There are a million reasons to visit California.
Known as the land of opportunity, sunshine, and entertainment, it’s no wonder so many
travelers come here every year to get a taste of the California dream.
Its 800 miles of Pacific coastline, over 200 major lakes, and 3 major rivers, also put
it firmly at the top of many anglers' bucket lists.
That’s right, fishing in California is incredible.
The state is the third-largest in the US, and the angling opportunities here are just
as vast and diverse.
From Chinook Salmon runs in Northern California
to big game fishing off of Southern California’s Pacific coast, today we’re covering what
you need to know to get your hands on some of the incredible specimens in this video.
There’s a lot to get through, but before we dive in make sure you’re hitting the
like and subscribe buttons to stay up to date on all the latest fishing videos!
We’ll start our fishing journey through California at the Northern end of the state.
Stretching from the Oregon Stateline, through the Bay Area, and down to San Luis Obispo
County, the cooler climate makes for a vastly different fishing experience than you might
get in Southern California.
It’s so different, in fact, that you might think you were fishing in two entirely different states!
There are a few signature fish that make up NorCal’s fishing scene, but none is more
popular than Chinook Salmon.
You can fish for them in both saltwater and freshwater, along with 5 other varieties of
Pacific Salmon.
These hard-fighting, and not to mention delicious fish, spawn in Northern California’s rivers,
including the Sacramento and Klamath, before moving into the Pacific’s open waters.
The most famous runs are in the spring and in the fall, so if you’re planning a trip
keep dates between May and July and August and September in mind.
Trailing closely behind Chinook Salmon is another game fishing favorite – Striped Bass.
These fish are especially popular in the San Francisco Bay during the winter months.
You can hook ‘em while fishing the surf, from the pier, or from a charter boat.
And then there’s Sturgeon.
These prehistoric fish have been around for almost 200 million years and have been considered
a prized catch for centuries.
White and Green Sturgeon are native to Northern California and the best time to try your luck
against them is in the winter months – particularly January and February.
Just remember, Sturgeon are some of the most endangered fish species out there, and California
has tight fishing regulations when it comes to their harvesting.
That’s already a whole lot of incredible action, but it doesn’t end there.
Northern California is also home to unique species including Leopard Sharks, California
Halibut, Lingcod, White Seabass, and Crab, and standout locations
to visit include the San Francisco Bay, Sacramento River, Bodega Bay, and Lake Tahoe.
But if you’re after incredibly big versions of some of NorCal’s fish and more, you might
want to start turning your sights South…
For reasons still unexplained, the fish in Southern California reach monster sizes.
Maybe it’s the warm climate, Pacific currents, pristine inland lakes, or maybe the fish are
just California dreaming themselves.
Nevertheless, if you’re after the catch of a lifetime you’re in the right place.
The action extends all the way down to the border with Mexico, and your trip may even
take you into Mexican waters, specifically around Coronado Island.
So long as you bring your passport, you can count on fishing in two countries on a single trip.
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, though, and turn our attention to SoCal’s inshore
waters first.
There’s plenty of fun to be had for both beginners and seasoned pros alike.
Both Horseshoe Kelp and the Huntington Flats are go-to destinations for anglers looking
to hook into Calico and Sand Bass.
These fish are excellent targets for kids and beginners just starting out.
You’ll also find California Halibut lurking nearby.
They’re even easier to catch, making them a great choice for anglers looking for an
easy dinner.
Head out of the Long Beach area and you may just get your hands on one of California’s
most enigmatic fish – White Seabass.
Some California anglers will spend a lifetime chasing these elusive fish, and that just
makes it all the more fun.
If you’re looking for even bigger fish, you’re in luck.
Southern California’s deep offshore waters are legendary.
Head out from any marina in the LA area and set out towards Catalina and San Clemente islands.
This is where you’re going to encounter California’s signature fish – Yellowtail Amberjack.
They’re eager to bite anytime between April and mid-October and incredibly fun to catch.
Get ready for a bicep workout, but know you’ll be rewarded with a tasty meal afterward.
And then there are the big game fish.
San Diego’s fishing scene is considered one of the greatest of all time, and considering
it’s home to the largest fleet of sport fishing vessels in the world, that should
come as no surprise.
There are plenty of fishing types to try out here but the deep sea fishing is fantastic.
Head out on a legendary long-range trip or a full-day adventure and you can set your
sights on massive Yellow and Bluefin Tuna, Blue and Striped Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and Sharks.
You can also bottom fish for over 60 varieties of delicious California Rockfish during the
open season, hunt for Lingcod in the rock piles along the coastline, or fly fish in
the San Diego Bay for Calico Bass.
It’s truly a destination you don’t want to miss.
With great fishing comes great responsibility and there are a few rules and regulations
you should always keep in mind when casting a line in California.
The first is making sure you have a fishing license.
Everyone over the age of 16 needs to buy one before heading out, whether you’re fishing
from the shore or a boat, and in both saltwater and freshwater.
Some species, like Sturgeon, also require special Report Cards to target.
You can check out our video on Getting a California Fishing License for detailed information on
which one you need and how to buy one in the description below.
You’ll also need to make sure you’re respecting size and bag limits, as well as open seasons.
If you’re new to the area, or to fishing in general, it’s best to head out with a
local guide.
You’ll still need to buy your own license but they’ll keep you in check with regards
to targeting and harvesting.
Not to mention the fact that nobody knows where the best spots are better than them!
So if you’re ready to claim a piece of the action for yourself – you’re in the right place!
FishingBooker.com helps you find the charter that’s right for you and your family.
With hundreds of local guides, verified reviews, and hassle-free online bookings, you’ll
save time and money, and experience an exciting day on the water.
So be sure to smash that like button and hit subscribe for more updates on the hottest
fishing spots across the country.
And of course, head over to FishingBooker.com to start planning your California fishing adventure today!