Abalone

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About Abalone

FEATURING just of aka Justin from Martinez, CA.

I first started freediving at YMCA Camp Fox on Catalina as a kid. It's been on and off--I've always loved being in the water. While I lived in Santa Cruz, there was a summer with literally no surf. I was a regular body surfer, so it prompted me to go to Big 5 & get some cheap fins & mask & snorkel so I could do some sightseeing. I found that I didn't need a wetsuit--I like to get cold. That was about the extent of it until 2 years ago. Rod & Kym moved in across the street, and soon Rod asked me if I dove. I told him that I had, but didn't really these days. That changed. We went out that weekend and I was hooked. We've been diving partners ever since.

My first spot we refer to as Red Barn--I think the barn is near fallen down now, though. Park at the Eucs and start walking. I like to be nice & toasty when I hit the water. I love the terrain out there.

I like to dive at about 20 feet, but most enjoy watching the changes throughout the depths. One of my favorite times was when there was ~2 feet of visibility, and we were at Fort Ross as conditions were kinda ugly. I pulled the abalone with the barnacle. It was a challenge to see anything at all, and it was intriguing that this snail had a nice handle. I was very surprised when I surfaced. And the actual ab was a nice meaty 9. Bonus!

As for the picture, That was taken during my last time out last season. I've got a housing for my Canon Powershot, and it's one of the best things I've bought, photographically speaking. We went to Timber Cove--sure, you have to pay, but the folks are nice in that "Twin Peaks" kind of way, and it's nice to drive right down to the beach. We were the first in the water as the sun was making it over the hill--and had no company until we returned to shore with our booty. Conditions were perfect--clear, glassy water and sunny skies. We were home by 2. Nap time.

As for this year, I have a silly idea--being a lover of cold water, I want to attempt the hunt au naturale--sans wetsuit. I dislike the loss of flexibility due to the wetsuit. It's worth a shot. Perhaps opening day would be appropriate for the attempt.

My favorite place to camp is Ocean Cove:


One of my favorite things about ab diving is the friend I have made in Rod, and the excitement and curiosity of my kids about it.


[nugun's pic]
what is not to love about this shot? out there in calm waters, surrounded by kelp with your buddy just ahead. love the angle and smooth feel of this picture.