It's that time of year again!
Although a fishery that only takes a short hiatus, the opening of sea-based rockfish angling marks the start of sportfishing to many California Anglers. Closed from the new year to the beginning of March, the season signifies the warmer waters and awesome fishing to come. This year brings the same time period with slightly different regulations. Here are some rules to consider before getting on the water!
Season Restrictions
Duration: Season is open from March 1 to 12/31, 2022 for sea-based anglers
(year round for shore fishing and diving)
Depth: Rockfish may only be targeted within 100 Fathoms (600ft)
Limit Restrictions
Rockfish: 10 fish total limit (while abiding by species sub-limits)
Vermillion Rockfish: 4 fish per angler per day sub-limit
Copper Rockfish: 1 fish per angler per day sub-limit
Quillback Rockfish: 1 fish per angler per day sub-limit
Yelloweye Rockfish, Bronzespotted Rockfish, and Cowcod: 0 fish
Other Season-Restricted Species
Kelp and Rock Greenlings: Up to 10 fish counting towards the rockfish limit
Lingcod: 2 fish w/ size limit of 22" length
California Sheephead: 5 fish
Ocean Whitefish: 10 fish
Leopard Shark: 3 fish w/ size limit of 26" length