Amphistichus rhodoterus
Redtails are the dominant surfperch north of Bodega Bay, schooling tight to sandy beaches and moving into sheltered inshore water before spawning in spring and early summer. The same wash-zone approach that works for barred surfperch further south applies here, just further up the coast.
Two hooks sit above a bottom weight so bait hovers just off the sand. Simple to tie and easy to re-rig on the beach, which makes it the standard starting point for surf and pier fishing.
Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.
The High-Low Rig is the top recommendation for Redtail Surfperch. Two hooks sit above a bottom weight so bait hovers just off the sand. Simple to tie and easy to re-rig on the beach, which makes it the standard starting point for surf and pier fishing.
Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Redtail Surfperch.
Peak season: spring, summer. Typical size runs 10–15 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.
Redtail Surfperch is caught while surf fishing. Redtails are the dominant surfperch north of Bodega Bay, schooling tight to sandy beaches and moving into sheltered inshore water before spawning in spring and early summer. The same wash-zone approach that works for barred surfperch further south applies here, just further up the coast.