2013 Grunion Runs Return Before Midseason Lull

On certain spring nights following high tides, grunions ride the waves onto shore for a remarkable mating ritual, which happens only in Southern California and Baja California.

While on the beach, female grunion bury themselves halfway in the sand to lay eggs, while males wrap themselves protectively around the females to fertilize their eggs. Both catch a wave to return to sea, Scripps Institution of Oceanography explained.

The official 2013 fishing season started March 11 and continues late Wednesday through Sunday.

During the open fishing season people are free to grab a certain amount of the fish.

This weekend will be the last open "grunion runs" for two months. During April and May people may observe but are not permitted to catch or disturb the fish. Open season resumes June 8 and continues through August.

Source: California Department of Fish and Game

Birch Aquarium informed La Jolla Patch the best days and times to search local beaches for grunion this spring are as follows.

2013 Season

• Friday, March 29: 11 p.m. - 1 a.m.
• Friday, April 12: 10:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.
• Saturday, April 27: 10:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.
• Saturday, May 11: 10:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.
• Sunday, May 26: 11 p.m. - 1 a.m. 

If you are not sure what to look for, Birch Aquarium can help. The aquarium hosts guided grunion runs where participants head to the beach on a guided tour to hunt for the silvery fish.

The program is $14 per person, ages 6+. Ages 6-13 must attend with a paid adult. Reservations must be received in advance by registering online or by calling 858-534-7336.