27.00 Definition. The Ocean and San Francisco Bay District consists of the Ocean and San Francisco Bay, as described herein. The Ocean is the open seas adjacent to the coast and islands and the waters of open or enclosed bays contiguous to the ocean, including the waters of Elkhorn Slough, west of Elkhorn Road between Castroville and Watsonville. San Francisco Bay is the waters of San Francisco and San Pablo bays plus all their tidal bays, sloughs, estuaries, and tidal portions of their rivers and streams between the Golden Gate Bridge and the west Carquinez Bridge. For purposes of this section, waters downstream of the Trancas Bridge on the Napa River, downstream of the Highway 121 Bridge on Sonoma Creek, and downstream of the Payran Street Bridge on the Petaluma River are tidal portions of the Napa River, Sonoma Creek, and Petaluma River, respectively. Also see Section 1.53.
27.05. Chumming. Chumming, including chumming with live bait, is permitted.
27.10. Live Bait Restrictions. Tilapia may not be used or possessed for use as bait in ocean waters.
27.15. Multi-Day Fishing Trips. The following provisions apply to anglers and to boat owners and operators when a Declaration for a Multi-Day Fishing Trip has been filed with the department.
(a) Provisions related to the angler: Up to three daily bag and possession limits of saltwater fin fish, lobster and rock scallops and up to two daily bag and possession limits of abalone are allowed for a person fishing during a multi-day trip in ocean waters from a boat whose owner or operator has filed a Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip, pursuant to the provisions of sub-section (b) below.
(1) The provisions of this section do not authorize any person to take more than one daily bag limit of fish during one calendar day.
(2) The provisions of this section do not apply to the taking and possession of salmon, steelhead, striped bass and sturgeon.
(b) Provisions related to the boat owner or operator who has filed for a Declaration for a Multi-Day Fishing Trip:
(1) The owner or operator of a boat shall submit to the nearest department office a Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip and payment as specified in Section 701. The Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip shall include the following information:
(A) Place, date and time of departure of the boat.
(B) Place, date and estimated time of return of the boat.
(C) Name of the boat.
(D) Date and hour Declaration mailed or delivered to the department.
(E) Additional requirements for Commercial Passenger Fishing Vessels:
1. The Commercial Boat Registration Number issued pursuant to Fish and Game Code Section 7880.
2. Copy of passenger manifest if fishing within 10 miles of the mainland shore of California.
(2) The Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip must be submitted to the nearest department office in order for any person aboard such boat to possess more than one bag limit of saltwater fin fish, abalone, lobster and rock scallops. If mailed, the Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip must be received at least 48 hours prior to the date of the boat’s departure. If the 48-hours advance notice is not met, the original copy of the form signed by an authorized department representative must be aboard the vessel during the trip. Forms will be accepted for authorization only during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(3) A Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip may not be filed for a trip unless the trip is continuous and extends for a period of 12 hours or more on the first and last days of the trip and no berthing or docking is permitted within five miles of the mainland shore.
(4) The owner or operator of a boat filing a Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip shall prepare such form in duplicate, and shall require the duplicate to be posted in full view of the passengers aboard the boat.
(5) All passengers must disembark at place of return as stated on the Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip.
Finfish General
27.56. Take General. Except as otherwise provided, there are no closed seasons, closed hours or minimum size limits on fin fish in the Pacific Ocean including all saltwater bays except that in San Francisco Bay between the Golden Gate Bridge and the Carquinez Bridge and in saltwater tributaries to the bay within the area bounded by Interstate 80 and Highways 17, 101 and 37 finfish may not be taken between one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise except from shore or piers.
Finfish – Minimum Size Limits, Bag and Possession Limits, and Seasons
27.20. Groundfish Management Areas, Seasons, Depths, Exceptions, and Fishery Closure/Rule Change Process Described. Regulations that follow in sections 27.25 through 27.50 define fishing seasons and depth constraints that are effective within each Groundfish Management Area (GMA). These sections apply to take and possession of federal groundfish species as defined in Section 1.91 and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos.
(a) Depth Constraints: In a GMA the take, retention and/or possession of certain federal groundfish and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos may be authorized or prohibited in waters shallower than, or deeper than, the identified depth constraint depending on the defined areas and seasons specified in sections 27.25 through 27.50. Two specific definitions of “depth” apply off California. In waters shallower than 30 fathoms, “depth” is defined by general depth contour lines. In waters equal to or deeper than 30 fathoms, “depth” is defined by approximating a particular depth contour by connecting the appropriate set of waypoints adopted in Federal regulations (50 CFR Part 660, Subpart C).
(b) General Provisions.
(1) Take and/or possession of federal groundfish species or species groups and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos is authorized or prohibited as provided in subsections (b)(1)(A) through (b)(1)(D) below and sections 27.25 through 27.50 of these regulations.
(A) Transit: The species or species groups that are closed to take and/or possession in part of a GMA may be possessed aboard a vessel in transit through a closed area with no fishing gear deployed in the water.
(B) Federal groundfish exempt from seasons and depth constraints: “Other Flatfish” as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(10), petrale sole, starry flounder, California scorpionfish, leopard shark, and the federal groundfish species listed in Section 28.49 may be taken or possessed in all depths year-round except as described in subsections 28.49(a) and 28.56(a).
