How To Catch Surfperch

Surfperch are popular fish for anglers as they are exciting to fish, easily located, plentiful, and taste good. Do you want to learn how to catch surfperch? Surfperch is found along the Pacific coast and can be caught all year and which makes it an attractive game fish for anglers. In this article, we will discuss how to catch surfperch as well as the basic gear needed.

How To Catch Surfperch

When you are fishing for surfperch along the beach, look for troughs, deep holes, gullies, rocks, and pockets. You will often find surfperch in those structures looking for food that the currents will wash up in their direction.

Cast your line and let it settle on the bottom. Then reel up your slack line and keep it taught. Retrieve your bait slowly and let it rest. Continue working your bait until you find structures where surfperch are holed up hunting down prey fish.

When currents move parallel to the shore, cast up the current and let the bait drift with the current. Where the current meets a deeper patch of water is a good place to fish as most likely, that’s where surfperch will be hanging out in search of baitfish.

1. Surf Fishing

Surf fishing for surfperch involves casting bait or lures into the surf from the shoreline. Anglers typically use long rods and reels designed for casting long distances. The key is to cast beyond the breaking waves where surfperch often forage for food in the sandy or rocky bottom. Baits like sandworms, shrimp, mussels, and small fish are commonly used. Anglers need to be mindful of the tide, currents, and wave action to maximize their success.

2. Sand Rigs

Sand rigs are specialized setups designed for surf fishing on sandy beaches. They typically consist of a sliding sinker above a swivel, which allows the bait to move naturally in the current while keeping the sinker anchored in the sand. A leader line attached to the swivel holds the hook and bait, which can vary depending on the angler’s preference and the target species. Sand rigs are versatile and effective for catching surfperch in varying surf conditions.

3. High-Low Rig

The high-low rig, also known as the double dropper loop rig, is a popular setup for surfperch fishing. It consists of a mainline with two or more dropper loops tied along its length, each holding a hook and bait. This rig allows anglers to present multiple baits at different depths simultaneously, increasing their chances of enticing surfperch. Common baits for the high-low rig include sand crabs, bloodworms, and small pieces of shrimp or clam.

4. Float Fishing

Float fishing, also known as bobber fishing, can be effective for targeting surfperch, especially in calmer surf conditions. Anglers use a float or bobber attached to their line to suspend the bait at a specific depth above the bottom. This method allows for precise bait presentation and can be particularly effective when fishing near structure or in areas with submerged vegetation where surfperch congregate.

5. Spoon Casting

Spoon casting involves casting metal spoons into the surf and retrieving them through the water to mimic the movements of small fish or other prey. Surfperch are known to strike at shiny and flashy lures like spoons, especially when they are actively feeding near the surface. Anglers can vary the speed and depth of their retrieves to find what works best on a given day.

Surfperch Tackle

A 9 to 11-foot rod for 2 to 6-ounce weight that holds 200 to 300 yards of 15 to 30-pound monofilament line will work. For hooks, you can use #4 or #2 hooks. A pyramid sinker and swivels will also be needed for your setup. The size of the weight will depend on the surf conditions on the day.

Best Surfperch Baits

1. Mole Crabs

Mole crabs, also known as sand crabs or sand fleas, are highly effective baits for surfperch fishing. These small crustaceans burrow into the sand along the shoreline, where they are preyed upon by surfperch and other fish species. Anglers typically collect mole crabs by digging in the sand near the water’s edge or using specialized sand flea rakes.

Once collected, mole crabs can be threaded onto a hook, either whole or in pieces, and presented to surfperch in the surf zone. The natural scent and appearance of mole crabs make them irresistible to surfperch, making them a preferred bait choice for anglers targeting these fish species.

2. Marine Worms

Marine worms, such as bloodworms, lugworms, and ragworms, are popular baits for surfperch fishing. These worms are often found in the intertidal zone, where they burrow into the sand or mud in search of food. Anglers can collect marine worms by digging in the sand or using specialized bait pumps.

Once obtained, marine worms can be threaded onto a hook and presented to surfperch in the surf zone. The natural scent and movement of these worms make them highly attractive to surfperch, enticing them to bite. Marine worms are a versatile bait option that can be effective in various surf and beach fishing conditions, making them a staple choice for anglers targeting surfperch.

3. Sand Shrimp

Sand shrimp, also known as ghost shrimp or mole crabs, are highly effective baits for surfperch fishing. These small crustaceans are commonly found in the sandy surf zone, where they burrow into the sand to feed and evade predators.

Anglers often collect sand shrimp by using a sand flea rake or by hand-digging in the wet sand near the water’s edge. Once collected, sand shrimp can be threaded onto a hook and presented to surfperch. The natural scent and movement of sand shrimp make them irresistible to surfperch, enticing them to bite.

