Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch yellowtail.
Brothers Sport Fishing
Deep Sea Private Charter Fishing For Tuna, Yellowtail, Bass, & More San Diego Fishing Charters. San Diego Sport Fishing Guided Charter Trips.
On The Fly Fishing Charters
San Diego fly fishing guides mako shark charters tuna, yellowtail, halibut & cod bay fishing half day or full day
Ventura Harbor Sportfishing
Deep sea sportfishing from Ventura California. Catch bass, rockfish, tuna, yellowtail, sheephead, whitefish, rockfish, and more, on modern Sport boats.
Malihini Sportfishing
Malihini Sportfishing San Diego California, Don’t Wait! Book Your Trip Today! REQUEST A QUOTE Malihini 3/4 Day Sportfishing The Malihini A Proud Tradition of Dependable Service. Malihini specializes in 3/4 day fishing local and at the the Coronado Islands for Yellowtail, Bonito, Barracuda, Halibut, Rockfish, White Sea Bass, and Sculpin. The Malihini A Proud Tradition of Dependable Service
Pierpoint Landing Sportfishing
Deep sea sportfishing from Long Beach California. Catch bass, rockfish, tuna, yellowtail, sheephead, whitefish, and more, on modern Sport boats.
Best Time to Catch Yellowtail
Yellowtail can be caught year-round in Huntington Beach. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Yellowtail
If you're looking to tangle with some hard-fighting yellowtail, Huntington Beach, CA, provides a good starting point. These fish are drawn to the kelp forests and offshore islands. The bite typically heats up in the late summer and fall when warmer waters push up the coast. Live bait, like sardines or anchovies, is the go-to method. Slow-trolling or drifting these baits near kelp paddies can be incredibly effective. Also, consider using surface iron lures for exciting topwater action. A local tip: the area around Catalina Island, easily accessible from Huntington Beach, is a yellowtail hotspot. Check local tackle shops for the latest intel on where the fish are holding and what they're biting. Yellowtail in this region are known for their powerful runs, so make sure your gear is up to the task. Be prepared for some long days on the water, but the reward of landing a trophy yellowtail is well worth the effort.
How to Catch Yellowtail
Yellowtail Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
24-inch minimum fork length
License Required
Ocean Enhancement Validation is required when fishing south of Point Arguello.
Regulations may vary by location; check current regulations booklet.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum size yellowtail I can keep in California?
The minimum fork length for yellowtail is 24 inches. Be sure to measure your catch from the tip of the snout to the fork in the tail.
How many yellowtail can I keep per day in California?
The daily bag limit for yellowtail is 5 fish per person.
Do I need a special permit to fish for yellowtail near Huntington Beach?
If you are fishing south of Point Arguello, you will need an Ocean Enhancement Validation on your fishing license.
What's the best bait for catching yellowtail off Huntington Beach?
Yellowtail are known to be aggressive feeders. Live bait like sardines and mackerel are very effective, as are lures like jigs and surface iron.
More Yellowtail Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Huntington Beach
Ready to Catch Yellowtail in Huntington Beach?
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