(C) Shore Based Angling: When angling from shore (includes beaches, banks, piers, jetties, breakwaters, docks, and other man-made structures connected to the shore), all species may be taken and/or possessed year-round (see subsection 27.50(b)(1) for exceptions in the Cowcod Conservation Areas). No vessel or watercraft (motorized or non-motorized) may be used to assist in the take, transport and/or possession of these species while angling from shore under this provision.
(D) Diving or Spearfishing: When diving or spearfishing, as authorized in Section 28.90, all species may be taken and/or possessed year-round (See subsection 27.50(b)(2)) for exceptions in the Cowcod Conservation Areas). When boat-based groundfish fishing is closed, all types of fishing gear, except spearfishing gear, are prohibited to be aboard the vessel or watercraft (motorized or non-motorized) when taking and/or possessing these species under this provision.
(c) Closed Season: During any closed season in any GMA, it is unlawful to take or possess all species of rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, and greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos regardless of depth, except as provided in subsections (b)(1)(A) through (b)(1)(D) above and sections 27.25 through 27.50 of these regulations.
(d) California Rockfish Conservation Area: Within any GMA, waters that are closed for certain species or species groups during specified times and/or closed in specified depths shall be known as the California Rockfish Conservation Area. See Section 27.51.
(e) Fishery closure and/or rule change: When the department determines, based on the best available scientific information, that an annual harvest limit [optimum yield (OY), annual catch limit (ACL), annual catch target (ACT), recreational harvest guideline, or recreational harvest target] established in regulation by the NOAA Fisheries (National Marine Fisheries Service) for any species of federal groundfish or aggregate group of federal groundfish species has been exceeded or is projected to be exceeded prior to the end of the year or that catches are less than predicted, the following rule changes may occur:
(1) The department may modify the seasons and/or depth constraints for any species of federal groundfish or aggregate group of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. Season and/or depth modifications may differ by area, time of year, mode of fishing, or gear utilized.
(2) The department may adjust existing bag or sub-bag limits or establish additional bag or sub-bag limits as needed for any species of federal groundfish or aggregate group of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. Bag limits may differ by area, time of year, mode of fishing, or gear utilized.
(3) The department may adjust existing size limits or establish additional size limits as needed for any species of federal groundfish or aggregate group of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. Size limits may differ by area, time of year, mode of fishing, or gear utilized.
(f) Notice of closure and/or rule change: The department shall give the public and the NOAA Fisheries no less than 10 calendar days’ notice of any fishery closure or rule change implemented pursuant to this section via a department news release. Anglers and divers are advised to check the current rules before fishing. The latest fishing rules may be found on the department’s website at: www.wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean.
27.25. Northern Groundfish Management Area. This Section applies to take and/or possession of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. For specific definitions, applicability, and procedures, see sections 1.91 and 27.20. For size limits, bag and possession limits, and other regulations that apply to individual species, see specific sections beginning with Section 27.60.
(a) The Northern Groundfish Management Area means ocean waters between 42° 00’ N. lat. (the Oregon/California border) and 40° 10’ N. lat. (near Cape Mendocino, Humboldt County).
(b) Seasons and depth constraints effective for all species of rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos:
(1) January 1 through May 14: Closed.
(2) May 15 through October 15: Open for all species with no depth constraints.
(3) October 16 through December 31: Closed.
27.30. Mendocino Groundfish Management Area. This Section applies to take and/or possession of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. For specific definitions, applicability, and procedures, see sections 1.91 and 27.20. For size limits, bag and possession limits, and other regulations that apply to individual species, see specific sections beginning with Section 27.60.
(a) The Mendocino Groundfish Management Area means ocean waters between 40° 10’ N. lat. (near Cape Mendocino, Humboldt County) and 38° 57.50’ N. lat. (at Point Arena, Mendocino County).
(b) Seasons and depth constraints effective for all species of rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos:
(1) January 1 through May 14: Closed.
(2) May 15 through July 15:
(A) Take and/or possession of species and species groups listed in subsections 1. through 3. is authorized seaward of a line approximating the 50-fathom depth contour along the mainland coast and along islands and offshore seamounts. Take and/or possession of these species is prohibited shoreward of this line, except as provided in subsection 27.20(b). The 50-fathom depth contour is defined by straight lines connecting the set of 50-fathom waypoints as adopted in federal regulations (50 CFR Part 660, Subpart G).
1. Shelf rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(3), except bronzespotted rockfish, cowcod, and yelloweye rockfish which may not be taken or possessed
2. Slope rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(4)
3. Lingcod
(B) Nearshore species closure: Take and/or possession of nearshore rockfish as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(1), cabezon, and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos is prohibited in all waters of the Mendocino Groundfish Management Area.
(3) July 16 through December 31: Open for all species with no depth constraints.
27.35. San Francisco Groundfish Management Area. This Section applies to take and/or possession of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. For specific definitions, applicability, and procedures, see sections 1.91 and 27.20. For size limits, bag and possession limits, and other regulations that apply to individual species, see specific sections beginning with Section 27.60.
