Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch 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 Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Canyon Dam. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Targeting catfish near Canyon Dam? You're in for a potentially rewarding experience, especially if you understand the seasonal movements of their forage. Canyon Dam creates a unique environment in the Guadalupe River system, and catfish congregate in predictable areas depending on the time of year. Spring and early summer, as the water warms, are prime times to find them staging near spawning areas in the shallower coves and inlets. Use cut bait like shad or sunfish, and don't be afraid to experiment with depth – the thermocline can play a big role in where they're holding. As the water heats up in the summer, focus on deeper holes and channel edges near the old river channel. A slip sinker rig with a longer leader will help you present your bait right on the bottom. Access is good from the shore near the dam itself, but a boat will open up a lot more fishing area. Be mindful of current fluctuations, especially after heavy rains, as this can significantly impact catfish activity.
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Sport Fishing License
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching catfish in Canyon Dam?
Catfish in Canyon Dam are known to bite on a variety of baits, including nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stinkbaits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
Are there any limits on catfish I can keep in California?
There are no bag or size limits for catfish in California. You can keep as many catfish as you catch, regardless of their size.
Is it legal to fish for catfish all year in Canyon Dam?
Yes, catfish can be fished for year-round in Canyon Dam and throughout California. Make sure you have a valid sport fishing license.
Where are the best spots to target catfish near Canyon Dam?
Look for catfish near the bottom of the lake, especially around submerged structures, channels, and deeper holes. Fishing at night is often productive.
More Catfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Canyon Dam
Ready to Catch Catfish in Canyon Dam?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.