CatchWindow fishing intelligence

Richmond, CA Daily Water Report — August 27, 2026

Boating takes the top spot today with a 7.4 out of 10, and that’s your best bet for getting on the water around Richmond. The south wind is holding at a modest 6 knots with gusts only reaching 11, and the wave height sits at a consistent half-meter or less throughout the daylight hours. That combination means a calm, manageable bay for powerboats and larger craft, especially through the middle of the day when the breeze stays lightest. The calmest wave period actually falls near midnight at 0.42 meters, but the morning hours before the wind picks up will feel similar. For anglers, the 6.5 score reflects a solid but not exceptional day. The waxing gibbous moon, 98 percent illuminated, creates a strong midday solunar window from 11:33 to 1:33, and the minor period around dawn from 6:03 to 7:03 gives another opportunity. The full cloud cover and stable pressure at 1015 hPa help maintain consistent conditions, though the lack of tide data means you’ll want to rely on local knowledge for timing. Wildlife watchers should note the 7.1 score—the low early-morning wind and calm sea state improve your chances of spotting surface activity, even if the 15-kilometer visibility and overcast sky keep things muted. Surfing remains a so-so 5.3, and that won’t surprise anyone who’s been watching the small, slow swell at 0.4 meters from 284 degrees with a 4.75-second period. It’s rideable for a longboard on a mellow day, but don’t expect any punch. Sailing and kayaking both land in the mid-6 range, workable but not special, with the south wind offering a steady reach for experienced paddlers who don’t mind the breeze building into the afternoon. Compared to the previous few days, today’s boating score dips a notch from the 8.1 you saw on the 24th, but it’s still a clear improvement over yesterday’s 6.6, thanks to lighter winds and smaller waves. The diving score is unavailable today, a notable drop from the consistent 8.5-plus readings earlier in the week—likely a reflection of the 100 percent cloud cover and marginal visibility. Looking ahead, Thursday keeps similar wave heights and a slight uptick in wind, while Friday through Sunday hold steady with gentle seas and no rain in sight. By next Tuesday, the swell drops to nearly flat at 0.2 meters, so if you want any real wave action, today and tomorrow are it. For the best moment under the sun, aim for the late morning—calm enough for a smooth run, bright enough to keep the gray at bay.