(a) The San Francisco Groundfish Management Area means ocean waters between 38° 57.50’ N. lat. (at Point Arena, Mendocino County) and 37° 11’ N. lat. (at Pigeon Point, San Mateo County).
(b) Seasons and depth constraints effective for all species of rockfish, lingcod, cabezon and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos:
(1) January 1 through May 14: Closed.
(2) May 15 through July 15:
(A) Take and/or possession of species and species groups listed in subsections 1. through 3. is authorized seaward of a line approximating the 50-fathom depth contour along the mainland coast and along islands and offshore seamounts. Take and/or possession of these species is prohibited shoreward of this line, except as provided in subsection 27.20(b). The 50-fathom depth contour is defined by straight lines connecting the set of 50-fathom waypoints as adopted in federal regulations (50 CFR Part 660, Subpart G).
1. Shelf rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(3), except bronzespotted rockfish, cowcod, and yelloweye rockfish which may not be taken or possessed
2. Slope rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(4)
3. Lingcod
(B) Nearshore species closure: Take and/or possession of nearshore rockfish as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(1), cabezon, and greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos is prohibited in all waters of the San Francisco Groundfish Management Area.
(3) July 16 through December 31: Open for all species with no depth constraints.
27.40. Central Groundfish Management Area. This Section applies to take and/or possession of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. For specific definitions, applicability, and procedures, see sections 1.91 and 27.20. For size limits, bag and possession limits, and other regulations that apply to individual species, see specific sections beginning with Section 27.60.
(a) The Central Groundfish Management Area means ocean waters between 37° 11’ N. lat. (at Pigeon Point, San Mateo County) and 34° 27’ N. lat. (at Point Conception, Santa Barbara County).
(b) Seasons and depth constraints effective for all species of rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos:
(1) January 1 through April 30: Closed.
(2) May 1 through September 30: Open for all species with no depth constraints.
(3) October 1 through December 31:
(A) Take and/or possession of species and species groups listed in subsections 1. through 3. is authorized seaward of a line approximating the 50-fathom depth contour along the mainland coast and along islands and offshore seamounts. Take and/or possession of these species is prohibited shoreward of this line, except as provided in subsection 27.20(b). The 50-fathom depth contour is defined by straight lines connecting the set of 50-fathom waypoints as adopted in federal regulations (50 CFR Part 660, Subpart G).
1. Shelf rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(3), except bronzespotted rockfish, cowcod, and yelloweye rockfish which may not be taken or possessed
2. Slope rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(4)
3. Lingcod
(B) Nearshore species closure: Take and/or possession of nearshore rockfish as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(1), cabezon, and greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos is prohibited in all waters of the Central Groundfish Management Area.
27.45. Southern Groundfish Management Area. This Section applies to take and/or possession of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. For specific definitions, applicability, and procedures, see sections 1.91 and 27.20. For size limits, bag and possession limits, and other regulations that apply to individual species, see specific sections beginning with Section 27.60.
(a) The Southern Groundfish Management Area means ocean waters between 34° 27’ N. lat. (at Point Conception, Santa Barbara County) and the U.S./Mexico border. The Cowcod Conservation Areas are special closure areas within the Southern Groundfish Management Area, where species authorizations, prohibitions, depth constraints and seasons differ from those of the Southern Groundfish Management Area. See Section 27.50.
(b) Seasons and depth constraints effective for all species of rockfish, lingcod, cabezon and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos:
(1) January 1 through March 31: Closed.
(2) April 1 through September 15: Open for all species with no depth constraints.
(3) September 16 through December 31:
(A) Take and/or possession of species and species groups listed in subsections 1. through 3. is authorized seaward of a line approximating the 50-fathom depth contour along the mainland coast and along islands and offshore seamounts. Take and/or possession of these species is prohibited shoreward of this line, except as provided in subsection 27.20(b). The 50-fathom depth contour is defined by straight lines connecting the set of 50-fathom waypoints as adopted in federal regulations (50 CFR Part 660, Subpart G).
1. Shelf rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(3), except bronzespotted rockfish, cowcod, and yelloweye rockfish which may not be taken or possessed
2. Slope rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(4)
3. Lingcod
27.50. Cowcod Conservation Areas. This Section applies to take and possession of federal groundfish species and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos. For specific definitions, applicability, and procedures, see sections 1.91 and 27.20. For size limits, bag and possession limits, and other regulations that apply to individual species, see specific sections beginning with Section 27.60.
(a) The Cowcod Conservation Areas are defined as ocean waters off southern California within each of the following two areas:
Area 1 is an area south of Point Conception that is bound by straight lines connecting the following points in the order listed:
33° 50’ N. lat., 119° 30’ W. long.;
33° 50’ N. lat., 118° 50’ W. long.;
32° 20’ N. lat., 118° 50’ W. long.;
32° 20’ N. lat., 119° 37’ W. long.;
33° 00’ N. lat., 119° 37’ W. long.;
33° 00’ N. lat., 119° 53’ W. long.;
33° 33’ N. lat., 119° 53’ W. long.;
33° 33’ N. lat., 119° 30’ W. long.; and
33° 50’ N. lat., 119° 30’ W. long.
