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 Santa Barbara. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Calico Bass
For Calico Bass, Santa Barbara's coastline provides a wealth of opportunity. These structure-oriented fish thrive in the kelp forests and rocky reefs that dot the shoreline. Focus your efforts around areas with dense kelp growth, as this provides both cover and ambush points for Calico Bass. Early morning and late afternoon are often the most productive times. A variety of lures can be effective, including swimbaits, crankbaits, and topwater lures. Experiment with different presentations to see what the fish are responding to on a given day. A local tip: launch from Goleta Beach and head west towards Campus Point, where you'll find excellent kelp beds. Also, pay attention to the tides, as Calico Bass often become more active during periods of strong tidal flow. Calico Bass in Santa Barbara are known for their aggressive strikes and provide exciting inshore fishing.
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 Santa Barbara?
Calico Bass in Santa Barbara respond well to various lures and live bait. Popular choices include swimbaits, crankbaits, and live anchovies or sardines.
What is the minimum size Calico Bass I can keep in California?
The minimum size limit for Calico Bass in California is 14 inches in total length.
What's the daily bag limit for Calico Bass near Santa Barbara?
You can keep up to 5 Calico Bass per day in the Santa Barbara area.
Do I need a special license to fish for Calico Bass south of Point Arguello?
Yes, when fishing for Calico Bass south of Point Arguello, you will need a valid California sport fishing license and an Ocean Enhancement Validation.
More Calico Bass Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Santa Barbara
Ready to Catch Calico Bass in Santa Barbara?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.




