Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch channel 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 Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Costa Mesa. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
For channel catfish near Costa Mesa, focus on the Santa Ana River and some of the larger local lakes. While the river can be unpredictable, it holds catfish, especially in deeper holes and near structure like fallen trees or bridge pilings. Irvine Lake is another option, known for stocking catfish. Summer evenings and nights are the prime times to target catfish, as they become more active in the cooler hours. Access to the Santa Ana River is available at several parks and trails, but be mindful of water levels and potential hazards. Irvine Lake requires an entry fee and may have specific hours. Local tip: Use smelly baits like chicken liver, nightcrawlers, or commercially prepared catfish attractants. A slip-sinker rig is effective for presenting bait on the bottom. The catfish in the Santa Ana River tend to be smaller, but Irvine Lake offers the chance for larger stocked fish.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Costa Mesa.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Sport Fishing License
Check specific regulations for the water body you intend to fish, as some locations may have specific limits.
⚠️ 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 channel catfish in Costa Mesa?
Channel catfish in Costa Mesa respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what's working best on a given day.
Are there any restrictions on keeping channel catfish I catch in Costa Mesa?
No, there are no size or bag limits for channel catfish in California. You can keep what you catch year-round.
Do I need a fishing license to target channel catfish in Costa Mesa?
Yes, you need a valid California sport fishing license to fish for channel catfish in Costa Mesa. Make sure to have it with you while fishing.
When is the ideal time to fish for channel catfish around Costa Mesa?
While you can catch channel catfish year-round, the warmer months, particularly spring and summer, tend to be the most productive. They are often more active during these times.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Costa Mesa
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Costa Mesa?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.