Big wave surfers kick off Mavericks season in Half Moon Bay amid historic El Nino expected

HALF MOON BAY, Calif. (KGO) -- Many local surfers say they're excited about the prospect of a super El Nino.

On Saturday, the community will be gathering at Mavericks in Half Moon Bay to kick off the season.

For Half Moon Bay resident Jeff Clark, there's nothing better than surfing.

"What do I love about surfing...is the freedom," he told ABC7 Eyewitness News reporter Tim Johns on Friday.

The surfing legend has been riding waves for more than 60 years and is perhaps best known for popularizing surfing at Mavericks near Half Moon Bay.

On Saturday, his surf shop will host a festival to officially kick off the start of the surfing season.

"There's these hurricanes in the southern part of the state that are kind of coming onshore and they're throwing swell. And we're seeing swell all the way up here," said Clark.

MORE: El Niño strengthens to highest category with 70% chance of record-breaking winter, new report says

While most in the surfing community head in the water every year, this year has the potential to be especially memorable.

That's thanks to the super El Nino expected in the coming months.

"We're going to get more storms, big waves, but finding those clean days is going to be the hard part," said Clark.

While many are excited about the start of the surfing season, there are also serious factors to consider.

MORE: Visitors from all over the world flock to Mavericks Beach as surfers brave massive waves

When a surf contest is called, safety is always top of mind.

And that safety is for everyone, both surfers and spectators.

Duke Brouwer works for the local harbor patrol.

He says during past surfing contests, some people have died.

"We want people to come down. We want them to come watch the big waves but they have to be aware of where that safety area is," said Brouwer.

As for Clark, he plans on being in the water whenever he can.

Enjoying every second in his so-called "front yard".

"The ability to go out in one of the greatest powers on the planet and dance with it. Dance with that power."