Albacore Discovered Near Morro Bay

Two commercial fishing boats seeking swordfish instead collected half a ton of albacore 45-60 miles out of Morro Bay Tuesday.

Albacore are the most prized of tuna, but they are seldom found close to shore and have been a rare catch in Southern California in recent years. These were the first sighted around Morro Bay since August, said Rita Gartell of Virg’s Landing.

Virg’s plans to run an exploratory charter boat to the area, departing at 11 p.m. Friday and returning late Saturday. Fare: $69. Details: (805) 772-2216.