Monterey bay surf advice

Headed down to take the kids to the aquarium last minute style tomorrow. Will throw a couple of rods in the car in case I can get away. Anyone have any current surf fishing advice for the area?

Thanks!

Matt / Akfisher

If you want to catch surf perch then fish the sandy beaches to the north and that is probably your best bet. If you want to catch rock cod check the maps for MPA zones, the peninsula there is a checkerboard of MPA zones, be sure to avoid them. The end of the commercial pier will have fresh squid and anchovies for sale at good prices, maybe some mackerel to catch off the pier as well. Berkeley gulp motor oil colored sandworms have been the ticket for the surf perch. I think they call them camo color? these ones or the longer ones cut up into bits will work fine. A carolina leader or a high low surf leader will both work. The carolina leader is more effective. The surf leader is lazier. Stripers haven't really been biting along that beach that I know of but pencil poppers and kastmasters work for them if they are around.

Thanks Bambora! Carolina rig and gulp is what I use for Sonoma coast perch, so I should be all set! Will have to remember to throw a couple of Sabikis in the bag for the pier.

Matt / AKfisher