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smooth ride home in the afternoon, as you are running with the swell towards the harbor. Some boats also make the run to San Clemente Island, which is one of the most prolific fishing destinations in Southern California, but is almost 60 miles offshore. And as the furthest south of the Orange County launch ramps, there is an increased access to the offshore banks which harbor migratory pelagic species such as yellowtail, yellowfin tuna, dorado and marlin. In some years even the albacore can be found in these areas. Closer to shore, there are popular sites just down the coast, including the water outlets from the San Onofre Nuclear power plant, and the kelp beds and boiler rocks off Laguna Beach and Corona Del Mar to the north.
Newport Dunes
Newport Harbor
This is one of the prettiest launch areas in Southern California, and is the only place to launch on Newport Bay. As a result, the fee is also the highest at $15.00. The two ramps at this facility are well maintained, and mooring along the ramps provides easy access once you are launched. The parking for this ramp is often full and access is difficult during popular summer days and holidays. The line for the available wash-down can be long. On the other hand, this ramp can be a good choice when including family in your plans, as they have a wonderful swimming beach, and there are many attractions (including a major shopping mall) and restaurants close by. The ramp is located in the back portion of Newport Bay, and because of a 5 mph speed limit inside the Bay, 20 to 30 minutes are required to access the open water. The fishing access is similar to Huntington Harbor, with the Huntington Flats and Catalina being popular destination. There is also good calico bass fishing in the kelp beds and rocks just outside the surfline between Newport Bay and Dana Point, but because of the speed limits inside the Bay, it can be faster to launch at Dana Point, and run north. There is a seasonal bait receiver just before the harbor exit. There are free launch beaches scattered around the harbor that are popular with kayak and kick-boat fishermen fishing in the bay. However, there is no easy launch point for kayaks that give access to waters outside the Bay. continued on page54
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