La Jolla Launch

[Quilted Germ]

So people really launch at the shores...some paddle to the pier...then all the way past the cove? I was at Scripps Aquarium the other day and seeing that from a bird's view seems like a lot of paddling. Must take awhile.

[esdees]

Originally Posted by Quilted Germ

So people really launch at the shores...some paddle to the pier...then all the way past the cove? I was at Scripps Aquarium the other day and seeing that from a bird's view seems like a lot of paddling. Must take awhile.

There are plenty of people who launch elsewhere, like Marine St, but the surf at the shores is usually much mellower because it is so sheltered. I'm assuming you're new to kayaking (not just kayak fishing), so I would suggest you launch at the shores a few times without fishing gear to get a feel for your kayak in the surf. Then go from there and decide what you're comfortable with. Just remember, getting out through the surf is easier than coming back in. Leash or stow everything.

[madscientist]

Originally Posted by Quilted Germ

So people really launch at the shores...some paddle to the pier...then all the way past the cove? I was at Scripps Aquarium the other day and seeing that from a bird's view seems like a lot of paddling. Must take awhile.

From the launch to the pier is about 0.7 miles. About the same for the launch to the edge of the reserve. That's about a 10-15 minute paddle depending on conditions. Since a typical outing usually ends up covering 5-10 miles total, that little extra is not too much extra effort for the convenience of a drive up beach launch and mellow surf. From where I come from, the additional time to drive to LJ and the additional time it would take to carry everything to the water and setup outweighs the time it takes to paddle from the cove. Of course, if you are going to the pier there is no closer launch spot other than dragging the yak down the steps and launching through the big surf at the north end of LJ shores.

[blackcloud9]

I second the Casa launch idea, I too have been kicking that around in my
head for months as they finalize the discussion. I have launched a few
times from Casa Beach stairs area. By law, you are not allowed to launch
a "floating device" between this spot, and LJ Shores. Your mileage may
vary depending on time of day.






I have been spending summer weekend days playing with my kids at
Shores, and often am amazed at the size of the windswell at the Shores
"sheltered" launch - when Big Rock channel (Palomar St.) is serving up
ankle slappers on the sets.

Shorter swell periods, aka windswells fill into the shores better than the LJ
reefs areas.

So, I think you are correct sir, however finding live bait consistently can
be an issue over here.














Launching at Big Rock Saturday.

[dsafety]

What is the parking and beach access situation at Big Rock? If I remember right you have to scramble down some rocks to get to the beach. It has been a while since I have been there.

Bob