Anglers typically fish sand shrimp on a Carolina rig or a high-low rig, allowing the bait to drift naturally with the current along the sandy bottom. Sand shrimp are particularly effective for catching surfperch species like barred surfperch and redtail surfperch, making them a popular choice among surf anglers.

4. Mussels

Mussels can be an effective bait for surfperch fishing, especially when targeting larger species like barred surfperch or redtail surfperch. These bivalve mollusks are naturally found in rocky intertidal areas along the coast, where surfperch often forage for food.

Anglers can collect fresh mussels from rocks or purchase them from bait shops for use as bait. To prepare mussels for surfperch fishing, anglers typically remove them from their shells and cut them into smaller pieces to fit onto the hook. The scent and flavor of fresh mussels can attract surfperch, enticing them to feed.

Anglers may use mussels on a variety of rigs, including Carolina rigs or high-low rigs, allowing the bait to drift naturally with the current. When fishing with mussels, it’s essential to securely thread them onto the hook to prevent them from being easily stripped by smaller fish. Overall, mussels can be a reliable bait option for surfperch fishing, particularly in areas where these mollusks are abundant.

5. Clam necks

Clam necks are a popular and effective bait choice for surfperch fishing, particularly in areas where clams are abundant along the shoreline. Surfperch are known to feed on small crustaceans, mollusks, and other marine organisms found in sandy or rocky coastal environments, making clam necks a natural and attractive bait option.

Anglers can collect fresh clam necks by digging in the sand at low tide or purchase them from bait shops. To prepare clam necks for surfperch fishing, anglers typically thread them onto the hook, ensuring that they are securely attached to withstand the force of casting and the attention of feeding fish.

The scent and texture of clam necks can entice surfperch to bite, making them a reliable choice for anglers targeting these prized coastal species. When fishing with clam necks, anglers may use a variety of rigs, including Carolina rigs or high-low rigs, allowing the bait to drift naturally with the current. Overall, clam necks are an excellent bait option for surfperch fishing and can increase the chances of a successful day on the water.

6. Squid

Squid is a versatile and effective bait choice for surfperch fishing, offering anglers a reliable option to attract these coastal species. Surfperch are opportunistic feeders known to prey on a variety of small marine organisms, including squid, which makes it a natural bait option.

Squid emits a strong scent in the water, which can help attract surfperch even in areas with low visibility or strong currents. Anglers often use squid strips or whole squid pieces as bait, ensuring they are securely threaded onto the hook to withstand casting and the attention of feeding fish.

Squid offers a combination of visual appeal and enticing scent, making it a popular choice among surfperch anglers. When using squid as bait, anglers may employ a variety of rigs, such as Carolina rigs or high-low rigs, allowing the bait to drift naturally with the current or bounce along the sandy bottom. Overall, squid is a reliable and effective bait option for surfperch fishing, increasing the chances of hooking into these prized coastal species.

7. Nightcrawlers

Nightcrawlers, also known as earthworms, are a classic bait option for surfperch fishing that has stood the test of time. These lively and wriggling creatures are irresistible to many species of fish, including surfperch. When presented correctly, nightcrawlers can attract surfperch with their natural movement and scent, enticing them to strike.

Anglers often thread a section of nightcrawler onto a hook, ensuring it stays secure during casting and retrieving. Nightcrawlers emit a natural scent that can help attract surfperch in the vicinity, especially in areas with low visibility or where other bait options may be less effective. They are particularly effective when fishing in sandy or muddy bottoms, where surfperch often forage for food.

Additionally, nightcrawlers are readily available at most bait shops and are relatively affordable, making them a convenient and accessible bait choice for surfperch anglers of all skill levels. Overall, nightcrawlers are a reliable and effective bait option for targeting surfperch, providing anglers with a versatile and proven method to lure these coastal fish.

Best Surfperch Lures

1. Berkley Gulp Sandworms

Berkley Gulp Sandworms are a popular and effective artificial lure for surfperch fishing. These lifelike soft plastic baits mimic the appearance and movement of natural sandworms, making them highly appealing to surfperch and other species of fish.

Berkley Gulp Sandworms are infused with powerful scents and attractants that enhance their effectiveness, enticing surfperch to strike even in challenging conditions. Anglers can rig these soft baits on a jig head or drop-shot rig and cast them into the surf zone or near structures where surfperch are known to feed.

The realistic action and scent dispersion of Berkley Gulp Sandworms helps attract surfperch from a distance, increasing the chances of a successful hookup. These lures are durable and can withstand multiple bites, ensuring anglers get more value out of each bait.

