Sometimes you’ve just got to get back to the basics. You know — ditch the boat, the 50-pound tackle boxes and $20 baits and keep things simple. Grab a rod, throw some terminal gear into a box that fits in your pocket and head for the water.
That’s precisely what Reilly and I just did…we hit some Nor Cal beaches for redtail surf perch last week for a couple days — and I have to say we both had a blast. Here’s a little photo essay of the mission. If you get fired up and want to try it on your own, check out my little how-to article Light Tackle Surf Perch. Otherwise, sit back and check out the pix…
Reilly casting to surf perch along a lonely stretch of beach. Not a lot of competition here!
The Business End of a redtail
You really can't beat the view out here!
Reilly surfing a nice redtail
I won't say these guys came on every cast...but it was close!
You've gotta be careful out there! Never turn your back on the ocean...
I guess that's why they don't call 'em red heads..
Redtails are cool-looking critters and are a ball to catch!
Go light for surf perch...it's way more fun that way!
The second morning, the weather got a little snotty but it didn't hurt the bite...
Waders are optional in the summer...
On day two, we moved to another beach...the fish were smaller but they bit like pirhanas!
Surf perch don't live in ugly places!
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Good fishing to all fishermens!
My good friend and fishing buddy told me about his exciting trip to klamath and wants me to join him this weekend for some redtail perch fishing. This is my first trip to the north coast and I have never did any surf fishing before. I’m from the S.F. Bay area and I can tell you I can’t wait to see the beauty of the California coast and do some Redtail Perch fishing. My Fellow Fishermens , can you please give me tips and suggest the best Bait and Tackle to use. I only learned of this type of surfperch, and still researching for more ifno. What bait should I get? what size hook and set up should I use? Do they bite on lures? I have so many questions to ask!! Can you guys help me? I would love your inputs and suggestions! Thanks to all!
Fish on!!
Sincerely,
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The Mouth of the Klamath is an amazing perch fishery! Here are all the basics you need to know: LIGHT TACKLE SURF PERCH
Go to zuma beach. 3lb range. And take.
What. You. Need and let the rest go
Great blog. Inspired me to buy 2 new reels so my son and I can give this a shot. Thanks for always keeping us aware of the many fishing oppty here in NoCal
You got it, Herb. You two will have a ball!
Troy…nope, it's all summer long (and even in the winter when the seas are down). We were coming home from a Klamath River springer trip and hit beaches in the H.C. — Humboldt Countty. Doesn't really matter where…just find one with some slope and small surf and you're in!
Hey JD, had it stuck in my head that this was a Spring thing- how far North did you guys go and how long will it still be hot? Just saw one of your posters at Star Bait in Marysville, nice!