Dover Sole Fishing in Monterey, CA
Local guides, seasonality, and regulations for dover sole in Monterey.
Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch dover sole.
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 Dover Sole
Peak season: April, May. Also good: January, February, March, June, September, October, December.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Dover Sole
Dover Sole is a highly sought-after flatfish prized for its delicate flavor and firm texture. While not typically targeted as a gamefish in the traditional sense, recreational anglers often encounter them while bottom fishing in coastal waters, making them a welcome addition to any seafood haul. Found along the Pacific Coast from Alaska to California, Dover Sole prefer sandy or muddy bottoms in relatively shallow waters, making them accessible to anglers fishing from boats or even piers.
Dover Sole Fishing in Monterey
If you're looking to target Dover Sole, Monterey Bay offers a unique opportunity. The deep, muddy bottom structure just offshore is prime habitat for these flatfish. Unlike shallower water sole fisheries, you'll be dropping your lines in depths of 200-400 feet, so specialized tackle is a must. The best time to fish for Dover Sole here is during the calmer months of late spring through early fall, when the seas are less likely to be churned up by strong winds. A popular access point is the Monterey Municipal Wharf, where charter boats operate regularly. Alternatively, launching your own boat from the Monterey Breakwater provides easy access to the deeper fishing grounds. Keep in mind that tides can create strong currents, so be prepared to adjust your weight accordingly to keep your bait on the bottom. Locally, Dover Sole are known for their larger average size compared to other areas, so be ready for a potential trophy!
Plan a Trip to Monterey
See what's biting in Monterey, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Dover Sole
Dover Sole Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
20 per day in aggregate with other flatfish species
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
California Ocean Enhancement Validation and Fishing License
Regulations may vary by specific location, so consult current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to catch Dover Sole in Monterey, CA?
The best months for Dover Sole in Monterey are April, May.
What are the Dover Sole fishing regulations in California?
In California, the season is year-round, the daily bag limit is 20 per day in aggregate with other flatfish species, the minimum size is No size limit. Regulations change throughout the year, so confirm current rules with the California wildlife agency before fishing.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Dover Sole in California?
California Ocean Enhancement Validation and Fishing License. On a guided charter, anglers are often covered under the captain's license — confirm with your guide when booking.
More Dover Sole Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Monterey
Ready to Catch Dover Sole in Monterey?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.