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Spotfin Croaker

Roncador stearnsi
DrumSaltwaterSport Fish

Range

Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Point Conception, California south to the Gulf of California. Found in the surf zone on sandy beaches, in bays, and nearshore coastal areas. One of the most popular surf fishing targets in Southern California. Makes a distinctive croaking sound. Named for the distinctive large black spot at the base of the pectoral fin.

How to Catch Spotfin Croaker

Equipment

60°F–74°F. Found in the surf zone and in Southern California bays — most abundant in summer. One of the finest-eating Southern California surf fish — sweet, white, firm meat.

Tackle & Bait

Best Lures:
Soft plastic baits in sand crab colors produce strikes in the surf.

Best Baits:
Fresh soft-shell sand crabs (mole crabs) are the number one bait. Fresh ghost shrimp are outstanding. Fresh mussels produce excellent results. Blood worms are very effective. Light surf gear with fresh sand crabs in the wave wash produces the best results.

Game Qualities

Typically 1–4 lbs and 12–20 inches. Maximum approximately 9 lbs. World record: 9 lbs from California. One of the trophy catches for dedicated Southern California surf anglers.

Taxonomy

kingdomAnimalia
phylumChordata
classActinopterygii
orderPerciformes
familySciaenidae
genusRoncador
speciesRoncador stearnsii
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