Seal Beach Platform Esther advice/tips needed

[Mongo Johnson]

It sits out there and intrigues me . . .

I'm considering trying a paddle to the Seal Beach oil platform. I did a search and found one old post and some old press clips.

Dumb idea? The paddle looks a little open oceanish when compared to the kelp bedding I'm used to. The "Beg Water's Edge" seems a little wider out there . . .

So, any advice for this noob' is welcome.

Am not sure on distance. I've read 1.5 and 3 mi.

On a breezy day it looks like it might be a real trek . . . Any current or conditions to consider beyond the normal south swell?

Do you approach and head back to Seal Beach angled north to compensate for current or is it negligible?

Looks like boaters might be worth watchin' out for. (As always.)

Any fishy out there?

'Sure hate to ask noob questions, but will appreciate any insight.

[landwhale]

First you have to stay away from the platform at least 300 ft so you cannot fish the pilings or structure near Esther. The current can run either uphill or downhill. Boaters ALWAYS look out for them. As for fish sandbass and halibut can be found from the beach out to the drop off to 45 ft.

[Matar]

I fished the platforms years ago and i always got sucked in and broke off, I had better luck drifting the bottom by the platforms on the shaddy side. Depenting on current the oil islands can produce and are a lot closer.

[FishRaiden]

Ive nvr fished the platform, but my group always fished the LB Wall thats next to it. Nvr a day youll get skunked.