Pacific Cod Fishing in Monterey, CA
Local guides, seasonality, and regulations for pacific cod in Monterey.
Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch pacific cod.
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 Pacific Cod
Best months: January, February, March, April, October, November, December.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Pacific Cod
The Pacific Cod, a staple in seafood dishes, also offers exciting opportunities for anglers along the Pacific coast. This bottom-dwelling fish is found in the cold waters of the North Pacific, ranging from Alaska down to California. Known for its mild flavor and flaky white flesh, the Pacific Cod attracts anglers seeking a delicious and rewarding catch.
Pacific Cod Fishing in Monterey
Targeting Pacific Cod in Monterey offers a unique nearshore fishing experience. Unlike further north, you can find decent-sized cod relatively close to shore, making it accessible for smaller boats and even kayak anglers. The key is structure: rocky reefs, kelp forests, and submerged canyons hold the most fish. Spring and early summer are prime times, as the cod move into shallower water to spawn. Try bouncing jigs tipped with squid or shrimp along the bottom. A local tip: Check the tide charts carefully, as strong currents can make it difficult to hold bottom, especially around the Monterey Canyon. Launching from Monterey Municipal Wharf or Fisherman's Wharf provides easy access, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. The cod here tend to be smaller than those found further north, but they're still a tasty and rewarding catch.
Plan a Trip to Monterey
See what's biting in Monterey, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Pacific Cod
Pacific Cod Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
10 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Ocean Enhancement Validation is required when fishing south of Point Arguello.
Part of the 10 fish Rockfish, Cabezon, Greenling (RCG) complex aggregate limit. Check specific Marine Protected Area (MPA) regulations for closures.
⚠️ 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 Pacific Cod in Monterey, CA?
The best months for Pacific Cod in Monterey are January, February, March, April, October, November, December.
What are the Pacific Cod fishing regulations in California?
In California, the season is year-round, the daily bag limit is 10 per day, 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 Pacific Cod in California?
Ocean Enhancement Validation is required when fishing south of Point Arguello.. On a guided charter, anglers are often covered under the captain's license — confirm with your guide when booking.
More Pacific Cod Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Monterey
Ready to Catch Pacific Cod in Monterey?
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