Area 2 is a smaller area west of San Diego that is bound by straight lines connecting the following points in the order listed:
32° 42’ N. lat., 118° 02’ W. long.;
32° 42’ N. lat., 117° 50’ W. long.;
32° 36’ 42" N. lat., 117° 50’ W. long.;
32° 30’ N. lat., 117° 53’ 30" W. long.;
32° 30’ N. lat., 118° 02’ W. long.; and
32° 42’ N. lat., 118° 02’ W. long.
(b) Seasons and depth constraints (except as provided in subsection (c) below):
(1) Take and/or possession of the following federal groundfish species is authorized year-round in all depths:
(A) California scorpionfish
(B) “Other flatfish” as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(10)
(C) Petrale sole
(D) Starry flounder
(2) For nearshore rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(1), cabezon, all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos, lingcod, and shelf rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(3):
(A) From January 1 through March 31, take and/or possession is prohibited in all waters of the Cowcod Conservation Areas, except as provided in subsection 27.50(c).
(B) From April 1 through September 15, take and/or possession is authorized in the Cowcod Conservation Areas shoreward of a line approximating the 40-fathom depth contour. The 40-fathom depth contour is defined by straight lines connecting the set of 40-fathom waypoints as adopted in federal regulations (50 CFR Part 660, Subpart G).
(C) From September 16 through December 31, take and/or possession is prohibited in all waters of the Cowcod Conservation Areas.
(c) Special exceptions to subsection (b) above:
(1) Notwithstanding subsection 27.20(b)(1)(C), when angling from shore (includes beaches, banks, piers, jetties, breakwaters, docks, and other man-made structures connected to the shore), only the species identified in subsections (b)(1) and (b)(2) above may be taken and/or possessed year-round. No vessel or watercraft (motorized or non-motorized) may be used to assist in the take, transport and/or possession of these species while angling from shore under this provision.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection 27.20(b)(1)(D), when diving or spearfishing, as authorized in Section 28.90, only the species identified in subsections (b)(1) and (b)(2) above may be taken or possessed year-round. Except for spearfishing gear, all other types of fishing gear are prohibited to be aboard the vessel or watercraft (motorized or non-motorized) when taking and/or possessing these species under this provision.
27.51. California Rockfish Conservation Area. California Rockfish Conservation Areas minimize interaction with particular species of groundfish that cannot be selectively avoided and must be protected by closing times, depths or areas to recreational fishing for federal groundfish and all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos.
27.60. Limit.
(a) General. No more than 20 finfish in combination of all species with not more than 10 of any one species, may be taken or possessed by any one person except as otherwise provided or as defined in sub-section (c) below or in Section 195. See sections 27.70 through 28.62 for special bag limits, minimum size limits and poundage restrictions for certain species that apply in addition to the general bag limit.
(b) There is no limit on the following species: anchovy, jacksmelt, topsmelt, Pacific butterfish (pompano), queenfish, sanddabs, skipjack, jack mackerel, Pacific mackerel, Pacific staghorn sculpin, round herring, Pacific sardine, petrale sole and starry flounder.
(c) Boat limit. When two or more persons that are licensed or otherwise authorized to sport fish in ocean waters off California or in the San Francisco Bay District, defined in Section 27.00, are angling for finfish aboard a vessel in these waters, fishing by all authorized persons aboard may continue until boat limits of finfish are taken and possessed aboard the vessel as authorized under this section or Section 195, Title 14, CCR.
(1) The authorization for boat limits aboard a vessel does not apply to fishing trips originating in California where fish are taken in other jurisdictions.
(2) A boat limit for a species or species group is the number of persons aboard a vessel that are licensed or otherwise authorized to sport fish in ocean waters off California, or in waters of the San Francisco Bay District, (see special conditions of Section 195, Title 14, CCR, applicable to operator and crew members of vessels licensed pursuant to Fish and Game Code 7920) multiplied by the individual daily bag limit authorized for a species or species group in those waters. With the exception of species listed in sub-section (b) above, the total fish aboard a boat may not exceed the aggregate per-person daily bag limit of 20 finfish in combination of all species times the number of anglers licensed or otherwise authorized to sport fish aboard the vessel. It is unlawful to exceed the boat limit at any time.
(3) All persons aboard a vessel may be cited where violations involving boat limits are found, including, but not limited to the following violations:
(A) Over limits
(B) Possession of prohibited species
(C) Violation of size limits
(D) Fish taken out of season or in closed areas.
(4) Upon completion of a fishing trip aboard a vessel, each licensed angler or person otherwise authorized to sport fish may not possess more than the individual daily bag and possession limits.For purposes of this section, a trip is completed at the time a person disembarks from a vessel and individual possession limits apply. Special boat limit provisions apply to persons fishing aboard commercial passenger fishing vessels reporting pursuant to Section 195, Title 14, CCR.
(5) Species for which no daily bag limit exists are not counted as part of a boat limit.
(6) Boat limits are not authorized for sturgeon fishing and shall not apply to the take, possession or retention of sturgeon.
27.65. Filleting of Fish on Vessels.
(a) Definition of Fillet: For the purposes of this section a fillet is the flesh from one side of a fish extending from the head to the tail which has been removed from the body (head, tail and backbone) in a single continuous piece.
