Name:

Surf Perch (Sargo)

Anisotremus davidsonii

Seasonal Availability:

Open 8/1/2023-4/30/2024

For species-specific updates, please visit this website

Commercial Length or Size Requirements:

For species not believed to have a commercial size requirement, kindly refer to the CDFW or agency of jurisdiction website for further details.

Flavor Profile

Surf Perch offers a delightful flavor profile that captures the essence of the ocean. Its flesh is tender and subtly sweet, with a mild brininess that evokes the sea breeze. The fish's delicate flavor is enhanced by a hint of nuttiness, reminiscent of toasted almonds, adding a pleasant depth to each bite.

Our favorite ways to cook

Awaken your senses through Pan-fried Surf Perch, a symphony of textures. Embellish the cleaned perch fillets with a whisper of seasoned flour. On a canvas of butter and olive oil, conduct a gentle pan-fried serenade over medium heat, each fillet caressed for 2-3 minutes per side. Immerse in the journey, indulging in the harmonious blend of crispy elegance and tender melody. Welcome their presence solo or in the midst of fish taco reverie, each bite accompanied by a spritz of zesty lime.

Things you probably didn't know about Surf Perch (Sargo)

Surf perch, commonly found in the coastal waters of North America, have a fascinating reproductive strategy. Males build nests in the sand to attract females, and once the eggs are laid, the male guards and fans them with his fins to ensure their survival. These fish also have specialized teeth called pharyngeal jaws, which allow them to crush the shells of small crustaceans and mollusks that make up a significant part of their diet.