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 San Diego. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Calico Bass
San Diego's coastline is prime habitat for calico bass, also known as kelp bass. These aggressive fish are abundant in the kelp forests and rocky reefs that line the shore. Year-round fishing is possible, but the warmer months generally offer the best action. Targeting calico bass around structure is key, using techniques like fishing swimbaits, crankbaits, or drop-shot rigs tight to the kelp. One effective strategy is to fish during periods of low light, such as early morning or late afternoon. Shelter Island and Mission Bay offer access to productive fishing grounds, either by boat or kayak. Shore anglers can also find success fishing from rocky points and jetties. Calico bass are relatively slow-growing, so practicing catch and release helps ensure the sustainability of the 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 is the legal size for Calico Bass in San Diego?
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 near San Diego?
The daily bag limit for Calico Bass in California is 5 fish.
Are there any seasonal closures for Calico Bass fishing in San Diego?
No, Calico Bass fishing is open year-round in California.
Besides a fishing license, do I need anything else to fish for Calico Bass in San Diego?
If you are fishing south of Point Arguello, you will need an Ocean Enhancement Validation.
More Calico Bass Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in San Diego
Ready to Catch Calico Bass in San Diego?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.