Grunion spawning on a Southern California beach (Photo – CDFW)
Southern California beachgoers and fishing enthusiasts are in for a rare and fascinating spectacle this July: the annual grunion run. This unique event, where small, silvery fish come ashore to lay their eggs in the wet sand, will take place on select nights throughout the region.
By News Desk
Grunion are an exceptional species found only along the coast of Southern California and northern Baja California. What sets them apart from other fish is their remarkable behavior of coming completely out of the water to spawn on land. These runs are not random, however. The fish show up with such consistency that the timing of their beach excursions can be predicted up to a year in advance.
During the grunion runs, the fish prefer to spawn in darker, quieter areas of the beach, typically at the outer edges of shorelines, meaning the central parts of the beach are less likely to see action. These runs can be observed at numerous beaches across Southern California, with each location having its own specific timing.
2025 Grunion Run Schedule for Cabrillo Beach, Los Angeles Harbor
This year’s grunion runs will begin on July 10 and continue through the end of the month. The most intense spawning activity typically occurs on the second and third nights of a four-night run, making these the best times for viewing.
The expected times for Cabrillo Beach near the Los Angeles Harbor are as follows:
- Thursday, July 10: 9:25 pm to 11:25 pm
- Friday, July 11: 10:05 pm to 12:05 am
- Saturday, July 12: 10:45 pm to 12:45 am
- Sunday, July 13: 11:25 pm to 1:25 am
- Thursday, July 24: 9:35 pm to 11:35 pm
- Friday, July 25: 10:15 pm to 12:15 am
- Saturday, July 26: 10:55 pm to 00:55 am
- Sunday, July 27: 11:35 pm to 1:35 am
Important Reminders
The grunion runs are a protected event, so it’s crucial to follow the guidelines in place. If you’re planning to participate in the runs by catching grunion, be sure to have a valid California fishing license if you’re 16 or older. Only hand-catching is allowed; fishing tools and traps are strictly prohibited, as are digging holes to trap the fish. The daily limit is 30 grunion per person.
Before you head out, it’s also recommended to check with local authorities for any potential beach closures or restrictions. Grunion are sensitive to their environment, and many beaches are protected to preserve their natural spawning grounds.
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