On March 11, at about 8 a.m., the first tsunami surges from the 9.0-magnitude Japanese earthquake hit the West Coast. The tidal surges pounded the coast and hit the Santa Cruz Harbor and Port of Crescent City without restraint. The damage at the Santa Cruz small-craft harbor is estimated at more than $22 million.
Government officials swarmed the harbor, and all efforts are rolling forward to get the harbor cleared of debris to be open for commerce and pleasure use. With a proposed salmon season starting April 2, they have their work cut out for them.
From Bayside Marine in the Santa Cruz Harbor, Biggie reported, “The harbor should be open by Sunday the 20; the crane is gone, and the launch ramp should be open well before the salmon season begins.”
Todd Fraser, owner of Bayside Marine, was worried about his boat after the surge and was unable to save or view it. At this time, Todd’s boat, “Easy Money,” is reported to be in good condition with a small amount of damage.
Capt. Jimmy Rubin reported, “It looks like my boat is okay. I feel blessed to have moved it to the end of ‘S’ dock the day before.”
Jimmy still needs to have an underwater diver survey the bottom, as soon as the water clears enough. He said he is looking forward to a salmon season and is booking trips at this time.
The Sand Crab Classic Perch Tournament was set for March 12, the day after the tidal surges started the destruction. With all the plans made, the event was still held, with great care for beach fishing safety. The tournament went off without a hitch. It drew 300 people, including contestants and volunteers.
The Sand Crab Classic raised more than $3,000 to be donated to the Monterey Salmon and Trout Project.
The winner was Clinton Moran, with a 2 pound, 12 ounce Pile perch. The largest single donation was a Mercury Motor donated by Jim Moore of Moore and Sons Mercury Marine in Santa Cruz. The event was fantastic, thanks to all the contestants, sponsors and volunteers.
The focus now will be on salmon fishing. It is important to test-run boats before heading out and double check all safety equipment.
Mike Baxter has fished in the Monterey Bay Area since he was a boy and has been a licensed charter boat captain for more than 15 years. Contact him at [email protected]. He also hosts a fishing show April through September.
