USS Sargo (SSN 583) SARGO THE FISH

The Sargo (Anisotremus Davidsonii) have a resemblance to the Spotfin and sometimes are mistaken for them. Very large individuals are caught at Catalina Island by anglers fishing with squid for White Sea Bass. Some anglers target Sargo for catching, but most are caught by fishermen looking for other surf-type fish. They are popular targets for pier fishermen. RANGE:   Sargo have been found from Santa Cruz in central California to southern Baja California. They were planted in the Salton Sea in 1951 and have done very well there. They are abundant from Santa Monica southward. HABITAT:   Sargo are schooling fish that are found near the bottom from shallow subtidal waters to 196 feet, most often in 40 feet or less. They like to hang around structure such as rocks, kelp, oil platforms, and pier pilings. They are abundant in marinas under the boats near mooring pilings. DESCRIPTION:   Sargos are deep bodied, Perch-shaped fish. They have vertical dark bars on their side near midbody. They are silvery and sometimes brassy colored. They don't get as large as Spotfin but there are reports of 6 pounders being caught. FOOD VALUE:   Sargo flesh is firm, white and light tasting, not fishy tasting. GAME QUALITIES:   They are tremendous fighters. Sargo attack your bait and fight much like a Spotfin. They are caught strictly on bait. When you catch one expect another instantly because of their schooling tactics. TACKLE AND BAIT:   Not many are caught in the surf but they are caught from piers and in bays. Light tackle can be used efficiently. 6 to 9 foot rods with 8 lb to 10 lb test line works well around the base of piers and rocks. Mussels, razor clams, and ghost shrimp are the best baits for Sargo. Fish for Sargo during the fast water tidal flow around bridges, piers and bays. The largest Sargo of all are caught in 10 feet of water or less at Catalina Island during the White Sea Bass bite.