

[Davesdad]

I thought i saw a post where somebody said they would be at the Shores at 5 am Saturday,now i can't find it.I'm a little disoriented right now.I will be there before 5.Somebody also mentioned sharing this on facebook,yes it's ok with me.I'm still learning to navigate this site.

[Gigafish]

My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. Strength and guidance. Very difficult to process. Stay strong.

[jbl_91762]

Thank you John for informing us about your son Dave. After hearing about the accident I prayed and wished he would be ok. I will continue to pray for you, your family and of course Dave.

[NICKWORN]

Sorry to hear about your loss, tough to hear one of our brothers has lost his life in this tragedy!!

I shared a FB post with the gofundme with our east coast brothers-South Florida Kayak Fishing Club as they had heard of the news and wanted to be updated! It just goes to show the brotherhood involved in this passion we all share!

Rest in Paradise David!!

[Biggameaddict]

Sorry you had to experience this as a father. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.

[stevie951]

I shared a FB post with the gofundme with our east coast brothers

Rest in Paradise David!!

GoFundMe for this gentleman and his family? Can we get the information here?

Have not seen such.. would love to donate to the family and or whatever charity they prefer..

[makobob]

GoFundMe for this gentleman and his family? Can we get the information here?

Have not seen such.. would love to donate to the family and or whatever charity they prefer..

Please try SDKF there is a GoFundMe, please support if you can. Thank you.

[Hunters Pa]

I am at a loss for what to say that may bring any comfort. We are a close family that transcends demographics to pursue our passion. What affects one of us hits us all to varying degrees, regardless of whether we were personally close

As previously said, let us know if there is anything that we can do. A paddle out?

Someone please post the link to the gofundme here. I tried searching for SDKF and did not come up with anything.

Paddle on, brother.

[NICKWORN]

Separate thread

[LEEZO]

My heart goes out to you and family as well. Hang in there throughout this process and know you have enormous support.

[easyday]

I know it’s been said many times, but i offer my condolences and again as many before have said if there’s anything at all that you or your family needs please reach out. This community will do anything possible to help!

[Davesdad]

Thank you guys for the support.Even though i break down and cry every time i read through this it is so comforting to know that Dave and our family have the support.I'm speaking for his mother,stepmom,two sisters,aunts,uncles and grandparents that have read these kind words from all of you.This helps us a lot.

[Margarita Mike]

Prayers to you and your family, Like Andy the " Iceman " has said we are all here for you. Again, wishing the best.

[Tekniks]

condolences! and prayers for your fam

[BenCantrell]

Davesdad, I'm so sorry for you loss.

[Master-baiter]

Like some, I did not know Dave but I have seen him at La Jolla, either on the beach or on the water. Like the rest of this community, it saddens me and I am so sorry to hear and I cannot imagine the hardship you and your family are going through. My deepest sympathy to the family and hope that someday you find peace and comfort.

Sam


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[fresh to salt]

Davesdad, I am so sorry to hear about this terrible tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with your family right now as I try to hold back tears at work...

[Orca Winfrey]

Hi Dave’s dad. I’m very sorry about your son please take care.

[Sdspeed]

Dave's Dad, My family sends it's heart felt prayers and condolences with the hope that the great memories of your son will ease the pain in this tragic time.
Rory B.

[Sivak]

John:

Sooooooooo sorry this happened. What a tragic life changing event. Your description of Dave sounds like anyone of us competitive kayak fisherman. I never met Dave but I can tell you he would certainly not want you or your family to be sad at this time. There's no question he would want the best for all of you.

To the rescue effort group - good on all of you!

I don't understand why these things happen... Heart breaking story

RIP Dave, we will always remember you.

[DESTROYER]

We have had some great tragedies over the past 20 years within the kayak community. Even though I don't kayak fish any longer I will always consider myself part of the kayak community. We have always pulled together and helped each other out in hard times. I know you all did when my Dad got sick.

John-

I did not know your son but like him I Love Fishing. I've always said when its my time to go I hope I'm on the water. As a father to young ones I can't even imagine. Please know that we are here to help in anyway possible. My thoughts go out to you and your family.