(b) Fish That May be Filleted: No person shall fillet on any boat or bring ashore as fillets any fish, except in accordance with the following requirements:
(1) Kelp bass, barred sand bass, and spotted sand bass: All fillets shall be a minimum of seven and one-half inches in length. Each fillet shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of skin.
(2) Barracuda: Fillets must be a minimum of 17 inches in length. Each fillet shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of silver skin.
(3) Lingcod. Lingcod fillets must be a minimum of 14 inches in length. Each fillet shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of skin. The minimum size and minimum fillet size for lingcod may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See sub-section 27.20(f) for additional information.
(4) White sea bass: Fillets must be a minimum of 19 inches in length. Each fillet shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of silver skin.
(5) Pacific bonito: No more than 10 fillets of any length may be possessed. All bonito fillets possessed shall be considered a part of the allowable undersized tolerance of five bonito per day less than 24 inches fork length or weighing less than five pounds as provided in Section 28.32 of these regulations. All fillets shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of skin.
(6) California halibut taken from or possessed aboard a vessel south of Point Arena (Mendocino County): Fillets must be a minimum of 16 and three-quarter inches in length and shall bear the entire skin intact. A fillet from a California halibut (flesh from one entire side of the fish with the entire skin intact) may not be cut in half fillets. However, a fillet may be cut lengthwise in a straight line along the midline of the fillet where the fillet was attached to the vertebra (backbone) of the fish only if the two pieces of a fillet remain joined along their midline for a length of at least two inches at one end of the fillet.
(7) Yellowtail: Fillets must be a minimum of 17 inches in length, except not more than 10 fillets may be less than 17 inches. Each fillet shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of skin.
(8) Rockfish: Fillets must have the entire skin attached. The minimum size and minimum fillet size for rockfish may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See sub- section 27.20(f) for additional information.
(9) California scorpionfish (commonly termed “sculpin”): Fillets must be a minimum of 5 inches. Each fillet shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of skin. The minimum size and minimum fillet size for California scorpionfish may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of sub- section 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
(10) Ocean whitefish: Fillets must be a minimum of 6 and one-half inches in length and shall bear the entire skin intact.
(11) For all species of tuna filleted on any boat or brought ashore as fillets south of a line running due west true from Point Conception, Santa Barbara County (34°27’ N. lat.) each fish must be individually bagged as follows:
(A) The bag must be marked with the species’ common name.
(B) The fish must be cut into six pieces with all skin attached. These pieces are the four loins, the collar removed as one piece with both pectoral fins attached and intact, and the belly fillet cut to include the vent and with both pelvic fins attached and intact.
(12) California sheephead: Fillets must be a minimum of 6 and three-quarter inches in length and shall bear the entire skin intact.
(13) All other species except those listed in subsection (c) of this section: Each fillet shall bear intact a one-inch square patch of skin. The fillets may be of any size.
(c) Fish That May Not be Filleted, Steaked or Chunked: No person shall fillet, steak or cut into chunks on any boat or bring ashore as fillets, steaks or chunks the following: any species with a size limit unless a fillet size is otherwise specified in these regulations. California halibut may be filleted or brought ashore as fillets south of Point Arena (Mendocino County).
27.70. Trout in the Ocean.
(a) Methods of take: The trout must voluntarily take the bait or lure in its mouth.
(b) Limit: Three, except the take of steelhead rainbow trout in the ocean is prohibited.
27.75. Salmon Closures.
(a) No salmon may be taken at any time in ocean waters at the Smith River mouth bounded on the north by 41°59’36” N. lat. (approximately 3 nautical miles north of the Smith River mouth), on the west by 124°16’24” W. long. (approximately 3 nautical miles offshore), and on the south by 41°53’30” N. lat. (approximately 3 nautical miles south of the Smith River mouth).
(b) No salmon may be taken at any time in ocean waters at the Klamath River mouth bounded on the north by 41°35’30” N. lat. (approximately 3 nautical miles north of the Klamath River mouth), on the west by 124°08’54” W. long. (approximately 3 nautical miles offshore), and on the south by 41°29’24” N. lat. (approximately 3 nautical miles south of the Klamath River mouth). In August, the ocean salmon closure expands into the “Klamath Control Zone.” The Klamath Control Zone is defined in federal regulations as the ocean area at the Klamath River mouth bounded on the north by 41°38’48” N. lat. (approximately 6 nautical miles north of the Klamath River mouth), on the west by 124°23’00” W. long. (approximately 12 nautical miles offshore), and on the south by 41°26’48” N. lat. (approximately 6 nautical miles south of the Klamath River mouth).
(c) No salmon may be taken during the months of August and September in ocean waters at the Eel River mouth bounded on the north by 40°40’24” N. lat. (approximately 2 nautical miles north of the Eel River mouth), on the west by 124°21’24” W. long. (approximately 2 nautical miles offshore), and on the south by 40°36’24” N. lat. (approximately 2 nautical miles south of the Eel River mouth).
