Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch blue catfish.
Corsario Ocean Adventures
Avalon, California
Book a charter for fishing trips or leisure cruises with Corsario Charters located in Avalon, California on Catalina Island. Join the top sports fishing boat on Catalina Island as you enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the California coast.
Ranch Hunt Club Company : Hunting Clubs And Ranches With Fishing
Geyserville, California
We list over 200 Oregon and California Hunting Ranches, Hunting Clubs, Public Lands for Boar, Deer, Ducks, Turkey, pheasant, dove, quail and pigs. Hunting land property for elk, deer, pigs, upland birds and waterfowl. Private access to free hunting and fishing maps to the best Oregon an California hunting places.
Likemind Fishing Charters
San Diego, California
Self-guided boat rentals and custom inshore & offshore private bareboat charters
Mustang Sportfishing
San Diego, California
Limitless Sportfishing
San Diego, California
Seasons Sportfishing
San Diego, California
Home to some of the best salt water fishing in the world.
Fish Withthe Finest
Oxnard, California
Experience the best team building activities in Ventura County with our deep sea fishing charters. Book now!
Sea Shift Sportfishing
Bodega Bay, California
Bodega Bay Sportfishing Center - Sea Shift , Fort Bragg and SF. Specializing in Salmon, Halibut, Crab, Tuna Rockfish and Lingcod. Fishing Reports Available
Pole Dancin Sportfishing
Bodega Bay, California
Book your next fishing charter aboard a 27’ North River with high quality fishing gear, specializing in salmon, rock fish, lingcod and crab off the Bodega Bay coast
Reel Time Charters
Sausalito, California
Memorial At Sea | United States | Sanfranciscoashscattering.com
Pacific Fresh
Santa Cruz, California
PacificFresh specializes in wild troll-caught pacific fresh seafood including King Salmon, California Halibut, Lingcod and Pacific Snapper.
Tanker City Sportfishing
Half Moon Bay, California
Experience a unique and thrilling day on the water when take a trip with all-in-one private fishing charter.
Best Time to Catch Blue Catfish
Blue Catfish can be caught year-round in Santa Monica. Right now in March, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Blue Catfish
While Santa Monica itself is known for its coastal waters, pursuing Blue Catfish requires heading inland to the freshwater systems of Southern California. Consider targeting the larger reservoirs and river systems further east, where these whiskered giants thrive. The best time to target Blue Catfish is during the warmer months, from late spring through fall. They are more active in warmer water and readily take bait. Lake Perris and Lake Skinner, though a drive from Santa Monica, are known to hold good populations. Sticking to the deeper sections of the lake near creek channels is a good starting point. For bait, try cut bait like mackerel or sardines, or even live bluegill if regulations allow. Be prepared for a fight; Blue Cats are powerful fish. Local tip: Night fishing can be particularly productive. Be sure to check local regulations regarding fishing licenses and any specific restrictions on these lakes.
Plan a Trip to Santa Monica
See what's biting in Santa Monica, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Blue Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Blue Catfish in Santa Monica.
Blue Catfish Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Check specific water body regulations for closures or special rules.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I catch blue catfish near Santa Monica?
Blue catfish are freshwater fish, so you'll need to head inland away from Santa Monica to find them. Look for lakes and reservoirs that stock catfish.
What kind of bait works well for blue catfish in California?
Blue catfish are known to be opportunistic feeders. Popular bait choices include cut bait (like shad or mackerel), chicken liver, and nightcrawlers.
What are the regulations for keeping blue catfish in California?
There are no size or bag limits for blue catfish in California, but you will need a valid freshwater fishing license.
Is there a specific season for blue catfish fishing in California?
No, you can fish for blue catfish year-round in California.
More Blue Catfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Santa Monica
Ready to Catch Blue Catfish in Santa Monica?
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