Fishing for perch out in the surf with sand crabs is one of my favorite types of fishing. I like to go to Pacifica around Mussel Rock, Linda Mar, and Rockaway Beach. I usually catch barred surf perch (most common) and sometimes some rainbow-colored perch (I think they're called rubber lip perch). The best time to go is at low tide, just after the tide has turned. At this time, the sand is exposed and you can dig for sand crabs.

One of the most frequently asked questions regarding sand crabs is, "how do you get them?" Well it's quite easy. I've seen people digging huge holes, or running into the waves and getting half wet, or digging too high up the surf line. Not only is this not necessary, but you will probably get a sore back and not many sand crabs. Here's how I do it. At low tide, you will see an area of small pebbles at the bottom of the sandy area. Don't dig here. Go up about 10 or 15 feet into the sandy area. Pick one spot and dig there with a shovel for a few scoops. You only need to go one or at the most two scoops deep. Most sand crabs that I get are in just a few inches of sand. When you dig your scoop, shuffle the sand off to the side. The sand crabs will wiggle free and you will notice (and catch) them at that time. There is no need to spray the sand half-way across the beach. I used to do this because that's what I saw others do. But this is not necessary. If there's nothing there after a few scoops, move on to a different spot. You'll see big sand crabs (about 1 to 1.5 inches) and small sand crabs (less than a half inch). You want to get the medium sized ones (about three quarters of an inch).

Another problem I see others make is that they cast too far. While this is not bad -- you can still catch them -- but there is no need. In fact, I've had better luck casting a bit shorter. You want to get into the deep drop-off holes, but not much past that.

I normally don't get wet when surf fishing with sand crabs. Bring a rod holder. Perch swim in schools so you may have some wait until you actually start catching them.

Good luck. If you have any questions or have anything to add, please let me know at Steve@LauNet.Com. Thanks!