"Abbondanza!" That's what Chris Arcoleo from Chris' Sportfishing in Monterey says about fishing the Monterey Bay right now. "We had no problem getting 84 Dungeness crab (limits) for our cutomers this week, and then topped it off with about 50 sand dabs each." Arcaleo will continue the crab and 'dab trips through the next couple months, weather permitting.

Conditions and catch rates are just about the same here in Santa Cruz. Dungeness reports indicate the crab are still numerous along the North Coast waters and near the canyon edges. Though the numbers of crab per pot may be dropping slightly, limits are still the rule. And, most of the crab remain very firm, with few shorts and the ocasional giant brought up in the crab pots.

For local trips, Stagnaro's Sportfishing is running affordable trips for sandabs all winter, and six-pack boats from Reel Sportfishing and Captain Jimmy Sportfishing are going for crab and sanddab combo trips. Capitola and Santa Cruz Boat Rentals are also available all season, for those who prefer to steer their own ship while engaged in piscatorial pursuits.

Perch fishing slowed near Santa Cruz this week, likely due to the lack of surf. Surfcasters did well further down the coast, near Moss Landing and on towards Monterey. A few beach anglers ran into striped bass while fishing near the Pajaro and Salinas rivermouths. Most stripers caught were in the 18-22-inch range, what we call "schoolies." It's worth it to include a couple Kastmasters or Krokodiles in your tackle kit while perch fishing, and maybe use a heavier leader, just in case.

Speaking of perch fishing, the 9th Annual Sand Crab Classic is scheduled for Saturday, March 9 2013 at Portuguese Hall in Santa Cruz. This yearly surfperch derby provides tons of fun for hundreds of Bay Area surfcasters and families, with a BBQ Banquet, raffles, silent auctions, and coveted perch trophies for winners in a variety of categories. All proceeds from the event go directly towards supporting the Monterey Bay Salmon and Trout Project. Further information and sign-ups are available at: www.theletsgofishingradioshow.com.

A significant swell is forecast for the coming weekend, which could improve a surfcaster's chance at big hungry perch. Remember to use caution when the waves are big. Watch for sneaker sets and be aware of tidal flows to stay safe while having fun.

Above Photo: Surfcasters compete at Rio Del Mar during the 2010 Sand Crab Classic Perch Derby. This year's tourney is scheduled for March 9, at the Portuguese Hall.