Much Love- Matt Moyer

[Amish Ed]

John, I too did not have the pleasure of meeting Dave. But, I cried when I read of the decision you had to make. As a father, I can't imagine what you are going through. We are all here for you and thank you for keeping us updated.

[FISH11]

I was taken by the response, within this wonderful community, on the tragedy that took Dave. I can't remember the last time a thread had over 5,000 views in such a short time. I'm not sure if I talked to Dave at LJ before, but he is very familiar and most of us meet many fellow kayak fisherman. I usually fish alone or meet people I know once on the water. To me La Jolla has special memories since I lived there in the early 60's, went to and graduated from La Jolla High. When I was young I walked all over the coast there and fishing many areas, around LJ. Now I enjoy the view of all the places I lived or fished in LJ, but from the different perspective of being on the water looking back to shore and I can't think of a finer place. I often have thought that's were I want my ashes spread. 2 1/2 years ago my Dad passed away and he also loved LJ. So when it was time I took his ashes and spread them from my kayak in the beautiful water off La Jolla. He's with me every trip I fish La Jolla as so many others that have chosen the same area to have their ashes scattered.

[fishwrap]

Dave's dad Sorry to hear of Dave's tragic accident. My prayers go out to you and your family. Hope you and your family stay strong.

[On-The-Prowl]

Very sad. My condolences to you and your family.

[Davesdad]

I need to tell ALL OF YOU how much these replies have helped my family out.Everybody in my family is visiting this site to read these replies and they've all said it helps so much in taking away some pain.I never expected this and boy does it help.We're hoping some of you are fishing Saturday morning.Some of us (family) are coming down to the shores to say thanks and wish you a great day on the water.:jig:

[newportdogs]

Dave's Dad and Family, I am so, so sorry for your loss. RIP David

[fishfoo]

R.I.P. DAVE MAY THE FISHING GODS SMILE UPON YOU

[Sheephead]

Apologies for your loss. Unfortunately Dave and I haven't met but it would've been cool to have another regular on my fishing buddy list. He sounds like a genuine guy. I'm sorry If I wasn't able to help Dave as much as I could have that day, the location of his incident prevented me from thinking anything serious was going on and I was stunned when I came in contact with him and the rescuers. The lifeguards had mentioned they were taking his kayak and gear to the Scripps yard... where ever that is but I wanted to let you know in case they weren't able to.

[Markn]

My mom was the recipient of a lung transplant. It prolonged her life for many more years and gave our children the opportunity for them to know their grandmother and for her to see her grand children grow up into the outstanding people that they are today. Please know that Daves gift will do untold amounts of good to many families and affect their lives in a most positive manner. His passing is a tragedy that must be nearly unbearable but please take some solace in the selfless contribution your son has made to saving and improving other peoples lives with his donation.

Thanks everybody for the kind words and your thoughts.This morning Dave was declared brain dead and is still on life support awaiting the recipients for organ donation.This is a blow to me and it's so tough i don't know how to handle it other than to reach out to those that helped and are concerned.They think he may have had a heart condition that causes a weird heartbeat and lack of blood flow which can cause fainting.We're just not sure yet.Thank you guys for the support,i need it.


Mark

[Cbad Mike]

News of the event traveled quickly through the community and I never gave up hope that all would end well and we would remember this as only a close call.
I am so sad and sorry for his family's and friend's loss.

[radastaff]

Yesterday it was butterflys in the pit of my stomach.

All of our souls weigh heavier on this day.

So sad, so sad.


I did not know Dave,
but it does not matter, we are one
this community.



P

[Aznronin]

My deepest condolences. This whole situation is very sad. I will pray for his family.

[Chuck D]

I am so sorry for your loss and hoe that you can find peace in the face that he was doing what he loved when it all happened, my thoughts are with Dave's family.

[yaksailor]

This is very tragic to hear about Dave and something no parent should have to experience. Those that fish from a kayak have a special bond with each other and the sea. My thoughts and prayers are with Dave's family and our kayaking community.

