Kolin Hansen
OAK LEAF DIVE SITE
VANCOUVER ISLAND, CANADA
A Pacific spiny lumpsucker cruises through the shallows during breeding season. These pea-size fish, covered in tiny spines, use their suction cup–like pelvic fins to cling to rocks and kelp. Despite their size, they’re surprisingly bold and feisty. They’re tough to find, but when you do spot one, their lively presence makes the search worthwhile. I captured this shot during a cold night dive.
NEED TO KNOW
This popular cold-water shore dive is great year-round, but for lumpsuckers, it’s best at night in winter, when they’re more active. Be careful not to disturb the rocky, silty environment.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Kolin Hansen (@Getting_Salty_)
