Grunion Run 2023 schedule

The Grunion Run 2023 schedule for California has been released. California grunions (Leuresthes tenuis) are small bait fish that breed by swimming onto sandy beaches at certain moon and tide cycles up and down Southern California, and going on a grunion run is a great way of seeing this unique species. But first, you need to know when they run and how to find them on a run.

Where have grunion runs been happening so far in California in 2023?

Knowing the best beaches to find grunion runs on in California is obviously key to predicting where the next run will occur.

So far this year, confirmed Grunion runs have occurred in Southern California on the following beaches:

Seal Beach (LA County)
Cherry Beach (Long Beach, LA County)
Cabrillo Beach (LA County)
San Pedro area (LA County)
Coronado Ferry Landing Beach (San Diego)
Campo Archelon (Baha, MX)

When do grunion runs happen in California in 2023?

Grunion runs occur between March and August up and down Southern California when a combination of moon, tide and water temperature trigger the California grunion to swim right up to the beach to breed over a series of late-night high tides lasting three to four evenings.

What are the best tips for finding grunions on grunion runs?

Find a sandy beach with access to open ocean - avoid harbors and lagoons
Avoid using head torches or lamps - grunions spook easily
The third and fourth night of the run are usually the most reliable times to spot grunion
You'll often see birds circling or landing where the grunion are running, or just before
If you can't find them, keep lights off and walk the beach as the run will often be concentrated in one area
The months of April, May and June are now no-take months
The best (and most legal) way of catching grunion is with your hands
Make sure you read the California Fish & Wildlife's list of regulations for grunion hunters
Read this in-depth article written by a professional guide: How To Catch Large Predatory Fish (Sharks, Rays etc) on a Grunion Run
Listen to Episode 54 of the Western Outdoor News podcast on Grunions Runs and finding Grunions

Tips for fishing on grunion runs: baits, tides, species and guiding

Grunion runs often attract sharks, rays, halibut, croaker and surf perch
Grunion are often too small to use as bait, so try half a fresh mackerel or croaker instead
The period just after or before the run with a big outgoing tide often produces the best action
For information on guiding services for grunion run fishing, click here