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 Oceanside. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Calico Bass
Calico bass fishing around Oceanside offers year-round opportunities, but spring and fall are arguably the best times to target these ambush predators. Focus your efforts on the extensive kelp forests that line the coast; these are their primary habitat. Look for areas with rocky structure within the kelp, as this provides additional cover. A variety of techniques can be effective, including fishing swimbaits, crankbaits, and jerkbaits around the edges of the kelp. A local tip: try throwing a weedless swimbait right into the thickest part of the kelp and slowly retrieving it; the biggest calicos often hold tight to cover. Pay attention to water clarity and adjust your lure colors accordingly. Also, be aware of the local regulations regarding size and bag limits, which are designed to protect the calico bass population.
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 Oceanside?
Calico Bass in Oceanside respond well to a variety of lures and live bait. Popular choices include swimbaits, crankbaits, and jerkbaits that mimic small fish. Live bait like anchovies or sardines can also be very effective.
Are there any size restrictions for Calico Bass I catch in Oceanside?
Yes, in California, you can only keep Calico Bass that are at least 14 inches in total length. Make sure to measure your catch carefully before keeping it.
What's the daily bag limit for Calico Bass in California?
The current daily bag limit for Calico Bass is 5 fish per person. Be sure to check the latest regulations for any changes.
Do I need a special license to fish for Calico Bass in Oceanside?
Yes, because Oceanside is south of Point Arguello, you'll need an Ocean Enhancement Validation in addition to your standard California sport fishing license.
More Calico Bass Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Oceanside
Ready to Catch Calico Bass in Oceanside?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.