As the sun rises over the picturesque Monterey Bay, anglers flock to the Santa Cruz Wharf, eager to cast their lines and try their luck at catching the day’s fresh catch. But before you join them, you might be wondering: do you need a fishing license to fish in Santa Cruz in 2024?
The Basics of Fishing Licenses in California
In California, anyone 16 years of age or older is required to have a valid fishing license to take any fish, shellfish, reptile, or amphibian in the state. This regulation is in place to help protect fish populations and ensure that future generations of anglers can enjoy the sport.
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. You don’t need a license if you’re fishing from a public pier in ocean waters. Additionally, the state offers two free fishing days each year that allow anglers to try sport fishing without a license.
Fishing License Options in Santa Cruz
If you plan to fish in Santa Cruz in 2024, you have several options when it comes to obtaining a fishing license. You can purchase a license online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) website, at a license agent located throughout the state, or at one of the CDFW license sales offices.
The type of license you need depends on your residency status and how many days you plan to fish. Residents can purchase an annual license for $52.66, while nonresidents can get a license for $142.05. Short-term licenses are also available, including one-day ($20.26), two-day ($31.06), and ten-day nonresident ($61.82) options.
Fishing Without a License in Santa Cruz
While a fishing license is generally required, there are a few places in Santa Cruz where you can fish without one. The Santa Cruz Wharf and Capitola Wharf are both popular spots where no fishing license is needed.
At the Santa Cruz Wharf, you can drop your line a half-mile out over the Monterey Bay while enjoying the gorgeous views and entertaining wildlife. If the fish aren’t biting, you can always stop by Stagnaro Bros. for some fresh fish tacos.
The Capitola Wharf is another great place for relaxing fishing over the Monterey Bay, and just like the Santa Cruz Wharf, no fishing license is required. Capitola Boat & Bait, located right on the wharf, has all the gear you need to get started.
Other Fishing Spots in Santa Cruz
If you’re willing to obtain a fishing license, there are plenty of other great spots to cast your line in Santa Cruz. Some popular options include:
- Capitola Boat & Bait: Rent a motorized boat or kayak and get geared up for a day on the water.
- Stagnaro Whale Watching and Fishing Trips: Book a fishing trip with the pros and try your hand at catching sand dabs, salmon, cod, and albacore.
- Loch Lomond Recreation Area: Enjoy a day of fishing at this beautiful mountaintop oasis, complete with boat rentals, bait, tackle, and fishing licenses available on-site.
- Pinto Lake Park: Cast your line for bass at this gem in south county, where boat rentals and fishing pole rentals are available.
- Beaches, Cliffs, and Harbor: Go classic and fish from the shore at popular spots like Manresa, Rio Del Mar, Seacliff, Seabright, and Palm State Beaches, or try your luck at the cliffs and Santa Cruz Harbor jetty.
No matter where you choose to fish in Santa Cruz in 2024, remember to always follow the state’s fishing regulations and be a responsible steward of our aquatic resources.