Spotted Sand Bass
Paralabrax maculatofasciatus
Spotted Sand Bass is a California–Baja Pacific kelp-and-surf-zone bass that lives over sandy bottoms near structure. It’s a popular light-tackle game fish, often taken around jetties, eelgrass edges, bays, and harbors.
Identification points
- Dark oval spots and bars on the sides, especially on a silvery-tan body
- Two dorsal fins with a deeply notched connection typical of basses
- Small mouth with a relatively slender body and a slightly forked tail
Habitat
Shallow coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, especially sandy bottoms adjacent to kelp beds, eelgrass, rocks, jetties, harbors, and surf-zone drop-offs; common in bays and nearshore estuaries.
Bait notes
Good baits include anchovies, sardines, squid strips, ghost shrimp, bloodworms, and small live baitfish or shrimp. Small swimbaits, jerk shads, grubs, and metal jigs also work well.
Behavior
An ambush predator that feeds on small fish, shrimp, crabs, and squid. It often schools by size, moves with tide and current, and hunts most actively near structure during low light or at night.
Caution
Check local California regulations and size/bag limits; no major species-specific toxin issue is typical, but always verify current consumption advisories for your area.
Fishing notes
Fish near sandy edges of rocks, docks, eelgrass, and channel drops with a Carolina rig, drop-shot, or light jighead. Work baits slowly along bottom, and fish moving water during tide changes for best action.