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 Willows. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
If you're heading to Willows, California, with channel catfish on your mind, you're in for some classic Central Valley catfishing. The Sacramento River and its associated sloughs and canals offer the best opportunities. Think about targeting areas with submerged structure like fallen trees or riprap along the banks. Spring and early summer, after the catfish have spawned, are prime times. The warmer water gets them actively feeding. Late evening into the night is often the most productive period. A key tip for Willows is to pay attention to water levels in the Sacramento River. High water can spread the fish out, while lower, more stable flows concentrate them in deeper holes and near cover. Use a sliding sinker rig with some classic catfish bait like chicken liver, nightcrawlers, or prepared stinkbaits. Be prepared for some decent-sized fish; the Sacramento River system is known for producing some hefty channel cats.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Willows.
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 around Willows?
Popular bait choices include stink baits, nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and cut bait. Catfish are opportunistic feeders and respond well to strong scents.
Are there any limits on the size or number of channel catfish I can keep in California?
No, there are no bag or size limits for channel catfish in California.
Do I need a special license to fish for channel catfish in Willows, CA?
No, a standard California Sport Fishing License is all you need.
When is the best time of year to fish for channel catfish near Willows?
The warmer months, especially late spring and summer, are generally the best times to target channel catfish as they are more active in warmer water.
Are there any good spots to catch channel catfish near Willows?
Look for areas with submerged structure, deep holes, and slow-moving water. The Sacramento River and its tributaries are known to hold catfish.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Willows
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Willows?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.