Pacific Northwest Underwater Wonders
Explore the vibrant marine life of the PNW through the lens of a dry suit diver.
Wolf Eel
An amazing creature of the deep, often found in rocky crevices.
Despite their fearsome appearance, Wolf Eels are generally shy and curious. They are not true eels but a type of fish, known for their powerful jaws and a diet of crustaceans and sea urchins. Divers often encounter them peeking out from their dens.
Nudibranch and Dorids
Colorful sea slugs, often called “sea butterflies” for their beauty.
These vibrant sea slugs come in an incredible array of colors and shapes. They are carnivorous, feeding on hydroids, sponges, and other small invertebrates. Each species has unique patterns and external gills (cerata) that make them a favorite subject for underwater photographers.
Red Octopus
A smaller, vibrant octopus, masters of camouflage and intelligence.
The Red Octopus is a common sight in the shallower waters of the PNW, often found hiding in rocky crevices or under ledges. Known for their brilliant red coloration, they can quickly change their hue and texture to blend into their surroundings. They are highly intelligent and curious, making every encounter a unique experience.
Great Pacific Octopus
The largest octopus species, known for its intelligence and camouflage.
These incredible cephalopods are masters of disguise, able to change their color and texture to blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Highly intelligent, they are known to solve puzzles and exhibit distinct personalities. Encountering a Great Pacific Octopus is a truly captivating experience for any diver.
Bluntnosed Sixgill Shark
A deep-water giant, a rare and thrilling sight for divers.
These ancient sharks are typically found in deep waters but occasionally venture into shallower areas, especially at night. They are large, slow-moving, and docile, making an encounter with a six-gill an unforgettable experience for the lucky diver.
Rockfish
Diverse and colorful, often camouflaged among rocky reefs.
The PNW is home to many species of rockfish, ranging in size and color. They are bottom dwellers, often found hiding in kelp forests or rocky structures. Their vibrant hues add splashes of color to the underwater landscape.
Lingcod
A formidable predator with an impressive set of teeth.
These large, elongated fish are ambush predators, often found resting on the seafloor, perfectly camouflaged. They have a distinctive, wide mouth filled with sharp teeth, making them a fascinating sight for divers observing their natural behavior.
Cabezon
A large-headed bottom dweller, masters of camouflage.
Cabezon are well-camouflaged fish, often blending seamlessly with their rocky surroundings. They are known for their large heads and broad pectoral fins. Divers need a keen eye to spot these masters of disguise as they lie in wait for prey.
World War 2 Wrecks
Underwater historical sites are now vibrant artificial reefs.
The waters of the Pacific Northwest hold several historical World War 2 wrecks, offering a unique diving experience. These submerged vessels have become thriving artificial reefs, attracting a diverse array of marine life, from colorful anemones to various fish species, making them fascinating sites for both history buffs and marine enthusiasts.
Boat Wrecks
The Pacific Northwest is home to numerous boat wrecks, ranging from historical vessels to more recent sinkings. These underwater structures provide fascinating dive sites and have become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting a diverse array of marine life. Exploring these submerged remnants offers a glimpse into both maritime history and thriving ecosystems.