Navigating El Niño
Posted on August 24, 2026 by Local Fish
We’re in an El Niño System. What could that mean for San Diego’s Fishing Community?
If you’ve lived in San Diego long enough, you’ve probably made it through an “El Niño” or two. While an El Niño system impacts the entire globe, it is measured by surface temperatures of the Pacific and ocean atmospheric conditions, and can definitely have larger impacts for the southwestern region of the United States and our waters; notably San Diego!
If you’ve been swimming in the ocean all winter (and summer) enjoying the unusually warm water like us, then you’ve been experiencing firsthand the first signs of this El Niño. While we’ve all enjoyed the warm water for ocean swimming, we have to also consider the impacts this system has on sea life.
What is El Niño?
We start to track the system miles away from our shores in the tropical Pacific closer to the equator. Normally winds push warm water systems in a distinct direction across the Pacific. During El Niño those winds are not as strong and the warm water shifts eastward. That shift can alter ocean currents, temperatures, weather patterns and thus marine ecosystems.
We can only guestimate based on water temperatures and flow, how “severe” the subsequent storm systems may be. However, based on the current data, experts are predicting that this could be one of the worst El Niños in recorded history.
But it’s not just El Niño…
In addition to the warm water caused by El Niño, there’s also a large marine heatwave that’s been warming the West Coast. Temperatures are warmer than usual.
So between the heatwave and the El Niño, we are seeing warm water like never before.
So what does it mean for FISH?
When water warms up, fish move! Fish follow habitat. Water temperature impacts where a species can thrive and where they can feed, so when water temperatures move, fish move with it. Warm water can bring new species earlier than usual or farther north than they might typically travel. It can also send other species deeper in search of cooler temps.
For fishermen, this can mean some species are easier to find and some might need more creativity to find. For consumers it could mean more fish or different fish at different times.
San Diego has Seen El Niño Before…
While this system is unusually strong and paired with a separate heatwave, El Niño isn’t new to Southern California. Past similar systems have produced unusual fishing conditions with warm-water species moving into uncommon areas.
That said, no two systems are alike and fishermen, who spend their days on the water, are the first to see what comes with this change. Most fishermen are spending more time on the water than marine scientists and so they are the eyes and ears of this system.
As Consumers it’s important to FOLLOW THE FISH
Don’t assume because you saw something last year or last week, that it will still be available this week. Many of these fish are highly migratory and what’s here this week might be gone the next. It’s always important to ask your fishmonger what’s fresh and what’s local. Or better yet, buy directly from fishermen from the market!
Looking Ahead…
While nobody has a crystal ball, we are expecting to see major storms and tons and tons of rain this winter season. Harsh conditions will undoubtedly impact fishing. Many small boat fishermen won’t be able to go out at all if we see serious storm systems as predicted.
It’s a great time now to support your local fisher and plan ahead. Buy fresh fish now and freeze it, so you can enjoy local catch through this year. Stay connected with small boat fishermen through social media or the Local Fish network to stay updated on what’s biting and what’s available. We are always here if you need anything. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
