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 San Rafael. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Lingcod
If you're after Lingcod near San Rafael, you'll want to focus on the rocky reefs and structures of the San Francisco Bay and the adjacent Pacific Ocean. These voracious predators thrive in these environments. The best time to target them is generally spring and early summer, before the water warms up too much. Jigging with large swimbaits or using live bait near the bottom is a proven tactic. A local tip: try fishing near the entrance to the Bay, around the Golden Gate Bridge, where strong currents create prime feeding conditions. Be aware of the often-challenging conditions – strong tides, heavy boat traffic, and unpredictable weather. Also, pay attention to depth finders for submerged structure. Lingcod are ambush predators and prefer to lie in wait near rocks or wrecks. Always check regulations for size limits and seasonal closures, as these can vary.
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
What's the best bait to use for Lingcod in San Rafael?
Lingcod are aggressive predators. Anglers in the San Rafael area often have success using swimbaits, jigs, and live bait like anchovies or sardines.
What is the legal size for Lingcod in California?
You can only keep Lingcod that are a minimum of 22 inches in total length.
What's the daily bag limit for Lingcod in California?
The daily bag limit for Lingcod is 2 fish per person.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Lingcod in San Rafael?
Yes, a valid California sport fishing license is required to fish for Lingcod in San Rafael.
More Lingcod Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in San Rafael
Ready to Catch Lingcod in San Rafael?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.