A Farewell to Diving
CDN:
For more than 50 wonderful years I thought diving was forever—it can be such a low impact sport. But one day last December, at age 82, after three beautiful dives in the kelp forests and on the reefs of Catalina Island, I put my equipment away with great care—and for the last time.

Despite the most disciplined lifestyle, aging takes its toll on strength, endurance, coordination, balance, flexibility and ability to withstand cold. Responsible divers need to know when not to dive, whether on an occasion or when competencies decline.

Underwater experiences all over the Pacific have provided exciting adventures, exploration, superb nature watching—and great memories.

As a long time subscriber to California Diving News, my own diving has been greatly enhanced by your coverage of destinations, equipment, safety, vendors and the local dive boat fleet—as well as other relevant information.

Diving has enriched my life.
Chuck Vernon
La Mirada, CA
P.S. My subscription renewal is enclosed.

Diving SLO County
The diving in the San Luis Obispo area is fantastic; if you know where to go.

Shell Beach is one of the spots. Thousand Steps is the name of the spot, and the easiest access is at the end of Morro Street. It is easiest way to access all the diving in the immediate area, be it from shore or kayak.

One such dive spot, which has been nick-named Battleship Rock is located about 300 yards offshore and just to the right (or north) and is full of marine life. From rock cod to ling cod, perch and sheephead; fish abound around the natural pinnacle formations that rise up from the sea bed. And the visibility on an average day is between 10 and 20 feet but can get closer to 40 feet on a good day. Some people swim the distance, but personally I use a diving kayak to get to where I need to go.

Another dive spot is located 100 yards in the opposite direction off the same beach and is an amazing dive. Out there you find an island surrounded by a kelp forest full of life, and going through the middle of said island is a cave, which at one time was full of abalone, is now a home to various colorful species of nudibranch and jeweled anemone. If the cave is inaccessible because of surf, the kelp forest that surrounds the small island is full of life and is an excellent source for lobster during the season.

Bill Bookout
Pismo Beach Dive Shop
(805) 773-2089

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