Species guide
How to catch Californian anchovy
Engraulis mordax
The Californian anchovy is a small, elongated saltwater fish found mainly along the Pacific coast of North America. It forms large schools near shore and can be found from the surface down to over 200 meters deep. This species feeds selectively on plankton and organic matter and often moves closer to the surface at night.
Where they live
Found in coastal Pacific waters of North America, usually within 30 km offshore but can range farther out and down to about 219 meters deep. Forms tight schools and enters bays and inlets seasonally.
Typical size
Up to about 25 cm
What they eat
- plankton
- organic matter
- small diatoms
Best baits
- small pieces of fish
- plankton-based bait
- crumbled shrimp
Best lures
- small spoons
- tiny jigs
- micro soft plastics
How to fish for them
- casting small lures near surface
- light tackle fishing
- using fine mesh nets
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