27.80. Salmon.
[Ocean salmon seasons for 2023 will be adopted at the Pacific Fishery Management Council meetings in March and April, 2023. For current recreational ocean salmon season information, visit the Ocean Salmon web page.]
(a) Methods of take:
(1) General Provisions. Only by angling as defined in Section 1.05. No sinkers or weights exceeding four pounds may be used, except that a fishing line may be attached to a sinker or weight of any size if such sinker or weight is suspended by a separate line and the fishing line is released automatically by a mechanical device from the sinker or weight when any fish is hooked. See sections 28.65 and 28.70.
(2) Barbless Hooks. No more than two (2) single point, single shank barbless hooks shall be used in the ocean north of Point Conception (34° 27’00” N. lat.) when salmon fishing or fishing from any boat or floating device with salmon on board.
(3) Other Hook Restrictions. When fishing with bait in the ocean between Horse Mountain (40°05’00” N. lat.) and Point Conception, if angling by any means other than trolling, then no more than two (2) single point, single shank, barbless circle hooks shall be used. The distance between the two hooks must not exceed five inches when measured from the top of the eye of the top hook to the inner base of the curve of the lower hook, and both hooks must be permanently tied in place (hard tied). A circle hook is defined as a hook with a generally circular shape, and a point which turns inwards, pointing directly to the shank at a 90-degree angle. Trolling is defined as angling from a boat or floating device that is making way by means of a source of power, other than drifting by means of the prevailing water current or weather conditions. See Section 28.65(g).
(4) One Rod Restriction north of Point Conception. Salmon may be taken by angling with no more than one rod in ocean waters north of Point Conception. See Section 28.65(e).
(b) Statewide coho (silver) salmon restrictions: No coho (silver) salmon may be retained.
(c) Open Fishing Days, Daily Bag Limits, and Minimum Size in effect on or after May 16, 2022.
(1) North of 40°10'00" N. lat and in Humboldt Bay.
(A) Open to salmon fishing May 16 through May 31, and August 1 through September 5, 2022. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 20 inches total length.
(2) Between 40°10'00" N. lat and Point Arena (38°57'30" N. lat.).
(A) Open to salmon fishing May 16 through July 4, and July 22 through September 5, 2022. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 20 inches total length.
(3) Between Point Arena and Pigeon Point (37°11'00" N. lat.).
(A) Open to salmon fishing May 16 through May 31, and June 23 through October 31, 2022. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 20 inches total length.
(4) Between Pigeon Point and Point Sur (36°18'00" N. lat.).
(A) Open to salmon fishing May 16 through October 2, 2022. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 20 inches total length.
(5) South of Point Sur.
(A) Open to salmon fishing May 16 through October 2, 2022. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 20 inches total length.
(d) Open Fishing Days, Daily Bag Limits, and Minimum Size in effect on or after April 1, 2023. Public notification of any in-season change to state salmon regulations to conform to in-season changes to federal regulations is made through the National Marine Fisheries Service ocean salmon hotline at (800) 662-9825.
(1) North of 40°10'00" N. lat and in Humboldt Bay.
(A) Open to salmon fishing beginning May 1, 2023. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 20 inches total length.
(2) Between 40°10'00" N. lat and Point Arena (38°57'30" N. lat.).
(A) Open to salmon fishing beginning April 1, 2023. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 20 inches total length.
(3) Between Point Arena and Pigeon Point (37°11'00" N. lat.).
(A) Open to salmon fishing beginning April 1, 2023. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 24 inches total length.
(4) Between Pigeon Point and Point Sur (36°18'00" N. lat.).
(A) Open to salmon fishing beginning April 1, 2023. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 24 inches total length.
(5) South of Point Sur.
(A) Open to salmon fishing beginning April 1, 2023. Fishing is authorized 7 days per week.
(B) Daily Bag Limit: 2 salmon per day. See subsection (b) above and subsection (e) below.
(C) Minimum size: 24 inches total length.
(e) Ocean salmon possession limit: No more than two daily bag limits may be possessed when on land. On a vessel in ocean waters, no person shall possess or bring ashore more than one daily bag limit. See Section 1.17 and 27.60(c) of these regulations.
27.85. Striped Bass.
(a) Open season: All year.
(b) Limit: Two.
(c) Minimum size:
(1) North of Pt. Conception, 18 inches total length.
(2) South of Pt. Conception, no minimum size limit.
(d) Methods of take: No striped bass may be taken while using a sinker weighing over four pounds, or while using any power-driven gurdy or winch. Striped bass may only be taken by angling as defined by Section 1.05, Title 14, CCR, spearfishing pursuant to Section 1.76, and bow and arrow fishing tackle; snagging is an illegal method of take.
27.90. White Sturgeon.
(a) Open season: All year.
(b) Daily and annual bag limit: One fish per day. Three fish per year statewide.
(c) Size limit: No fish less than 40 inches fork length or greater than 60 inches fork length may be taken or possessed.
(d) Methods of take: Only one single point, single shank, barbless hook may be used on a line when taking sturgeon. The sturgeon must voluntarily take the bait or lure in its mouth. No sturgeon may be taken by trolling, snagging or by the use of firearms. Sturgeon may not be gaffed, nor shall any person use any type of firearm or snare to take any sturgeon. For the purposes of this section, a snare is a flexible loop made from any material that can be tightened like a noose around any part of the fish.
