San Diego & SoCal Fishing Forums

I got to Otay early and was ready to fish as soon as it opened. As I pushed my float tube down the launch ramp, and into the water my feet slipped on the greasy algae, and I fell over backwards landing on my back and elbow. A guy named Joe saw me fall and kindly came over to help me up.

My shoulder and neck were protesting, but I figured I was already there, so I might as well fish. I fished for about 3 hours and managed 7 before my body couldn't take anymore. Nothing over 2 lbs. Would have been more fun, but even reeling in clones actually hurt.

I Spent all morning getting X-rays and CT scans because this morning I couldn't raise my arm or turn my head. Hopefully I didn't mess anything up too bad. Waiting for the doctor as I type this.

Anyways, watch that slippery algae out there, it'll reach out and get you when you least expect it.

So sorry to hear about your fall Dan. OUCH!
And you still stuck it out to fish...that is true dedication. And If reeling in clones hurt....dang you were in pain. I hope you are feeling
better soon and wish you a speedy recovery buddy.

Damn! Good thing you didn’t slam your head in the ground. Way to tough it out

So sorry to hear Dan yeah the ramps at bay r really bad j st ramp on low tide I literary can’t get out water cause so slippery gotta stay low or crawl it sucks bummer buddy I hope everything is ok and u r able to get out there soon

Yes, glad it was not your head that you hit. Who said fishing is not a dangerous sport.
Heal up soon. The SD Lake budget is already in trouble and without you fishing it will crash in weeks=D

So sorry to hear of your fall. I hope the VA covers all your exams. Heal quickly and get back out there.

That's a bummer! I hope you are feeling better. The fish will miss you.

Oh man! Best wishes on a speedy recovery. I hate the green goop. At least you got a few.

I know the Launch Ramps are so handy. Slide right in and you are fishing, plus you can usually nail a Bass there before you get out. Ive been there, laying in 6 inches of water completely soaked, bruised and bleeding, after a slippery spot. It happens so quick. Leave the Ramps for the Boats, I just flat don't launch my Tube from them anymore unless absolutely required. Even then I sit and backslide in. I try and find a nice sandy beach or gravelly spot. The day after going down is the worst, you will heal, more slowly now than we used too. I know you are already thinking about getting back on the water. Get well soon, and get back on the great Fall Bite!

Bendo wrote: Tue Oct 14, 2025 2:05 pm I know the Launch Ramps are so handy. Slide right in and you are fishing, plus you can usually nail a Bass there before you get out. Ive been there, laying in 6 inches of water completely soaked, bruised and bleeding, after a slippery spot. It happens so quick. Leave the Ramps for the Boats, I just flat don't launch my Tube from them anymore unless absolutely required. Even then I sit and backslide in. I try and find a nice sandy beach or gravelly spot. The day after going down is the worst, you will heal, more slowly now than we used too. I know you are already thinking about getting back on the water. Get well soon, and get back on the great Fall Bite!

If you had my tube and setup you would absolutely use the ramp. I fish an average of 4 days per week and this is the first time this has happened. I will definitely be more careful in the future.

All is well folks, just some strained ligaments, and bruised cartilage. Getting some range of motion back in my neck, but it's still a bit painful to raise, and bend my arm. Pretty sure I'll be back at it this week.

Thanks for the well wishes.

The wise old Doc on Hee Haw used to say "Don't DO that!" I fell a couple weeks ago, myself! Don't recommend it!