FISHING : Anglers Encounter Rough Seas, Mixed Results

Because of choppy seas and high winds in most areas, it was a mixed bag for South Bay fishermen last week.

Half-day sportfishing boats found tough conditions on morning trips, but by afternoon, the wind and ocean frequently had become more calm and fishermen were able to catch calico bass and perch.

According to Paul Boesche of Redondo Sportfishing, half-day boats found a plentiful supply of bonito near Rocky Point on Monday and the fish averaged more than three pounds.

Boesche, who said Monday’s conditions were perfect, said he believes there could be an early spring run of bonito because the water is starting to warm.

The waters off San Clemente were a hot spot for sheephead on Monday. The Shogun from L.A. Harbor Sportfishing returned with 188 sheephead--the largest one-day count this season.

The Pacifica, on a two-day rock cod trip to the outer islands, returned Monday with 750 rock cod and 11 lingcod.

Results of the King Marlin Club’s third annual Cabo Shootout have been released.

Sixteen anglers participated in the tournament with four members fishing on each team. Each fish that was caught was subsequently released and anglers received points that went toward awards for their club.

Ed Watt was the first-place winner, having caught and released two marlin.

Second place went to Bob Stephans, who released two fish--a yellowfin tuna and a dorado. Third place went to Neal Alderman, who released a marlin. Fourth place went to Bob David, who also released a marlin.

Fred Hall’s annual Western Fishing Tackle Show is under way at the Long Beach Convention Center and continues through Sunday.

More than 600 displays of the latest fishing gear, for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, are on display.

South Bay Sportfishing landings will have booths, with boat captains available to answer questions and give discount coupons for trips this year.

One of the many highlights of each show has been the trout casting ponds that feature daily casting contests. There are also numerous seminars.

San Pedro Sportfishing captain Russ Izor will be among a dozen professional anglers scheduled to give seminars each day of the show.

The show will run from 3 to 10:30 p.m. weekdays. On Saturday and Sunday, the doors open at 10 a.m.

South Bay Catches: Jim Johnson of Long Beach, aboard the Hungry Cruiser off Catalina Island, caught the whopper of the week--a 35-pound white seabass. Steve Pieati of Torrance, aboard the Redondo Special at Rocky Point, caught a 21-pound halibut.

Henry Mencias of West Los Angeles, aboard the Blackjack at Cherry Bank, caught a 20-pound cow cod.

Phil Brooks of Wilmington, aboard the Freedom at the Osborne Bank, caught an 18-pound lingcod.