Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch rockfish.
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 Rockfish
Rockfish can be caught year-round in Monterey. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Rockfish
Monterey Bay offers exceptional rockfish opportunities thanks to its diverse underwater structure and abundant forage. Lingcod, cabezon, and various rockfish species thrive here. The best time to target them is generally from late spring through fall, as calmer weather and warmer water bring baitfish closer to shore, concentrating the rockfish. Focus your efforts around the numerous reefs and rocky outcroppings that dot the coastline. Monterey Harbor is a popular launch point, but be prepared for potentially rough conditions, especially in the afternoon. A key tip is to observe the local forage – if you see schools of anchovies or squid, match your lure or bait accordingly. Don't be afraid to experiment with different depths; rockfish often suspend at varying levels depending on water temperature and current. The rockfish population here is healthy, but practicing catch and release, especially with larger, breeding-age fish, helps ensure the fishery's sustainability.
How to Catch Rockfish
Rockfish Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Varies by zone; check regulations
Daily Bag Limit
Varies by zone; check regulations
Size Limit
Varies by zone; check regulations
License Required
Sport fishing license
Regulations vary significantly by management area and species; check specific regulations for the area and species you intend to fish. There are sub-bag limits for certain rockfish species.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to fish for rockfish in Monterey, California?
Yes, you need a valid California sport fishing license to fish for rockfish.
What are the regulations for rockfish in Monterey, CA?
Rockfish regulations vary by zone. Check the current regulations for the specific area you plan to fish, as bag limits, size limits, and seasons can change.
When is the best time to fish for rockfish in Monterey?
The rockfish season varies by zone, so consult current regulations. Generally, calmer weather days are best for reaching offshore rockfish spots.
What's a good bait or lure for rockfish near Monterey?
Rockfish in Monterey Bay often bite on jigs, shrimp flies, and live bait like anchovies or sardines. Check with local tackle shops for recent hotspots and bait recommendations.
More Rockfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Monterey
Ready to Catch Rockfish in Monterey?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.