(e) Removal from water. Any sturgeon greater than 68 inches fork length may not be removed from the water and shall be released immediately.
(f) Report card required: Any person fishing for or taking sturgeon shall have in their possession a non-transferable Sturgeon Fishing Report Card issued by the department and shall adhere to all reporting and tagging requirements for sturgeon defined in Sections 1.74 and 27.92, Title 14, CCR.
(g) For regulations on take and possession of sturgeon in inland waters as defined in Section 1.53, see Section 5.80 and Section 5.81.
(h) Boat limits, as defined in sub-section 27.60(e) and Section 195, are not authorized for sturgeon fishing and shall not apply to the take, possession or retention of white sturgeon.
27.91. Green Sturgeon.
(a) Green sturgeon may not be taken or possessed.
(b) Green sturgeon may not be removed from the water and shall be released immediately.
(c) Green sturgeon taken and released incidentally to white sturgeon fishing shall be reported on a Sturgeon Fishing Report Card issued by the department, in accordance with procedures defined in Sections 1.74 and 27.92, Title 14, CCR.
27.92. White Sturgeon Report Card and Tagging Requirements for Ocean Waters.
(a) Sturgeon Fishing Report Card Required. All anglers must have a valid Sturgeon Fishing Report Card in their possession while fishing for or taking white sturgeon. Cardholders must complete and return the card pursuant to regulations in this Section and in Section 1.74 of these regulations.
(b) Tagging and Recording Requirements for Retained Fish. A Sturgeon Fishing Report Card includes detachable tags that shall be used to tag any white sturgeon that is taken and retained in the sport fishery. Any white sturgeon possessed by any person shall be tagged.
(1) Upon taking and retaining a white sturgeon, the cardholder shall immediately record the following information:
(A) The fishing location, time of catch and length of the fish shall be recorded legibly and permanently in the appropriate spaces on the tag. The cardholder shall immediately and completely punch out the date of catch (month and day) on the sturgeon tag. Tags shall be used in sequential order.
(B) The month, day, fishing location and length of the fish shall be recorded in the appropriate spaces on the Sturgeon Fishing Report Card which corresponds to the number on the tag.
(2) Immediately after recording the information above, the cardholder shall remove and completely detach the tag from the card and affix it to the white sturgeon. Cardholders shall not wait until completion of fishing activity to tag any white sturgeon in possession.
(3) The tag shall be securely fastened to the fish. To affix the tag, a “zip tie”, string, line or other suitable material shall be passed through the tag at the location specified on the sturgeon tag and attached to the fish.
(4) Tags shall not be removed from the report card until immediately prior to affixing to a white sturgeon. Any tags detached from the report card and not affixed to a white sturgeon shall be considered used and therefore invalid. No person shall possess any used or otherwise invalid sturgeon tags.
(5) Records of Prior Activity. All tags must be accounted for at all times by entry of a record on the Sturgeon Fishing Report Card corresponding to all tags that are not in the cardholder’s possession. Any tag that was lost or destroyed shall be recorded as such on the corresponding line on the Sturgeon Fishing Report Card.
(6) If the sturgeon has a department reward disk attached, write the reward disk number in the space provided on the report card.
(c) Reporting Requirements for Released Fish.
(1) Whenever the cardholder catches and releases a sturgeon, the cardholder shall immediately record the month, day, location code, and species of sturgeon.
(2) If all lines in the “sturgeon released” field of the report card are filled, any additional sturgeon caught and released need not be recorded on the card.
(3) If the sturgeon has a department reward disk attached, write the reward disk number in the space provided on the report card.
(d) Sturgeon tags must be left affixed to the fish in place, including while stored at a residence or non-transient location, until the fish is processed for immediate consumption.
(e) The annual fee for the Sturgeon Fishing Report Card is specified in Section 701 of these regulations
27.95. Sturgeon Closure. Green sturgeon and white sturgeon may not be taken in the following described area between January 1 and March 15: That portion of San Francisco Bay included within the following boundaries: A direct line between Pt. Chauncey (National Marine Fisheries Laboratory) and Pt. Richmond, the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and a direct line between Pt. Lobos and Pt. Bonita.
28.00. Grunion, California.
(a) It shall be unlawful to take grunion from April 1 through June 30.
(b) Limit: 30.
28.05. Garibaldi. May not be taken or possessed.
28.06. White Shark. White shark may not be taken, except under permit issued by the department pursuant to Section 1002 of the Fish and Game Code for scientific or educational purposes.
28.10. Giant (Black) Sea Bass.
(a) May not be taken off California. All fish taken incidental to other fishing activity shall be immediately returned to the water where taken.
(b) Limit: Two per angler per trip when fishing south of United States-Mexico border. A valid fishing permit or license from the Mexican government constitutes proof that fish were taken legally.
28.12. Gulf Grouper and Broomtail Grouper. May not be taken or possessed.
28.15. Halibut, California.
(a) Limit: Five in waters south of a line extending due west magnetic from Point Sur, Monterey County, and three in waters north of a line extending due west magnetic from Point Sur, Monterey County.
