San Diego & SoCal Fishing Forums

I want to start expanding my horizons, especially since I have a few jetties within a 30 minutes drive from me, and I haven't had much experience fishing the salt.

So, if someone would ask me for the very basics on how to catch a largemouth bass from shore, I would tell them:

1. Find structure
2. Use a dropshot
3. Or a Senko

Is there something nice and neat, but for fishing jetties?

I'll be rolling with a spinning rod and a casting rod, and prefer using artificials.

I've been out twice and and the first time, I think it was beginners luck. I was throwing a 3/16th ounce tungsten ball head jig with a 2" motor oil grub, and a 1/4th to 3/8th ounce big hammer style jig head with a keitech swimbait. Got some unknown fish that I dubbed a Sea Bluegill and a calico. On repeat visits, I've been skunked.

I'm doing research and much like freshwater bass fishing, there are so many variables to consider, and I'm thinking TIDE has a lot to do with it.

Your sea bluegill is probably a black or rubberlip perch.

There's multiple methods for targeting fish in jetties, I find targeting eels and bass in the rocks of the jetty itself somewhat productive, but you can catch fish on the outside as well.

Most jetties have a rough water or "seaward" side, and a calmer or "bay" side. Depending on the species you would like to target and bait presence, either side may be productive.

For instance on the far end of a jetty, you can fish the seaward side for things like mackerel and bonito, and closer to the surf spotfin croaker and barred surf perch. On the bay side anything from opaleye to wrasse to greenlings and cabezon are possible.

Most people like extra small hooks and pieces of shrimp, but honestly artificals work well enough, but you will be actively working them with the current and towards the rocks, with most action being closer to the rocks. But if you're targeting silver types, then more horizontal presentations work well.

Put your time in and keep good notes, and you'll have it all patterned out.