Merry Christmas! Now it's time to take that new rod and reel down to the beach for some wintertime surfcasting.

Steelhead season has been open in our area since December 1. And, we've had plenty of rain that has filled our local rivers and streams with a good flow. With the break in between storms, even the San Lorenzo has cleared up nicely, while the creeks have been clear for a week or so.

But, we have very few reports of steelhead caught locally. Part of the explanation is that steelheaders are a notoriously tight-lipped bunch. Conversely, there are some those who cannot help but brag when they catch the elusive ocean-going trout, and we have heard of only a few caught here and there so far this year. The primary reason for slow steelheading may be that it is just too early. Despite the December rains, steelhead fishing in the Monterey Bay area historically picks up in January and February. These fish have their own schedule. Hopefully we will see some significant runs in the New Year.

For now the best alternative of guaranteed action remains in the salt. Rockfish and lingcod are still legal to catch till the end of the year, weather permitting. Powerful swells have the tendency to put rockfish off the bite, but lings are more accommodating. Anglers who jig up live bait will have the best results ling cod fishing. Any rocky or reef area from 40 to 120 feet of water can produce a hefty lingcod. Hurry up, though. December 31st marks the close of our 2014 season.

Those same waves inhibiting rockfish are creating perfect conditions for surfperch. The beautiful long beaches that ring Monterey Bay are a percher's paradise right now. Pounding surf has created good structure all along the shoreline. Look for deep holes behind the shorebreak, rip currents and deeper troughs that hold feeding perch.

Many anglers prefer to use lighter gear for perch these days, throwing small grubs or plastic worms beneath a sliding sinker. Bait works well and is usually dispatched using a pyramid sinker to dig into the sand with a dropper loop and short leader. Chunks of shrimp or squid will get perch to bite as well as the classic sandcrab presentations.

No matter what you use, where you go or what you are fishing for, please stay safe. Winter surf can be deceptive with sneaker sets that can easily knock you off your feet. Rockhopping along the streambeds or climbing the steep trails down to the river provide plenty of opportunity for mishap. Taking it slow and steady and keeping safety a priority will keep you fishing.

Send your photos, comments or questions to scruzfishing@yahoo.com