Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch flathead 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 Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish can be caught year-round in Palo Alto. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Flathead Catfish
While Palo Alto isn't the first place that comes to mind for monster catfish, the sloughs and backwaters of the South Bay, accessible from the city, can surprise you with some decent flatheads. Focus your efforts in the warmer months, from late spring through summer, when these predators are most active. The Dumbarton Pier and other shoreline access points along the bay offer opportunities, but a small boat or kayak will significantly increase your chances of finding the deeper holes where flatheads lurk. Live bluegill or large cut baits are your best bet. Be aware of strong tidal currents in the bay; check tide charts before heading out and exercise caution, especially if fishing from a small craft. The flatheads here aren't as abundant or large as in some other California fisheries, so be prepared to put in some time and effort, but the reward of landing one of these whiskered giants in an urban setting is worth it.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Palo Alto.
Flathead Catfish Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Sport fishing license
Review specific water body regulations for exceptions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions on flathead catfish fishing near Palo Alto?
No, there are currently no bag or size limits for flathead catfish in California.
Do I need a license to fish for flathead catfish in Palo Alto?
Yes, you need a valid California sport fishing license to target flathead catfish.
What's the best time of year to target flathead catfish around Palo Alto?
Flathead catfish are most active during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall. They tend to be more sluggish in colder water.
What kind of bait is effective for catching flathead catfish in the Palo Alto area?
Live bait such as bluegill or goldfish are very effective. Cut bait can also work well.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Palo Alto
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Palo Alto?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.