What's Biting at Santa Monica Pier

What's biting at Santa Monica Pier for Rookies? You will hook plenty of small panfish there—think Shiner Perch, Queenfish, Mackerel, and more. Just drop a sabiki rig tipped with shrimp, and you're in for a good time. For Mid-tier, lobster is the prize here. But heads up, catching them is strictly seasonal. Hit the water at night for a 1–2 hour sweet spot right around high tide—that is your prime window. Want a real challenge? Target sharks. Rig up some fresh, oily bait like cut mackerel or sardines. They usually hunt for prey near the end of the pier. If one hits your line, brace yourself for a monster brawl.