Species guide
How to catch Pacific sardine
Sardinops sagax
The Pacific sardine is a small, schooling fish found in large numbers along the Pacific coast. It migrates seasonally and feeds primarily on plankton. This species is important commercially but is not typically targeted as a game fish.
Where they live
Pacific sardines inhabit saltwater environments from shallow waters down to 200 meters. They form massive schools along the Pacific coast of North America, migrating north in summer and south in winter between California and British Columbia.
Typical size
Up to about 40 cm
What they eat
- zooplankton
- phytoplankton
Best baits
- small pieces of fish
- plankton-based bait
Best lures
- small shiny spoons
- tiny jigs
How to fish for them
- bait fishing
- light trolling
- cast netting
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