Overview
Santa Cruz Wharf is a large working wharf that offers pier-style fishing with a mix of sandy-bottom and structure fishing around pilings. Pier-fishing guides note good surfperch action near the breakers, while deeper sections and wells around structure can produce a wider variety including rock-associated species depending on season and conditions.
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Rules, Regulations & Safety Notes
If the wharf is a designated public pier, license exemptions may apply; however, all California size/bag/season regulations still apply regardless. Be extra mindful of pedestrians, slippery boards, and sea lions/birds around bait and catches.
Who This Pier Is Best For
Families and visitors who want easy access and variety, plus anglers who like targeting surfperch and experimenting with zones along a large wharf.
Fish Species Commonly Caught
Barred and calico surfperch near the breakers; at night anglers can encounter sharks, skates, and rays. When pelagic schools are present, mackerel can show up; structure areas can also hold rockfish/lingcod in season (check local regulations).
Local Insights
Locals often fish different micro-zonesbreakers for perch, pilings for structure fish, and mid-to-end areas when baitfish schools move in. If sea lions are active, land fish quickly and keep bait secured.
Pier Fishing Tips
For surfperch, fish just past the breakers with a double-leader setup and pile worms/mussels (ghost shrimp can be excellent). Use squid pieces at night for sharks/skates/rays. Keep gear compactthis is a busy wharfand use a net for safer landings.
Best Times to Fish
Winter months are commonly favored for barred surfperch, while calm mornings can be productive year-round. Night fishing can improve chances for sharks/skates/rays. Focus on tide movementbite often improves on incoming or outgoing pushes.
Address
21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Municipality
Santa Cruz
Zip/Post Code
95060.0
Plan Your Fishing Trip
Everything you need for a successful day on the pier — from bait and licenses to nearby stays and fishing charters.
Location
21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
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