[FoodGeekFish]

In life, one may know a man by his words and deeds, his handshake and his smile. In passing, these measures disappear, and are not for consideration of those who did not know him in his days.

As such, we may only know him in the love and grief of friends and family, the good works he leaves behind, and the nature and spirit of those who mourn his passing. By these measures, never having had the privilege of meeting him, it is clear that Dave was an exceptional individual.

We grieve, not only for the loss and suffering of those that knew him, but also for the community, any time one of its members falls away. We are weakened by his absence and strengthened in our unity of grief, a final gift from a kind soul.

John, may your family's suffering be no more than is necessary to honor Dave, and may his memories and gifts remain as blessings in your lives.

[alanw]

I hope our community's heartfelt outpouring of condolences bring you some comfort. Sending prayers of peace to you and your family.

[MITCHELL]

Thanks for giving us a report.

[Semper Fi-shing]

Well said, FoodGeekFish.

I have been witness to many simple acts of kindness and consideration that has made a huge impact on me since I have fished La Jolla and elsewhere such as:

-That time when i was done offloading my kayak and proceeded to get my truck hopelessly stuck in the sand on the way to parking it. A few kayakkers who were all ready to launch saw me spinning my wheels and came by to help me push my vehicle out of the sand while another provided tow straps to successfully tow me out. I realized that the sun was already coming out and they came over and started helping out before I got a chance to ask. Half an hour later, I was on the water fishing.

-Or that day when I broke off my one and only sabiki off kelp and didnt have any other means to catch bait. One yakker offered up some bait while another offered his one and only spare sabiki and refused to take money for it. I, of course, proceeded to lose the sabiki on the next patch of kelp. I found out later that week that that same person caught a yellowtail on that very day. (Good karma for a good deed )

-Or last Saturday when my helper on the water (and my now new friend) told me about how, the week prior, he had met Dave on the water after my friend also broke off his last sabiki. He told me how Dave also offered him a sabiki. On top off that, every time Dave caught bait, he offered my friend half of his catch.

Sometimes, it's the simplest acts that make the biggest impact.

[Holy Mackerel]

Deepest sympathies to Dave's family and friends, I cannot imagine the pain you are experiencing... to the kayak fisherman who responded to this tragedy, much respect.

[Hydronaut]

Heard about the accident while at the Heroes On the Water event last Saturday. I prayed that there was a positive outcome. Deepest sympathy to Dave's family. Eternal Tight Lines Dave.

Hydronaught

[lamb]

Very sad.
Condolences to family

[Aquaholix]

From all of us here at AQUAHOLIX, we are deeply saddened that this tragic incident ever occured. We all have been & will continue to pray for you, your family & of course your tremendously beloved son to find peace during these most painful times...

Tragedy doesn't have an alarm clock. There's no way to ever really prepare for these type of things. All we can do is be prudent in our daily life practices of expressing our love to whomever that may be. Tomorrow is never promised.

I personally pray to God to bless all of you with peace, love, protection & guidance...

Lastly, to Dave, you do not know me personally, nor did I know you brother. One thing I do know, is the same love for the Sea & fishing was definitely a shared addiction between us, as well as many others both near & far. And through that similar, shared passion we are all connected. You've touched many with your passionate acts & gestures of love & kindness. And even though I could be considered as a stranger to you & your family, you (Dave) & your family will forever be in my heart, my mind & my prayers... See ya on the other side brother, leave some fish for the rest of us! 🙏

Again, as many have previously stated, we are here for Dave's family in any way/capacity we are able to be. Please let us know how we may be able to help. If any kind if memorial paddle out or anything similar is being planned I would love to be a part of that...

& to those who were the first responders out there in LJ that day, good on you fellas for lookin out for eachother out there, it could have been any of us. Much love to yall & I pray as well that you all find some peace through all this... May God bless all of you.

[echo42]

I am pretty much the new (but old looking) guy out at La Jolla and unfortunately I never met Dave. I plan on fishing tomorrow, hopefully I will get a chance to meet Davesdad and family. I would like to say that I will go out and catch something grand in Dave's honor, but the fact of the matter is, I'm just not that good...yet. So, I'll make it a nice day on the water and take the chance to reflect on Dave's well lived life.

[joe tuipala]

my family will bring flowers to the beach Saturday .

[summers in kuwait]

John,

I am so sorry for your loss. I wasn't too close to Dave, but knew of him. We would pass each other on the water occasionally and I would usually say good morning in the early am as I passed by his truck, parked near the launch.

My deepest condolences to you, his family and friends.
Much love to all.

Todd

[Davesdad]

I'm at a loss for words with all this support guys.Hope to see some of you in the morning.

[FISH11]

I'll be launching tomorrow around 6:20 to fish for a few hours, since the wind is going to pick up and be strong before 11am. The surf report is for 1' wave and should be very easy. I usually don't fish Saturdays because of the crowds, but tomorrow it will be to Honor David. Tight Lines David

[Steve Max]

My heart has softened and I am lost for words. My prayers to Dave and his Family.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MattRabasco]

I am sorry for your loss. I never met Dave but saw him out there often. May you find peace and acceptance during this difficult time.

[BFranke]

It’s incredible how bitter sweet someone’s passing can be. We will never know the whys of what happened, but to see how it brings people closer together is amazing. I didn’t know Dave but can tell he was a great person and this tragic event has changed my outlook on the way I go about my daily routines. We will never know when it’s our time to go, so try and enjoy every moment to the fullest. Rest In Peace Dave!!

[the dude]

very sorry for your loss.

[Davesdad]

Some of Dave's family got to meet some of you guys yesterday.Thanks for supporting us and talking fishing.Thanks for letting me brag a little about my kid and what he's caught recently at La Jolla.The person that put up a picture of Dave and a nice Yellow on the wood poles near the launch.So kind of you.I'm wondering if you guys caught anything ? Seeing all of you paddle out and gather outside was cool to see.:you_rock:

[FISH11]

It was good to be able meet you and your wife, John. I liked the fact that your family was able to experience some of the LJ kayak fishing community, that Dave was part off. I for one did not have much luck yesterday. All I talked to after coming back in around 1 pm said they didn't either. Bait was hard to catch, even guys in boats with bait did not seem to be having any better luck. It unfortunately has been that way for a while now at LJ. Some days it's more about being at the right place at the right time. I keep thinking things will change soon.

[Semper Fi-shing]

John,

Thank you and bless Dave, friends, family, yakkers and non-yakkers as well.

Out on the water, my line started to scream as I reached back and grabbed my pole to start to reel in but after 5 seconds, the fish spit the hook. I must not have let he fish swallow my bait......farmed!

My friend Ash on my tandem also hooked onto a nice fish that was taking drag sporadically until it realized it was hooked and went berserk when it got close to the yak. I could see that it was a huge barracuda as it turned its body to run. Ash tried to tighten the drag on his reel and that's when the tension on his line relaxed and......farmed! Fish gone!.

Minh didnt have much luck either. Ws were dipping into his bait bucket and he ran his solo skiff back and forth to resupply bait but by then it was getting late and water was getting choppy.

Saw a couple guys on the water with yellows taking pictures and a few on boats hooked up also.

We all had a blast, fish or no fish.


Our quest for our first yak yellow remains.

Our journey continues, in fishing, and in life

I encourage anyone that has fond fishing memories, past or present, fish or no fish, to share and post on this page.

[Semper Fi-shing]

Levi, myself, John, and family

[Semper Fi-shing]

My buddy Daniel trying to release a shark without getting bit

[Semper Fi-shing]

My personal best fish, a 27 lb halibut at Redondo, happened to be on a yak

[Davesdad]

Thanks for that picture Chen.You'll get em next time.

[FISH11]

Did not get lucky yesterday, just had what I thought was a sea lion but was probably a barracuda take my swim bait at the end of my sabiki for a good 3 second run but did not get hooked. So here are some pictures from the last few Yellows caught at La Jolla. The first picture is the sun coming up and shining through the clouds yesterday morning a short time after meeting Dave's family at the beach launch. The next one (siting on my lap) was released unharmed. I often release some and don't always take their picture. The one I'm holding and on the way back is sticking out of the fish bag made for a couple of my favorite pictures.

