Species

Barred Surfperch

Amphistichus argenteus · family Embiotocidae

Live · updated

The staple of the California surf — caught right in the wash on sand crabs, bloodworms, and small grubs. A year-round, shore-accessible fishery that needs no boat; best on a building tide into structure and troughs.

Water temp
50–68°F (ideal 60°F)
Tide
incoming
Moon
either
Depth
1–12 ft
Active months
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

CA

pacific

Creel
20

No minimum size. Part of the 20-fish general finfish bag (no more than 10 of any one species).

Source · verified 2026-05-29

OR

pacific

Creel
15

Surfperch (all species): 15/day, no minimum size. Open year-round from the beach.

Source · verified 2026-05-29

WA

pacific

Creel
12

Surfperch: 12/day, no minimum size. Open year-round from the beach.

Source · verified 2026-05-29

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