Bat Ray
Myliobatis californica
Bat rays cruise sandy and muddy bay bottom crushing clams and crabs with flat plates instead of teeth, and often hold in the same channels leopard sharks use. A sliding weight lets one pick up bait and move off before feeling resistance, important given how hard they pull once hooked.
Typical size: 24-60in · Peak season: summer. Always check current CDFW regulations for size and bag limits before keeping fish.
Fish-Finder Rig
beginnersurf & pier & boat & river & lake
The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.
- Main line15-20 lb monofilament
- Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
- Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
- Hooks4/0 - 7/0 circle hook
- WeightSliding sinker, 3-6oz for bay and surf current
- Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
- BaitSquid, cut mackerel, or shrimp fished flat on bottom