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Walleye Surfperch

Walleye Surfperch

Hyperprosopon argenteum
SurfperchSaltwaterSport Fish

Range

Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Vancouver Island, British Columbia south to Baja California. Found in the surf zone, in harbors around dock pilings, and in nearshore rocky areas in 0–50 feet. Named for the large, walleye-like eyes — more prominent than most surfperch. Tolerates the protected, calmer water of harbors and bays better than most surfperch.

How to Catch Walleye Surfperch

Equipment

52°F–65°F. Found in the surf zone and in harbors — very common around dock pilings and breakwaters as well as ocean beaches.

Tackle & Bait

Best Lures:
Small jigs near structure produce catches. Small Beetle Spins work well.

Best Baits:
Live and fresh shrimp are the top bait. Sand crabs work well in the surf. Pile worms are excellent near pilings. Light tackle near dock pilings and in the surf zone.

Game Qualities

Typically 8–12 inches and 0.5–1 lb. Maximum approximately 1.5 lbs. Silvery with faint spotting. A common catch from California piers and in the surf zone.

Taxonomy

kingdomAnimalia
phylumChordata
classActinopterygii
orderPerciformes
familyEmbiotocidae
genusHyperprosopon
speciesHyperprosopon argenteum
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