Bay Area Surf Fly Fishing Report

Greetings, fellow beach chargers! Here’s your updated surf report for the fall season! Welcome to the chilly mornings where you can’t feel your fingers, making it the perfect time to invest in a quality pair of fingerless gloves. I recommend the Simms Gore-Tex or Filson half-finger gloves, which you can easily order from or find in the shop. Monterey Bay was fantastic for bass this summer; however, most fish have migrated up the coast, starting their journey back into SF Bay and the Sacramento River system.

But, don’t worry, the surf perch are always around and eager to take your fly! If you're still keen on chasing those salty bass, consider heading to the northern beaches outside the Golden Gate, like Ocean Beach. Just remember to exercise extra caution in these areas and always check your conditions.

This time of year, we start seeing the big winter Barred perch that can make you feel like you've hooked a rogue striper. With winter swells on the rise, it's best to use heavier lines like T-11 or T-14. But anything that is sink 6 or greater will do. Make sure to work your fly as slowly as you can while maintaining contact at all times. Pause during the outgoing waves and strip during the flood. The must-have surf gear for this season includes the Loon Ergo comb, Loon Apex HD pliers, and our all-time favorite surf rods, the LCO Golden Gate and Ocean Beach! Don’t forget to check your back casts, be kind and courteous, and always strip to the tip. 

Stay safe out there, and we’ll see you on the beach!

Ocean Beach surf conditions