Surfperch is abundant in Oregon and Washington coastal waters and hundreds of fishing opportunities lie along both states' sandy beaches. Surfperch are the most popular fish for surf anglers and are known to reach up to 2 pounds in weight.
Obtain a fishing license. Washington anglers age 15 and above and Oregon anglers age 14 and older must have a juvenile angling license. When fishing for surfperch in the Pacific Ocean within 3 miles of shore between two states, such as in Cape Falcon and Leadbetter Point in Washington, either state license is valid.
Fish during spring and early summer because this is the most productive time to catch surfperch. Surfperch gather in schools along sandy shorelines to spawn during this period.
Use heavy tackle for handling the rough surf of the surfperch. Consider purchasing a 9- to 11-foot rod that can handle a 2- to 6-ounce weight. A spinning reel large enough to hold 200 to 300 yards of 15- to 30-pound monofilament line is ideal. You can also rent rods and reel from one of the many bait and tackle shops in the area.
Use baits like mole crabs, sand shrimp, mussels, marine worms and clam necks. You can also gather shrimp, crabs and worm baits during low tide from the same beach you intend to surf fish. For artificial lures, try plastic sandworm baits.
Cast off on an incoming tide about an hour or two before high tide. Look for spots with a deep hole or depression that can hold surfperch. Sandy and rocky areas near jetties and steep-sloped beaches where the waves break hard are productive. Also look for areas where the shore cuts inward. In Jefferson County, Washington, beach accesses 4 and 6 and Ruby Beach are popular areas for surfperch fishing.
Observe possession or bag limits for surfperch. The daily bag limit is 15 in Oregon and 10 in Washington. Always check the most current fishing regulations as possession limits can change for every fishing season.
