Traditional tackle used by surf fishermen is a long rod for distance casting, sand spikes to hold the rods in position, and heavy 3 to 6 ounce sinkers to keep the bait from sliding in the powerful current. There is also a group of light tackle anglers that fish with artificial rubber tails and some plugs. They are also found cruising the bays close to the sand drop-offs when the tides are moving at their maximum speed. They have always been one of the most sought after surf fishes. Corbina range from Point Conception to the Gulf of California.
Corbina exist in the extreme shallow surf areas of the beach.
Many times, their backs are exposed as they swim in with a wave to chase sand crabs. They have been caught 150 feet deep but are known mainly for their existence in very shallow water. They are also found in the numerous bays along the Southern Cal coast. Corbina are long slim croakers with a chin barbel used for smelling out food buried in the sand, mostly sand crabs and grunion eggs. They are usually gray or bluish on the back and white below.