The Secret to Catching More CA Surfperch: Why Speed is Everything
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
We are hitting the beach to solve one of the biggest frustrations in surf fishing: the "picky" perch bite.
I’m joined by my buddy Frank Vasquez, and together we’re going to show you exactly how to turn those annoying nibbles into solid hooksets. I’ve spent years dialing in my methods, and today I’m sharing the one technique that changed everything for me.
I’m moving fast, catching fish, and having all kinds of fun. Get ready. I can't wait to share it all with you. Stay tuned, we're hitting the sand together here on VINCE GOES FISHING.
Beating the Skunk Streak
Frank and I both arrived at the beach after experiencing a bit of a dry spell. I’d been skunked on my last six or seven outings—it happens to everyone! If you’re on a skunk streak, don’t let it eat you up too much. You just have to keep fishing until you find them.
Today, we also want to give a huge shout-out to Been There Caught That in Santa Maria, California. The shop is under new ownership by Fernando and Amy, and they’ve completely revamped the place. If you’re in the area, go show them some love!
The Problem with a Slow Retrieve
Back in 2021, I used to fish for perch the same way I fished for halibut—casting out a Carolina rig and slowly dragging it across the bottom. I would get 30, maybe 100 bites a day, but I’d hardly land any fish. My tails were getting bitten off, and my line was constantly tangled.
I realized that a slow retrieve is actually the enemy of perch fishing. When the bait sits still or moves slowly, those perch use their tiny, piranha-like front teeth to "pick-pick-pick" at the tail. They tear your bait apart without ever touching the hook.
The Solution: The Medium-Fast Retrieve
The secret tip I’m excited to share is simple: use a medium-fast retrieve speed. When you keep that bait moving, several great things happen:
Instant Hooksets: Because the bait is already on the move, the fish has to inhale the entire thing with its "bucket mouth" to keep it from escaping. As soon as they suck it up, they’re hooked.
No More Torn Tails: If the bait is moving quickly, the perch don't have time to nibble on the tail. It’s "all or nothing" for them.
Straight Leaders: A faster pace keeps your leader straight behind the weight, ensuring you stay connected to the bait and feel every vibration.
“Keep it moving, guys. I’m telling you, it’s a really good trick. You’ll feel the weight of the fish as soon as they pick it up, and you can react immediately.”
Testing the Gear
To maintain this pace, I really rely on a high-speed reel. I’m using the Shimano Vanford C5000XG. It’s incredibly fast, pulling in about 40 inches of line per crank, which makes it effortless to keep that "medium-fast" pace.
I’m also running the Battlestar 28# Alien Braid. Frank has been testing it for a few weeks now too, and the verdict is in: no fraying, super smooth, and the highest quality casts we’ve had so far.
Landing the Big One
It didn't take long for the technique to pay off. On my second cast with the "Flip-Flops and Socks" motor oil grub, I felt that heavy weight.
“Oh, there’s a good one! Look at those head shakes. Stay on, baby!”
I backed up onto the shoreline to wash the fish up with a wave. It was a beautiful, thick perch—about 11.5 inches. Because I kept the bait moving, the hook was set deep in the mouth.
We even caught a few males, which you can identify by the little divot or "split" in the anal fin.
Apply this technique on your next trip, get results, and come back and leave a comment. I love the way this gear feels, and I love seeing these results on the sand!
Gear Used:
Lure: 2-inch Perch Grubs (Flip-Flops and Socks - Fat Motor Oil)
Gamakatsu Rebarb Light Wire #2 Hook (Super glued!)
Rod: Okuma SST 10-foot 6-inch Medium
Reel: Shimano Vanford C5000XG
Line: Battlestar 28lb Alien Braid (Grey)
