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When to Fish
Albacore
Bass - Largemouth
Bass - Smallmouth
Catfish
Crappie
Flounder/Sanddab
Halibut
Lingcod
Perch
Rockfish
Salmon - Ocean
Salmon/Steelhead - River
Shark
Smelt
Striped Bass
Sturgeon
Trout/Salmon - Lakes
Trout - Streams

 

 

Techniques

bulletSaltwater perch fishing can be done from a boat or from the shore.
bulletPerch congregate for food and protection around structures like wharfs, piers, docks, pilings, rock retaining walls, etc. Look for these structures for your best chances.
bulletLook for a substantial incoming tide (3-4 foot difference between high and low tides) as the perch feed most voraciously at this time.

Tackle & Equipment

In general, use a heavy freshwater or light-medium saltwater rod (6-8 feet) and a reel that holds at least 100 yards of 10-25 lb monofilament line. You might consider using a longer 9 foot rod for fishing off a pier or rocky wall.

Bait & Rigging

Two types of rigs are used: traditional surf rig, or basic #6 hook right on the main line with a small split shot (or two) about 18 inches up.

SURF RIG

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BASIC HOOK RIG

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Common bait for perch include:

bulletSand crab (best for coastal fishing).
bulletGrass shrimp and fresh mussel (best for bay fishing).
bulletClams, pile worms, squid strips, and cut anchovies.

Best Bets

Harbors, jetties, pilings, docks, wharfs and piers around Monterey, San Francisco, Tomales and Humboldt Bays are good spots for coastal fishing.

Other good spots:

Boat Fishing

bulletSausalito's western shore
bulletWest side of Richmond and San Rafael bridges
bulletBerkeley and Emeryville waterfront
bulletTreasure Island Shoreline
bulletBerkeley Pier
bulletSan Franscisco waterfront from Fisherman's Wharf to Candlestick Point
bulletCoyote Point Harbor

Shore Fishing

bulletFort Point Headlands
bulletMarina Green rock wall
bulletFort Mason Pier
bulletSan Mateo Pier
bulletBerekely Pier
bulletAquatic Park/Muni Pier
bulletEmeryville Marina rock wall
bulletSausalito seawall