Tom’s Update: August 2026
PIER Heading to Morro Bay In the coming weeks the Malolo will be headed up to Morro Bay. With El Niño conditions bringing warmer-than-usual waters to Southern California, species like swordfish, bluefin tuna, and opah are pushing north into cooler, more productive waters. This is
Tom’s Update: July 2026
Sand Bass Tagging Project Underway PIER recently kicked off its Cali-Baja Sand Bass Tagging Project alongside the captain and crew of the Point Loma from Point Loma Sportfishing. The first day of fieldwork was a tremendous success, with the team deploying more than 375 tags on barred sand bass.
Tom’s Update: May 2026
The PIER team recently published research focused on testing artificial baits in tuna fishing operations. The study was funded by the NOAA Bycatch Reduction and Engineering Program and worked with a very talented fishermen, and good friend, on Hawaii’s Big Island (Kenton Geer on the
Tom’s Update: March 2026
PIER returns from the Sacramento Pacific Fisheries Management Council meeting with great news! PIER received approval to expand its Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) activities this season, allowing greater flexibility to test and refine responsible fishing gear. PIER will continue developing and testing innovative ways to
Tom’s Update: February 2026
PIER is celebrating a milestone! 2026 marks PIER’s 30th year in operation. What began as a vision has grown into a respectable research institution with over 30 years under its belt. We are deeply grateful for the support of our community and partners throughout this
Help Keep Our Ocean Communities Thriving, Please Think of PIER this Giving Tuesday
On this Giving Tuesday, we’re reminded of how blessed we are to be part of a community that is committed to finding real solutions to strengthen our fisheries and protect the livelihoods tied to them. Thank you to all who have supported us in the