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 Laguna Beach. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Yellowtail
Southern California yellowtail fishing heats up around Laguna Beach during the warmer months, typically late summer into fall. These hard-fighting fish are drawn to the area by the abundant baitfish that thrive in the kelp forests and offshore waters. Look for them around rocky points, kelp paddies, and submerged reefs. Surface iron jigs are a classic Laguna Beach yellowtail technique – cast them out and retrieve them quickly to trigger aggressive strikes. Keep an eye on water clarity; yellowtail prefer clear, clean water. A tip for shore anglers: try fishing from the rocky outcroppings at Heisler Park early in the morning or late in the evening. Boat anglers will find several launch ramps in nearby Dana Point and Newport Beach. The yellowtail here are known for their speed and stamina, so be sure your gear is up to the challenge.
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's the best bait for Yellowtail fishing in Laguna Beach?
Live bait, such as sardines or anchovies, is highly effective for Yellowtail. Jigs and surface iron lures are also popular choices, especially when targeting actively feeding schools.
Is there a specific season for Yellowtail in Laguna Beach?
Yellowtail can be caught year-round in Southern California, but their availability is often best during the warmer months, from late spring through fall.
What's the minimum size Yellowtail I can keep in California?
The minimum fork length for Yellowtail in California is 24 inches. Any fish smaller than that must be released.
How many Yellowtail can I keep per day in California?
The daily bag limit for Yellowtail in California is 5 fish per person. This applies to fishing near Laguna Beach as well.
More Yellowtail Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in Laguna Beach
Ready to Catch Yellowtail in Laguna Beach?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.