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How to Catch Sand Bass Off Southern California

Sand bass, also known as sand seabass, are a popular target for anglers along the Southern California coast. These fish are known for their strong fighting abilities and delicious taste. Here's a guide to help you successfully catch sand bass off Southern California.

Best Locations

Sand bass are typically found in:

  • Rocky Reefs and Structure: Sand bass love to hang around rocky outcrops, underwater structures, and artificial reefs.

  • Harbors and Bays: These areas often have plenty of food and shelter for sand bass.

  • Nearshore Waters: Sand bass can be found in relatively shallow waters, typically between 20 to 60 feet deep.

Best Times

  • Summer Months: Sand bass are more active and abundant during the warmer months, particularly from May to September.

  • Night Fishing: Sand bass are known to bite well during the night, making evening and early morning trips particularly productive.

Gear and Tackle

  • Rod and Reel: A medium to heavy-action rod paired with a sturdy reel loaded with 15-30 lb test line is ideal.

  • Terminal Tackle: Use a variety of hooks, sinkers, and jigs to match the conditions and bait you're using.

  • Leader Line: A fluorocarbon leader can help reduce visibility in clear waters.

Bait and Lures

  • Live Bait: Live bait such as anchovies, sardines, and squid are highly effective for sand bass.

  • Artificial Lures: Soft plastic swimbaits, jerkbaits, and drop shot rigs can also be very effective. These lures mimic the natural prey of sand bass and can provoke aggressive strikes.

Techniques

  • Bottom Fishing: Sand bass are often found near the bottom, so using a weighted rig to keep your bait or lure near the seabed is essential.

  • Slow Jigging: Using slow jigging techniques with metal or soft plastic jigs can entice sand bass to bite.

  • Drifting: Drifting with live bait or lures along rocky structures or reefs can help you cover more ground and find active fish.

Tips for Success

  • Change Up Your Presentation: If you're not getting bites, try changing your bait, lure, or fishing technique until you find what works.

  • Be Patient: Sand bass can be picky at times, so patience is key. Sometimes it takes a while to find the right spot and the right bait.

  • Watch for Signs of Fish: Keep an eye out for birds diving or fish jumping, as these can indicate the presence of baitfish and predatory fish like sand bass.

Conclusion

Catching sand bass off Southern California can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By choosing the right locations, using appropriate gear and bait, and employing effective techniques, you'll increase your chances of landing these strong and tasty fish. Happy fishing, and tight lines!

**How to

open 7.

How to Catch Thresher and Mako Sharks Off Southern California

Thresher Sharks

Best Locations

  • Nearshore Waters: Thresher sharks are often found in nearshore waters from spring to fall.

  • Submarine Canyons: Areas like Newport Submarine Canyon are prime spots for targeting thresher sharks.

Best Times

  • Spring to Fall: Thresher sharks are more active and abundant during these months.

  • Day and Night: Both day and night fishing can be productive, but night fishing can be particularly exciting.

Gear and Tackle

  • Rod and Reel: A heavy-duty rod and reel with 50-100 lb test line is recommended.

  • Terminal Tackle: Use circle hooks to minimize foul-hooking and ensure a clean catch.

  • Bait and Lures: Live bait such as sardines and small mackerel work well. Chumming can also attract thresher sharks.

Techniques

  • Drift Fishing: Drift over areas where thresher sharks are known to feed.

  • Chumming: Use a chum slick to attract sharks to your location.

  • Vertical Jigging: Mimic the movement of prey to attract thresher sharks.

Mako Sharks

Best Locations

  • Offshore Waters: Mako sharks are typically found in offshore ridges, canyons, and seamounts.

  • San Diego Area: The waters off San Diego are known for their mako shark fishing.

Best Times

  • June to October: Mako sharks are more abundant during these months.

  • Day and Night: Both day and night fishing can be productive, but night fishing can be particularly thrilling.

Gear and Tackle

  • Rod and Reel: A heavy-duty rod and reel with 80-130 lb test line is recommended.

  • Terminal Tackle: Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs and ensure a strong connection.

  • Bait and Lures: Fresh fish such as mackerel and squid are effective. Chumming can also attract makos.

Techniques

  • Chumming: Create a chum slick to attract makos to your location.

  • Trolling: Trolling deep-diving lures can be effective.

  • Fly Fishing: For a unique challenge, try fly fishing for makos.

Tips for Success

  • Be Patient: Both thresher and mako sharks can be elusive, so persistence is key.

  • Watch for Signs of Fish: Look for birds diving or fish jumping, as these can indicate the presence of baitfish and predatory sharks.

  • Safety First: Always prioritize safety when fishing for large sharks, as they can be powerful and unpredictable.

Catching these sharks can be an unforgettable experience. Good luck, and tight lines! If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to ask!