2011’s market squid run was one of the most incredible phenomena I have ever experienced while diving.
Every year, tens of thousands of these foot-long squid congregate to mate, lay eggs, and die. The water was thick with San Diego squid–visibility was limited not by particulate in the water column, but by the density of squid swimming in every direction. I experienced vertigo many times, and if I felt a sudden tug at my camera, it was because a squid had attached itself to my camera’s strobe arms. When I turned on my canister light, thousands of squid swarmed and followed me. The experience was truly intense.
It was actually somewhat difficult to isolate just one squid in the frame:
Some eggs:
Finally, a short movie:
Comments
3 responses to “San Diego, California: The Running of the Squid”
These are stunning images, Ashley!
What an experience this must have been.
Sending you wishes for a wonderful week ahead!
How long do we have to dive with the squid??
Hey Bill. There are significantly fewer squid this year than last year, but they can still be found. I wouldn’t wait too long, though–I’d give them maybe another few weeks.