Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch calico bass.


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 Calico Bass
Calico Bass can be caught year-round in Carlsbad. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Calico Bass
If you're looking for some exciting inshore action, try targeting Calico Bass around Carlsbad, California. These feisty fish are abundant in the kelp forests and rocky reefs along the coast. The best time to target them is typically during the warmer months, from spring through fall, when they're actively feeding. Focus your efforts around structure, such as kelp beds, jetties, and rocky outcroppings. Weedless swimbaits and crankbaits are popular choices. A local tip: try fishing the rocky areas around the Batiquitos Lagoon inlet. Calico Bass are ambush predators, so work your lures slowly and deliberately. The local Calico population is known for its aggressive strikes, so be ready for a good fight. Remember to practice catch and release to help maintain the health of this popular fishery.
How to Catch Calico Bass
Calico Bass Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
14-inch minimum total length
License Required
Ocean Enhancement Validation is required when fishing south of Point Arguello.
Regulations may vary by location; check current regulations booklet.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for Calico Bass in Carlsbad?
Many anglers find success with live bait such as anchovies or sardines, or with artificial lures like swimbaits and crankbaits. Experiment to see what the Calico Bass are biting on that day.
What is the legal size for Calico Bass in California?
You can only keep Calico Bass that are at least 14 inches in total length.
How many Calico Bass can I keep in a day when fishing near Carlsbad?
The daily bag limit for Calico Bass is 5 fish.
Do I need an Ocean Enhancement Validation to fish for Calico Bass near Carlsbad, CA?
Yes, if you are fishing south of Point Arguello, you need an Ocean Enhancement Validation in addition to your sport fishing license.
More Calico Bass Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Carlsbad
Ready to Catch Calico Bass in Carlsbad?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.




