Can You Spearfish in California? A Comprehensive Guide to Spearfishing Regulations in the Golden State

Spearfishing is a thrilling way to hunt for fish, but it’s important to understand the regulations and restrictions in place to ensure you’re fishing legally and ethically. In California, the rules around spearfishing can be complex, with different regulations for saltwater and freshwater, as well as specific species and locations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of spearfishing in California, so you can make the most of your time in the water while staying on the right side of the law.

Saltwater Spearfishing Regulations in California

When it comes to spearfishing in saltwater, California has a few key regulations to keep in mind:

• Spearfishing is prohibited while using SCUBA gear or other underwater breathing apparatus.
• The recreational fishery for California halibut remains open year-round, with a daily bag and possession limit of five fish south of Point Sur, Monterey County, and a minimum size limit of 22 inches total length.
• The fisheries for kelp bass, barred sand bass, and spotted sand bass remain open year-round, with a daily bag and possession limit of five fish in any combination of species and a minimum size limit of 14 inches total length or 10 inches alternate length.
• The recreational fishery for white seabass remains open year-round, with a daily bag and possession limit of three fish, except that only one fish may be taken in waters south of Point Conception between March 15 and June 15, and a minimum size limit of 28 inches total length or 20 inches alternate length.
• The recreational fishery for California sheephead is open year-round to divers and shore-based anglers, and open to boat-based anglers from March 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024, with a daily bag and possession limit of 2 fish and a minimum size limit of 12 inches total length.

It’s important to note that there are also regulations around the taking of certain species, such as rockfish, cabezon, kelp and rock greenlings, lingcod, and leopard shark, which are part of the groundfish group. Be sure to check the current regulations for these species before heading out.

Freshwater Spearfishing Regulations in California

While saltwater spearfishing has a few exceptions, freshwater spearfishing is generally prohibited for fish species in California, aside from a half-dozen or so specific exceptions listed in the California Code of Regulations Title 14, section 2.30:

• The Colorado River District for carp, tilapia, goldfish and mullet, all year.
• The Valley District and Black Butte Lake (Tehama County) for carp, tilapia, goldfish, striped bass, Sacramento (Western) Sucker, Sacramento blackfish, hardhead, Sacramento pikeminnow and lamprey, from May 1 through September 15, with some exceptions.
• The Kern River from the Kern-Tulare county line upstream to the Johnsondale Bridge for carp, goldfish, Sacramento (Western) Sucker, hardhead and Sacramento pikeminnow, from May 1 through September 15.

It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these specific exceptions and the associated regulations before attempting any freshwater spearfishing in California.

Penalties for Violating Spearfishing Regulations

Violating spearfishing regulations in California can result in severe consequences, including hefty fines exceeding $1000, misdemeanor charges, and even potential prison time. It’s essential to stay informed about the latest regulations and ensure that you’re in compliance at all times.

At Project Spearfishing, we’re dedicated to providing the spearfishing community with up-to-date and accurate information about regulations in California and beyond. Before heading out, be sure to check our site for the most current information and guidance on spearfishing safely and legally.

Remember, the penalties for violating spearfishing regulations are not worth the risk. Take the time to understand the rules, follow them to the letter, and enjoy your time in the water knowing that you’re doing it the right way.