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 Santa Barbara. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Rockfish
Santa Barbara offers some prime rockfish action, largely due to its diverse underwater structure. The Channel Islands, easily accessible from Santa Barbara Harbor, are a rockfish haven. Think rocky reefs, kelp forests, and deep drop-offs – ideal habitat. The best time to target these bottom dwellers is typically during the cooler months, from fall through spring, when they move into shallower waters to spawn. Keep a close eye on water temperature; rockfish tend to be more active when the water is cooler. A local tip: try fishing near the edges of kelp forests with live squid or shrimp. Also, be aware of depth restrictions and regulations as they can vary depending on the specific location and species you're targeting. Expect to encounter a variety of rockfish species, from the colorful vermilion to the tasty bocaccio. Remember to use a descending device to help release rockfish caught from deep water to improve their survival rate.
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
Are there specific regulations I should know about Rockfish near Santa Barbara?
Yes, Rockfish regulations, including seasons, bag limits, and size limits, vary by zone. Always check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations before fishing.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Rockfish in Santa Barbara?
Yes, a valid California sport fishing license is required to fish for Rockfish.
Where can I find the most up-to-date Rockfish regulations for the Santa Barbara area?
Consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website or their printed regulations booklet for the latest information on Rockfish seasons, bag limits, and size limits in your specific fishing zone.
Can I fish for Rockfish all year in Santa Barbara?
The Rockfish season varies by zone, so you need to consult the current regulations to determine when it's open in the specific area you plan to fish.
More Rockfish Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Santa Barbara
Ready to Catch Rockfish in Santa Barbara?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.