Berkley Gulp Sandworms come in various colors and sizes to match the preferences of surfperch and adapt to different fishing conditions. Overall, Berkley Gulp Sandworms is a versatile and reliable lure option for surfperch anglers seeking to enhance their catch rates and enjoy a more exciting fishing experience.

2. Lucky Craft

Lucky Craft is a renowned brand known for producing high-quality fishing lures, including those suitable for surfperch fishing. Their range of lures includes various designs and colors specifically tailored to attract surfperch in different conditions and environments.

Lucky Craft lures often feature realistic finishes, lifelike movements, and innovative designs that mimic the natural prey of surfperch, making them highly effective at enticing strikes. Anglers can choose from a variety of Lucky Craft lures, including crankbaits, jerkbaits, and topwater plugs, depending on the fishing conditions and the behavior of surfperch.

These lures are crafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Lucky Craft lures are designed to cast accurately and cover a wide area of water, allowing anglers to target surfperch in various locations such as sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and nearshore structures.

With their reputation for producing quality lures that consistently produce results, Lucky Craft remains a popular choice among surfperch anglers looking to enhance their fishing experience and increase their chances of landing trophy-sized fish.

3. Rigs

While rigs are typically associated with bait fishing, they can also be effective as a lure for surfperch. Specifically, high-low rigs or Carolina rigs with colorful beads, floats, or spinner blades attached to the leader can mimic the appearance of small baitfish or crustaceans, attracting the attention of surfperch.

These rigs are designed to add movement and flash to the presentation, making them more appealing to the fish. Additionally, rigs with multiple hooks allow anglers to present different bait options simultaneously, increasing the chances of enticing a strike from surfperch.

When using rigs as lures for surfperch, anglers can experiment with different rig setups, bait combinations, and retrieval speeds to determine the most effective presentation for the prevailing conditions. Overall, rigs offer versatility and adaptability, making them a valuable option for anglers targeting surfperch in a variety of surf fishing environments.

4. Swimbaits

Swimbaits are a popular lure choice for surfperch fishing due to their lifelike swimming action and versatility. These soft plastic lures are designed to mimic baitfish, making them highly attractive to predatory surfperch.

Anglers can choose from a variety of swimbait styles, including paddle tails, minnow imitations, and shad profiles, to match the forage species present in the surf zone. Swimbaits are typically rigged on jig heads or weighted swimbait hooks, allowing them to be cast long distances and retrieved through the water column at various depths.

When targeting surfperch with swimbaits, anglers can employ a steady retrieve or a twitch-and-pause retrieve to imitate the erratic movements of injured baitfish, triggering aggressive strikes from hungry perch.

Additionally, swimbaits can be effective when fished near structure such as rocks, jetties, or submerged sandbars where surfperch often congregate. Overall, swimbaits offer anglers a realistic and versatile lure option for enticing surfperch in a wide range of surf fishing conditions.

5. Jerkbaits

Jerkbaits are a popular choice among anglers targeting surfperch due to their realistic appearance and enticing action in the water. These slender, minnow-shaped lures are typically made of hard plastic or wood and feature a long, slender profile with a segmented body and a lip or bill at the front.

When retrieved, jerkbaits dart and dive erratically, mimicking the movements of injured baitfish, which can trigger aggressive strikes from predatory surfperch. Anglers can fish jerkbaits with a variety of techniques, including a steady retrieve, erratic jerks, or pauses in the retrieve to imitate wounded prey.

Jerkbaits are often effective when fished in areas with strong currents, along drop-offs, or near submerged structure where surfperch are likely to ambush their prey. Additionally, anglers can experiment with different colors and sizes of jerkbaits to match the local forage species and water conditions, increasing their chances of success. Overall, jerkbaits offer anglers a versatile and effective lure option for targeting surfperch in a variety of surf fishing scenarios.

How To Catch Surfperch In California

When fishing for surfperch in California, look for structures such as troughs, rocks, gullies, holes, channels, and the shore break lip. Study the water, and observe where the waves are breaking and where the water appears darker and deeper than other areas.

Target those areas and their edges where the sandy, foamy water meets the deeper water. There will be fish sitting in there and waiting for the tide to bring baitfish its way.

You will find surfperch in these areas feeding on sand crabs. Other bait you can use when fishing for surfperch are sandworm grubs, bloodworms, mussels, shrimp, clams, and lugworms. Lures can also be used when fishing for surfperch and Fishbites bloodworm scented strips as well as soft artificial grubs work well. Presented with the Carolina rig, the soft artificial grubs are very effective.

Casting is the preferred fishing method used when fishing for surfperch in California and slowly retrieving while staying in direct contact with the sinker. This allows you to feel it bouncing on the bottom. Additionally, don’t stay in one spot very long as surfperch are mobile and will always be moving.

