Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch lingcod.
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
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
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
Anchor Charter Boats
Whale Watching and Fishing for Rockfish, Lingcod, Salmon and Tuna in Fort Bragg, CA with the Kraken and Ambush with Anchor Charter Boats
Happy Hooker Sport Fishing
9-18-2025 - Pacific Dream - We had a great day today aboard the Pacific Dream. Our 14 man charter landed limits of striped bass, including four crew fish, 2/3 limits of quality rockfish, and 10 nice Lingcod For more information or reservations, please give us a...
Pacific Pearl Charters
The premier fishing, tours and excursions charter company in the San Francisco Bay. With two fully equipped commercial vessels, we offer Bay and ocean outings for all types of events including; private corporate day/ team-building trips and evening cruises, to narrated history cruises of Richmond, Oakland, San Francisco. Salmon, Lingcod, Halibut, Striped Bass, Shark and Crab.
Best Time to Catch Lingcod
Lingcod can be caught year-round in Monterey. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Lingcod
The Monterey Bay offers exceptional lingcod fishing opportunities, demanding an understanding of the seasonal forage and dynamic water conditions. Spring and early summer see an influx of squid and other baitfish, drawing lingcod into shallower waters. Target rocky reefs and pinnacles in the 60-150 foot range. Natural presentations are key here – live or dead baitfish rigged on a dropper loop or a slow-jigged swim bait can be deadly. The upwelling that Monterey is famous for brings cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface, impacting both temperature and current. Pay close attention to your electronics to locate temperature breaks and bait concentrations. Launching from Monterey or Moss Landing provides access to productive fishing grounds. A local trick is to fish the backside of reefs where the current is less intense. Remember to always check the current regulations as they can change frequently.
How to Catch Lingcod
Lingcod Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Varies by zone; check regulations
Daily Bag Limit
2 per day
Size Limit
22-inch minimum total length
License Required
Sport fishing license
Regulations vary by management area; check specific regulations for the area you intend to fish. Some areas may be closed.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Lingcod season open in Monterey, California?
Lingcod season in Monterey varies by fishing zone, so it's critical to check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations before you go. These regulations can change annually.
What's the daily limit for Lingcod in Monterey?
You can keep up to 2 Lingcod per day in Monterey, California, provided they meet the minimum size requirement. Always verify the current regulations.
What's the minimum size a Lingcod has to be to keep it in Monterey?
In California, Lingcod must be at least 22 inches in total length to be legally kept. Measure carefully from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail.
What kind of license do I need to fish for Lingcod in Monterey?
You'll need a valid California sport fishing license to target Lingcod in Monterey. Make sure your license is current and readily available for inspection.
More Lingcod Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Monterey
Ready to Catch Lingcod in Monterey?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.