LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

• Surf perch, a popular sportfish known for its abundance and feisty nature, can be found along the sandy beaches and coastal waters of the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers seeking a rewarding surf fishing experience often target surf perch in Oregon and Washington. Here are some notable locations for surf perch fishing in the region:

• Oregon: The beaches along the Oregon coast offer excellent opportunities for surf perch fishing. Popular spots include Seaside Beach, Cannon Beach, Pacific City Beach, and Port Orford Beach.

• Washington: The coastal beaches of Washington, such as Long Beach, Ocean Shores, and Twin Harbors Beach, provide favorable conditions for surf perch fishing. Other notable locations include Westport Beach and Grayland Beach.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

• Surf perch inhabit the surf zone along sandy beaches and coastal areas. They prefer areas with a mixture of sand and rocky bottoms, as well as near structures such as jetties, piers, and submerged rocks. Surf perch are often found in shallow water, especially during high tide, where they search for food in the sand and debris stirred up by the waves.

PATTERNS

SPRING

• During spring, surf perch become more active as the water temperature rises. They move into shallower waters to spawn and feed. Look for them in the surf zone close to shore. Fishing with sandworms, clams, shrimp, or small pieces of baitfish can be effective during this season.

SUMMER

• In the summer months, surf perch can be found in the surf zone, particularly during high tide. They tend to move closer to the shore to feed on small crustaceans, sand fleas, and other invertebrates. Fishing with sandworms, shrimp, or artificial lures such as small grubs or soft plastics can yield good results.

FALL

• Fall is an excellent time to target surf perch as they continue to feed actively. They may be found in the surf zone or slightly deeper water, depending on the conditions. Fishing with sand crabs, clams, or using small jigs and spoons can be effective during this season.

WINTER

• In winter, surf perch activity slows down, but they can still be caught in the surf zone. They may move to slightly deeper water or areas with calmer surf. Fishing with sandworms, shrimp, or using small jigs and spoons can be productive during this season.

BAIT

• Surf perch are opportunistic feeders and can be targeted using a variety of bait and lures. Popular bait options include sandworms, shrimp, clams, small pieces of baitfish, or sand crabs. It's important to present the bait close to the bottom where surf perch typically forage.

• Artificial lures such as small grubs, soft plastics, spoons, or jigs in natural colors resembling small baitfish or invertebrates can also be effective. Experimenting with different retrieval speeds and techniques can help trigger a response from surf perch.

Techniques

Bait Fishing

• How: Use natural baits such as sand crabs, clams, shrimp, or mussels. Cast your bait out into the surf and allow it to settle on the sandy bottom. Keep your line tight and be ready for the subtle bites of surf perch. Experiment with different baits and locations until you find where the perch are actively feeding.

• Gear: Rods: Light to medium spinning rods. Reels: 2000-3000 size spinning reels. Line: 6-10lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Terminal Tackle: Carolina rigs, high-low rigs, or bottom rigs. Hooks: Size 6-10 bait hooks or circle hooks. Bait: Sand crabs, clams, shrimp, or mussels.

Artificial Lures

• How: Surf perch can also be caught using artificial lures. Cast your lure into the surf and retrieve it with a slow and steady retrieve. Try using lures that imitate small baitfish, sand crabs, or shrimp. Vary your retrieval speed and technique to entice the perch to strike.

• Gear: Rods: Light to medium spinning rods. Reels: 2000-3000 size spinning reels. Line: 6-10lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Lures: Grubs, swimbaits, spoons, or small jigs.

Fly Fishing

• How: Surf perch can be targeted using fly fishing gear as well. Look for areas with sandbars, rocky outcrops, or troughs. Use small flies that imitate sand crabs, shrimp, or baitfish. Cast your fly into the surf and retrieve it with short strips to mimic natural prey movement.

• Gear: Rods: 5-7wt fly rods. Reels: Reels with a smooth drag system. Line: Floating or intermediate sinking fly lines. Leaders: 7-9ft tapered leaders with a 6-10lb tippet. Flies: Sand crab imitations, shrimp patterns, or small baitfish patterns.