[Semper Fi-shing]

Wow. Yellowtail pictures give give goosebumps and inspiration.

[Mr. NiceGuy]

The person that put up a picture of Dave and a nice Yellow on the wood poles near the launch. So kind of you.


http://www.pbase.com/image/168161328.jpg

[Mr. NiceGuy]

It was a beautiful morning and a beautiful sunrise. It was very nice to meet Dave's family, and to enjoy being with kindred spirits. I hope that sharing the beginning of this new day together can help to bring some healing and closure.

[blitzburgh]

So sorry for you and and your family's loss Sir. Prayers for you all during this unimaginable time.

[2-Stix]

I am deeply sorry for your loss John.

[Daveschildhoodfriend]

Hello,my name is John.I'm Dave's father.Unfortunately he's most likely not going to survive this tragedy.Right now we're waiting on one last test to determine brain death.All tests have already indicated he's no longer with us but for peace of mind we asked for one more test.We're not exactly sure what happened yet but we do know he may have had a heart defect that caused him to pass out.This was discovered while he was in ICU on life support.Dave has been fishing since he was old enough to hold a fishing pole,about 2 years old.He's always been one lucky (and very skilled) fisherman.Always able to adapt and catch something no matter where we were.From Carp to Tuna he caught it and always enjoyed it.I'm a very proud Dad and also very sad at this time.I'm here to tell those that helped how much i appreciate their efforts to save his life ! i just don't know how to say thank you enough,you guys did your best.I would also like to help out the guy that lost his rod and reel if i could.I thought i'd post this tonight just to get you guys some answers.I'm very tired and upset because of these last couple of days.I'll check in tomorrow some time if i'm able to.I have a very difficult decision to make at the hospital but will try and get back here.Thanks,John


I’m not sure what I’m doing cause I to like John a second father to me in my younger years am new to this page so please bare with me. I have no idea what to say I’m so lost for words at this moment after reading everyone’s comments. Dave and I met in our early teenage years and from that very first day first fishing trip together we were inseparable I can recal that day like it was yesterday. We had alarms set for 3 am at my own fathers house so we could get up and sneak onto Carlton oaks golf course in santee and slay some mega large mouth well back then they were mega to us lol needless to say we caught some nice fish that morning and he introduced me to the sinko aka French fry worm and we fished till sunrise when we got busted by the golf course employees and asked to leave man those were the days Dave I’ll miss you brother and I’m so sorry I failed to stay in constant contact with you after I moved to Montana but I’m so glad I decided to stop by when I was down there for a family deal just to say hi I was so happy to see you and John (dad) still at the same ole house we use to get into so much trouble at.

John (dad) I hope your holding in there cause I’m not I’m losing my poop right now while typing this and just can’t hold back the tears anymore I’m gonna miss him so much and I want you to know that I think Dave was right beside me this last Saturday when I was bow hunting and I could almost hear him telling me to wait be patient that buck will come and as it drew closer I pulled back and I could here Dave say “ now it’s the perfect shot and it’s the biggest buck you’ll have ever shot” needless to say I got him and boy Dave was right it’s by far the biggest mule deer and measures out at 172 and 6/8 inches that technically if I wanted qualifies for pope and young record books. Sorry I’m probly talking a different language to most haha John I just want you to know I’m always here for you and the family you are my second family even though we haven’t spoken much in some time now but mom has my cell number now so please feel free to call or text I miss you guys so much you and Dave will always be in my prayers

[Daveschildhoodfriend]

This is a photo of Dave and I at Lindo lake park in lakeside catching some carp something we did quite often when we got bored haha Dave is on the right I am on the left not sure who took the pic but mom (Dave’s mom) found it in his room the other day and sent it to my phone I’m afraid it’s a rare photo to have cause we were to busy to pose for the camera there was fish to be caught and that was way more important to us