San Diego & SoCal Fishing Forums

I fished the surf south of Crystal Pier this morning about 9-10:15 on incoming tide. The pier is open and plenty of lines were in the water. Water is noticeably warmer than Friday when I was out surfing, but still not over 70. Huge beds of surf crabs everywhere, but you’d be wise to be picky and hunt out the soft shells with roe because that’s all the fish want. Grass is around but not a problem. Slow bite, landed 4 BSP in the 6-7 inch range, slightly larger models than l last snagged.

In the last couple weeks I’ve seen several fishermen north of Diamond St in the La Jolla SMR, one of whom I saw keep a 5-6 inch surf perch. Does any agency do enforcement in the area? I always fish south of Diamond, and usually south of the pier, and I’ve not been asked for my license in the past 2 summers.

Flag down a life guard beach patrol vehicle or go to a LG station if you're close to one to report it. They will contact the CDF&W and also go to and direct the individuals to leave the restricted area. I've seen them do it.

4 fish in an hour and a half isn't bad... Sounds fun...
To bad about the poachers... Maybe do like PK said?...
Butch

Not that I’m for keeping smaller fish but isn’t there no size limit for the barred surf perch?

hiepatitis wrote: Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:55 am Not that I’m for keeping smaller fish but isn’t there no size limit for the barred surf perch?

Nope…
Butch

hiepatitis wrote: Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:55 am Not that I’m for keeping smaller fish but isn’t there no size limit for the barred surf perch?

That was my first thought as well, but I think it's more due to fishing in the marine reserve than the size of the fish.

https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Ma ... h-La-Jolla

Yes, concern was about fishing in the reserve not size, although I have no idea what I’d do with a 5 inch perch. I’ll look for a lifeguard next time. Thanks for the suggestion.