Spearfishing Abu Al-Abas: San Diego’s Hidden Seamount for Large Pelagics
Abu Al-Abas sits roughly 50 miles southwest of San Diego, a submerged mountain that rises dramatically from the deep ocean floor. Unlike the inshore reefs and kelp forests most local spearos know, this seamount is a pelagic hunter’s proving ground—a place where wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and dogtooth trevally cruise the blue water in serious numbers.
The seamount itself creates a natural funnel for baitfish and larger predators. Structure in deep water means current and upwelling, which concentrates food chains and attracts the fish you came for. If you’ve been hitting Coronado Islands or La Jolla Cove, Abu Al-Abas will reset your expectations.
When to Dive Abu Al-Abas
Summer through early fall (July–September) is prime season. Water temperatures climb to the mid-70s, visibility extends well beyond 80 feet, and pelagic activity peaks. Wahoo are most consistent June through October, while yellowfin show up strong in August and September when the water warms and offshore conditions stabilize.
Winter brings rougher seas and cooler water (low 60s), which pushes some species deeper but can still produce. Spring (April–May) is transitional—decent visibility, moderate temps, and fewer divers mean less pressure on the fish.
Check the Element app before any trip. Abu Al-Abas is exposed; wind, swell, and current conditions determine whether you’re going or not. A 4–6 foot swell is manageable. Anything larger makes the boat ride punishing and the dive sketchy.
Getting There and Logistics
You won’t reach Abu Al-Abas on a kayak or private small boat. Most San Diego spearos book with established dive charter operators who know the location, the conditions, and the logistics of working 50 miles offshore. The run takes 2.5–3.5 hours depending on sea state. Leave early—most boats depart around 5 or 6 AM.
Expect to pay premium prices for this distance, but the fish justify it. A full day charter to Abu Al-Abas typically runs $300–$500 per person. Split the cost with other spearos if you’re not committed to a private boat.
Weather windows close fast in San Diego. Scout conditions 3–5 days out and book your charter the moment the forecast looks solid. Summer swells from Southern Hemisphere storms can ruin weeks of potential diving.
Gear and Technique
Abu Al-Abas demands a serious setup. Bring a gun rated for large fish—a 140 cm+ speargun with a strong band configuration or a pneumatic gun if you’re experienced with recoil management. Wahoo and trevally hit hard and move faster than anything you’ve hunted inshore. Underpowered guns result in lost fish and frustration.
Use heavy mono or cable for your line. 200 lb+ mono is standard. Wahoo teeth are notorious for shearing through lighter line, so don’t cheap out. Stainless steel crimps and proper knots matter here.
Floatlines and buoys are non-negotiable. Tie a float to every fish you shoot. Pelagic fish run hard and deep; a buoy lets you track your catch and avoid losing it to current or exhaustion. Carry multiple floats and extra line.
Dive a drysuit or thick wetsuit—the water’s warm in summer, but you’re making multiple dives and staying in the water for hours. Thermal protection keeps you comfortable and extends your bottom time. A good buoyancy compensator and streamlined rig reduce drag and fatigue.
What to Expect Underwater
Abu Al-Abas doesn’t have the dense kelp or reef structure of Point Loma or the Coronado Islands. Instead, you’re hunting in blue water, watching the thermocline and structure on your dive computer or sounder. Fish are often suspended mid-water, not pinned to bottom terrain.
Wahoo hunt aggressively. You’ll see them cruising the blue, sometimes in pairs or small groups. They’re fast and competitive—if one shows interest, others follow. Shot placement matters. Aim for the head or just behind the gills.
Yellowfin tuna are faster and more skittish than wahoo. They school-hunt and spook easily. Stealth and patience are critical. Wait for them to commit before taking your shot.
Dogtooth trevally are brutal fighters. They’re smaller than the other pelagics but incredibly strong and explosive. A 40 lb dogtooth will outfight a 60 lb wahoo. Respect the power.
Safety Considerations
Diving 50 miles offshore demands respect. Bring a dive flag, stay with your buddy, and maintain awareness of your air supply and depth. Current at Abu Al-Abas can be strong; don’t fight it—use it to your advantage and plan your ascents accordingly.
Check your gear twice. Redundancy saves lives. Carry a backup mask, extra weights, and a signaling device. The boat crew is watching, but self-sufficiency is your best insurance.
Final Thoughts
Abu Al-Abas isn’t a casual day dive. It’s a destination that separates serious spearos from weekend hobbyists. If you’re ready for open-water hunting and large pelagics, the seamount rewards your commitment with fish that will test your skills and your nerve.
Use the Element app to track conditions, plan your window, and dial in the timing. When everything aligns—calm seas, warm water, and good visibility—Abu Al-Abas delivers some of the best spearfishing San Diego has to offer.