EAST CAPE DIVING CONDITIONS IN THE WINTER SEASON MODE

Jan. 8, 2006, Mark Rayor, Vista Sea Sport, Buena Vista, East Cape diving, Baja Sur, Mexico:

Happy divers! Although, it is not prime time at East Cape. East Cape diving water is 68 degrees at depth and visibility is 30 to 40 feet.

For the Sea of Cortez at the East Cape that is not the best, but divers coming from colder environments are smiling. If you're willing to pull on the neoprene and brave the chill there is loads to see.

Today a huge school of cownose bat rays cruised by us in formation. What a sight! They have been hanging out at Punta Pescadero and we have been seeing them on almost every tour. Electric and bullseye rays have also moved in and are littering the sand adjacent to the reefs. Colorful nudibranchs have also started to appear.

There are no Spanish dancers yet, but they are always soon to follow when winter conditions set in. A couple of days ago we sighted a few large yellowtail chasing bait fish. Awesome!

Soon, huge schools of amberjack should show, a sure sign that we are in the full swing of winter. Although cool conditions are not my favorite time of year, the diverse sea life at East Cape keeps my interest until the water starts to warm.