Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch halibut.
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
Pacific Fresh
Santa Cruz, California
PacificFresh specializes in wild troll-caught pacific fresh seafood including King Salmon, California Halibut, Lingcod and Pacific Snapper.
Prisoner Rock Charters
Prisoner Rock Charters for Trinidad, California Fishing Trips! Halibut, Rockfish, Lingcod, Greenling, Dungeness Crab, & more. Call (541) 749-0145
Full Throttle Sportfishing
Full Throttle Sportfishing is the #1 Fishing Charter service in Humboldt, located in Eureka, California. We catch salmon, rockfish, and halibut.
GATECRASHER FISHING ADVENTURES
Come join www.gatecrasherfishing.com for an epic guided saltwater fishing experience for Salmon, Halibut, Striped Bass, Shark, Sturgeon, Ling Cod, Rock Cod, Crab.
Bill's Sportfishing and Guide Service
San Francisco Bay Charter Fishing and Ocean,Delta, Bay Area Charter Fishing Sacramento and American Rivers Halibut,Salmon,Sturgeon,Steelhead,Striper,
Unforgettable Fishing Adventures
Unforgettable Fishing in the San Francisco Bay and Outside the Golden Gate. Fishing for King Salmon, Halibut, Striped Bass, Dungeness crab, Ling Cod, Rockfish and Sharks. Experience a world class Fishery with views of the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge and located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, California.
Seven Z's Sport and Fish LLC
Experience unforgettable fishing and scenic cruises in Bodega Bay. Our family-owned charter service offers rock cod, halibut, king salmon fishing, and whale watching along the stunning Sonoma and Marin coastline. Join us for an adventure on the water today!
North Bay Fishing Charters
North Bay Fishing Charters specializes in Charter Fishing Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay for Salmon, Bluefin Tuna, Albacore Tuna, Rockfish, Crab, Halibut and more
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Northen California fishing charter, salmon, halibut, rock cod, lingcod, sturgeon, tuna. Specializing in custom fishing charters from half moon bay to the oregon border. Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Come out on the Warrior Poet for full and half day fishing charters on the San Francisco Bay and beyond the Golden Gate, departing from Fisherman's Wharf. Fishing Charters for rock fish, sturgeon, stripers, salmon, shark, Dungeness crab, tuna, ling cod, halibut on the San Francisco Bay and beyond the Golden Gate.
The CodFather Sportfishing
The CodFather offers offshore rock cod trips, salmon trolling, San Francisco bay Halibut, and Striper trips. Along with special occasions such as birthdays, proposals, and private bookings for events such as Fleet Week and the 4th of July. All gear and bait are provided for up to six guests.
Best Time to Catch Halibut
Halibut can be caught year-round in Carlsbad. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Halibut
Targeting California Halibut off Carlsbad offers a unique opportunity to intercept these flatfish as they move inshore. The best time is generally spring through early fall when they follow the warmer water and abundant baitfish into shallow waters. Focus your efforts around sandy bottom areas near structure like artificial reefs or the edges of kelp beds. A slow presentation is key; try drifting live bait like smelt or sardines on a Carolina rig, or slowly bouncing swimbaits along the bottom. Water clarity is crucial here; halibut can be line-shy. A fluorocarbon leader can make a big difference. Access is good from Oceanside Harbor with several launch ramps available, but be aware of the afternoon winds that can pick up quickly.
How to Catch Halibut
Halibut Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per day
Size Limit
22-inch minimum total length
License Required
Sport fishing license
Specific area closures may apply; check current regulations before fishing. Gear restrictions may apply in certain areas.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What size Halibut can I keep when fishing in Carlsbad?
The minimum size for Halibut is 22 inches total length.
What's the daily limit for Halibut in Carlsbad?
You're allowed to keep up to 3 Halibut per day.
Do I need a license to fish for Halibut in Carlsbad?
Yes, a valid California sport fishing license is required.
What are some good spots to catch Halibut near Carlsbad?
Halibut are often caught near sandy bottoms and structure. Try drifting or slow-trolling near the mouth of Agua Hedionda Lagoon or along the coast.
More Halibut Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Carlsbad
Ready to Catch Halibut in Carlsbad?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.