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 Lake Isabella. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Lake Isabella offers solid Catfish opportunities, especially for channel cats. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from late spring through summer. Fish the deeper, murky areas of the lake with stinkbaits, cut bait, or nightcrawlers. Focus on areas near the old river channel or around submerged structure. Night fishing is particularly effective. A local tip: use a Carolina rig to keep your bait on the bottom, where the catfish are feeding. Also, be prepared for some strong runs, as Isabella catfish can put up a good fight. The Auxiliary Dam area is known for holding good numbers of catfish. Remember to check California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for size and bag limits.
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 to use for catfish in Lake Isabella?
Popular catfish baits in Lake Isabella include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and prepared catfish dough baits. Using a strong-smelling bait is key to attracting catfish in this lake.
Are there any restrictions on keeping catfish I catch in Lake Isabella?
No, in California, there are no bag or size limits for catfish in Lake Isabella. You can keep what you catch.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for catfish in Lake Isabella?
Yes, you need a valid California sport fishing license to fish for catfish, or any other species, in Lake Isabella.
Can I fish for catfish year-round in Lake Isabella?
Yes, the catfish season is open year-round in Lake Isabella, giving you ample opportunity to catch them whenever you're able to get out on the water.
More Catfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Lake Isabella
Ready to Catch Catfish in Lake Isabella?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.