Surfer Rescued After Clinging to Lobster Trap Buoy in High Surf
A surfer was rescued after losing his board and clinging to a lobster trap buoy for hours off the California coast near Haskell's Beach, Goleta.
A 26-year-old surfer was dramatically rescued off the coast of Santa Barbara County after losing his board in high surf and clinging to a lobster trap buoy for nearly an hour. The incident occurred near Haskell's Beach in Goleta on Friday evening, February 6, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- A surfer was rescued after being swept away by high surf and clinging to a lobster trap buoy.
- The rescue took place near Haskell's Beach in Goleta, Santa Barbara County.
- The surfer's friend immediately reported him missing, aiding the swift rescue.
- Aerial drones with infrared cameras were instrumental in locating the stranded surfer.
- The surfer was found a quarter-mile offshore and did not require medical attention.
The Ordeal
The surfer was enjoying a night surf with a friend when he lost his board and was swept out to sea by the powerful waves. His friend acted quickly, reporting him missing to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department around 6:30 p.m. This prompt action was credited by rescuers with making a significant difference in the outcome.
While awaiting rescue, the surfer managed to grab onto a lobster trap buoy, a common marker used by fishermen to indicate the location of their traps. This provided him with a crucial point of flotation in the choppy waters.
Rescue Operation
Rescuers initially found the surfer's board washed ashore on the beach. Utilizing aerial drones equipped with infrared cameras, search teams scanned the ocean. The drones successfully spotted the surfer approximately a quarter-mile offshore, clinging to the buoy.
Video footage released by the fire department shows a small figure in the water, which, as the drone approached, revealed itself to be the surfer looking up. Two rescue swimmers were then dispatched and guided the surfer back to shore amidst the challenging sea conditions.
Aftermath and Safety Advice
Upon reaching land, the 26-year-old surfer was evaluated by rescuers. Fortunately, he did not require any medical attention and was released at the scene. Santa Barbara firefighters expressed gratitude for the quick thinking of the friend, the dedicated rescue teams, and the advanced drone technology that contributed to the successful rescue.
Rescuers emphasized the importance of safety in the water, advising, "Never go into the ocean alone — especially in rough conditions. It can save lives." The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with surfing in high surf conditions.