How To Catch Surfperch In Washington

Look for structures like troughs, holes, jetties, rocky areas, and channels. Surfperch will be near those structures looking for prey. Clams, shrimp, squid, small fish, sandworms, and nightcrawlers are baits that you can use when fishing for surfperch in Washington. Surfperch lives in the surf and casting is the best fishing method to use.

You don’t need to cast very far as surfperch are usually found under the breaking waves. A steeply sloping ocean beach with waves breaking close to the shore will have surfperch in there feeding on baitfish brought along by the tide. Surfperch will be found there very close to the shores.

How To Catch Surfperch In The Surf

Surfperch is always in the surfs feeding on marine life that is brought to the shores by the waves. When fishing for surfperch, look for areas where the waves are breaking. Surfperch will always be in there, very close to the shore. Areas where the water appears darker than other surrounding areas indicating that it is deeper and surfperch will be in those deeper pockets

Additionally, you can find surfperch in troughs, jetties, holes, rocks, gullies, and channels. Fish near those areas with baits and lures. Squid, nightcrawlers, shrimp, clams, sandworms, mussels, and bloodworms are some of the baits that work well for surfperch.

Artificial grubs are also very effective when fishing for surfperch. Casting is the fishing method used when fishing for surfperch and you don’t need to cast very far as they are very close to the shore.

How To Catch Surfperch In Oregon

When fishing for surfperch in Oregon, look for deep holes, troughs, jetties, and rocky areas. Surfperch can be found in those areas as they feed on bait. Steeply sloped beaches where the waves break hard will also be areas to target for surfperch. Additionally, sandy areas and areas where the shore cuts inward will also hold surfperch.

Sand shrimp, marine worms, clam necks, mussels, and mole crabs are some of the bait that can be used when fishing for surfperch. Moreover, lures, such as artificial grubs can be used when fishing for surfperch as they stay on the hook and catch fish.

Casting is the fishing method used for surfperch as it is found in the surf very close to the shore. There is no need to cast far into the water as they are literally very close to where you are standing

Surfperch Fishing Tips

1. The best time to fish for surfperch is spring and early summer.

2. You will get the best fishing done on an incoming tide usually an hour or two before high tide.

3. When fishing for surfperch along the shoreline, look for deep holes, reefs, jetties, troughs, gullies, rocks, and pockets where surfperch could be.

4. You will need heavy tackle for surfperch fishing.

5. Surfperch baits are crabs, shrimps, mussels, worms, and clams.

6. You can often find surfperch 30 feet from the shoreline.

7. Surfperch are aggressive feeders. Once you locate them, you will catch some.

8. Surfperch is a schooling fish. When you find one, there are many in that same area.

9. Steep sandy beaches with small pebbles are good for surfperch fishing.

10. Be at the shore 2 hours before high tide.

11. You can decide to fish the outgoing tide until the biting stops.

12. Always study the water and identify structures like troughs, holes, jetties, and deep pockets.

13. Braided lines are a popular choice among surf anglers for surf fishing.

14. Be on the lookout for sand crab beds and cast your line on the edges of the sand bars.

15. Let your bait appear natural to the fish by letting it hit the bottom.

16. When your rig reaches the fish, wait for a few seconds and maintain line tension to get the bait in front of the fish.

17. If you are not getting any action in one area, move to other areas. The fish is always moving and you must move also to find them.

18. The activity of baitfish decreases between the height of the high tide and the lowest depths of the low tide. This lull in baitfish activity also impacts the feeding of the surfperch and other predators.

19. Baitfish are moved around by the shifting currents when the tide comes in or goes out. This movement of the baitfish by the tide excites and attracts surfperch and other fishes.

20. Learn how to fish with the rhythm of the tide and you will be successful with surf fishing.

21. Surfperch likes gently sloping lines off the coast and can often be found feeding in the break of the waves.

22. Scout the beach when the tide is low to identify troughs, holes, jetties, and pockets.

23. Surfperch can be caught year-round.

24. Surfperch will shoal close to the shorelines for spawning during late spring and summer. They will be engaged in feeding at this time and can easily be located.

The Bottom Line

Surfperch is a popular gamefish for anglers that can be caught all year. It is found on the Pacific coast and is fun to catch. To be successful in fishing for surfperch, you have to study the water, find structures where the fish may be hanging out to ambush baitfish, and have the right equipment.

If you also like to catch halibut, tarpon, and cobia, then read how to catch halibut, how to catch yellow perch, how to catch tarpon, and how to catch cobia. We hope you will learn a few tips to enhance your fishing skills to catch more of these fish.