White seabass are consider excellent table fare. The best method for catching White seabass is trolling using a spoon lure or artificial jig. They’re often found along shorelines with sandy bottoms or in kelp beds.
Habitat: Bay, Ocean
How to identify White Seabass
White seabass have an elongated, yet somewhat compressed body. Their head is pointed but also slightly compressed. They have a distinctive ridge present in the middle of their abdomen with a dark marking located toward the bottom of the pectoral fin. Along the roof of its large mouth is a row of small teeth. The lower jaw of the White seabass juts outward just slightly. Adult seabass have dark blue-gray bodies with gold tinging that transition to a silver abdomen. At about 18 inches long, juveniles usually have dark vertical bars along the flank that fade as they grow older. Adults average 10-25 pounds but can weigh up to 100 pounds.
Where to catch White Seabass
White seabass are found in the east-southeast waters of the Pacific from Alaska (Juneau) down to Mexico (Magdalena Bay.) They typically prefer sandy bottoms along the shoreline as well as kelp beds, but are also known to swim in both shallow surfs and the deep. From May to September, anglers can find these fish along the coasts of California (including Catalina/San Clemente Islands.)
The following are habitats where you can catch White Seabass:
- Baitfish Schools
- Estuaries
- Coastal Waters
- Deep Shore Water
- Jetties and Breakers
- Kelp Forests and Beds
- Rocky Sea Floor
How to catch White Seabass
White seabass are primarily caught in relatively shallow water drift fishing or still fishing. However, fast-trolling using a spoon lure, artificial squid or bone jig is also an effective method for catching White seabass. Bottom fishing at night using natural baits is another great way to catch White seabass.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching White Seabass:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch White Seabass
Live squid is one of the best bait for catching White seabass, but they will also take medium-size sardines or large anchovies. During certain times of the year, live mackerel is the most effective bait for catching White seabass. Small squid, fish and other crustaceans also work as bait for White seabass.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch White Seabass:
