Barred Surfperch

Oceans & Range: Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Bodega Bay south to Baja California — the most abundant surfperch in the Southern California surf zone. A member of the surfperch family — one of the few fish families that gives birth to live young fully formed. Found along the California coast in sandy beach surf zones and nearshore rocky areas.

Preferred Water Temperature: 52°F–65°F. A cool-water Pacific species found in the surf zone and shallow nearshore waters. The dominant surfperch in the Southern California surf. Concentrates in troughs and holes in the surf zone where sand crabs are most abundant

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 4 lbs. World record: 4 lbs 2 oz. The primary target of Southern California surf fishing — the 'surf perch capital of the world' designation belongs to this species. Surfperch are viviparous — females give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Popular target for surf anglers using light spinning tackle.

Best Lures: Small jigs (1/8–1/4 oz) with soft plastic bodies in pink, chartreuse, or white produce consistent results. Small swimbaits near the bottom in the surf zone. Small Berkley Gulp! grubs are very effective. Small tube jigs produce catches along rocky shorelines.

Best Baits: Fresh sand crabs (mole crabs) are the top bait for all surfperch in the surf zone. Pile worms and blood worms are excellent. Fresh mussels produce results near rocky areas. Ghost shrimp work in bays. Small pieces of fresh shrimp are effective. Light surf spinning gear with 6–12 lb line and small hooks (size 4–8) is standard.