(b) Minimum size: Twenty-two inches total length.
28.20. Halibut, Pacific.
The Pacific halibut quota has been filled and the recreational fishery is closed as of August 7, 2022.
(a) Season:
(1) Pacific halibut may only be taken from May 1-November 15, or until the quota is reached, whichever is earlier. Pacific halibut take is regulated by a quota that is closely monitored each year in alignment with federal regulations.
(2) The Pacific halibut quota is published in the Federal Register. The department shall inform the commission and the public via a press release prior to any implementation of restrictions triggered by achieving or expecting to exceed the quota. Anglers and divers are advised to check the current rules before fishing. The latest fishing rules may be found on the department's website at: wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean, or by calling the Recreational Groundfish Fishing Regulations Hotline (831) 649-2801 or the National Marine Fisheries Service Area 2A Halibut Hotline (800) 662-9825 for recorded information, or by contacting a department office.
[For current Pacific Halibut season information, visit the Pacific Halibut web page.]
(b) Limit: One.
(c) Minimum size: None.
(d) Methods of Take:
(1) When angling, no more than one line with two hooks attached may be used.
(2) A harpoon, gaff, or net may be used to assist in taking a Pacific halibut that has been legally caught by angling. See Section 28.95 of these regulations for additional restrictions on the use of harpoons.
(3) Take by spearfishing is allowed pursuant to Section 28.90 of these regulations.
28.25. Barracuda, California. Minimum size: Twenty-eight inches total length or seventeen inches alternate length.
28.26. California Sheephead.
(a) Closed season: January 1 through the last day in February with the following exceptions:
(1) Shore Based Angling: When angling from shore (including beaches, banks, piers, jetties, breakwaters, docks, and other artificial structures connected to the shore), California sheephead may be taken and/or possessed year-round. No vessel or watercraft (motorized or non-motorized) may be used to assist in the take, transport and/or possession California sheephead while angling from shore under this provision.
(2) Diving or Spearfishing: When diving or spearfishing, California sheephead may be taken and/or possessed year-round. During the closed season, January 1 through the last day in February, all types of fishing gear, except spearfishing gear, are prohibited to be aboard the vessel or watercraft (motorized or non−motorized) when taking and/or possessing California sheephead under this provision.
(b) Limit: Two.
(c) Minimum size: 12 inches total length. See subsection 27.65(b) for fillet size limit.
(d) Fishing rules for California sheephead may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of Section 52.10.
28.27. Lingcod.
(a) Open areas, seasons, and depth constraints: See Section 27.20 through Section 27.50 for definitions, special closure areas, and exceptions. Take and/or possession is authorized as follows:
(1) Northern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.25.
(2) Mendocino Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.30.
(3) San Francisco Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.35.
(4) Central Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.40.
(5) Southern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.45.
(6) Cowcod Conservation Areas: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.50.
(b) Limit: Two
(c) Size limit: 22 inches total length. See subsection 27.65(b) for fillet size limit.
(d) Method of take: When angling, gear is restricted to not more than two hooks and one line. For purposes of this section, a hook is a single hook, or a double or treble hook with multiple points connected to a common shank.
(e) Fishing rules for lingcod may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.28. Cabezon.
(a) Open areas, seasons, and depth constraints: See Section 27.20 through Section 27.50 for definitions, special closure areas, and exceptions. Take and/or possession is authorized as follows:
(1) Northern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.25.
(2) Mendocino Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.30.
(3) San Francisco Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.35.
(4) Central Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.40.
(5) Southern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.45.
(6) Cowcod Conservation Areas: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.50.
(b) Limit: 10 fish, within a Rockfish, Cabezon, and Greenling complex (RCG complex, as defined in Section 1.91) bag limit of 10 fish.
(c) Minimum size: 15 inches total length. See subsection 27.65(c) for fillet regulations.
(d) Method of take: When angling, gear is restricted to not more than two hooks and one line. For purposes of this section, a hook is a single hook, or a double or treble hook with multiple points connected to a common shank.
(e) Fishing rules for cabezon may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.29. Kelp greenling. Rock greenling. (Genus Hexagrammos).
(a) Open areas, seasons, and depth constraints for greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos (including kelp and rock greenlings): See Section 27.20 through Section 27.50 for definitions, special closure areas, and exceptions. Take and/or possession is authorized as follows:
(1) Northern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.25.
(2) Mendocino Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.30.
(3) San Francisco Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.35.
(4) Central Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.40.
(5) Southern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.45.
(6) Cowcod Conservation Areas: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.50.
(b) Limit: For greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos, ten fish within a Rockfish, Cabezon, and Greenling complex (RCG complex, as defined in Section 1.91) bag limit of 10 fish.
(c) Minimum size: 12 inches total length. See subsection 27.65(b) for fillet regulations.
(d) Method of take: When angling, gear is restricted to not more than two hooks and one line. For purposes of this section, a hook is a single hook, or a double or treble hook with multiple points connected to a common shank.
(e) Fishing rules for greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.30. Kelp Bass, Barred Sand Bass and Spotted Sand Bass.
(a) Minimum size: Fourteen inches total length or ten inches alternate length.
(b) Limit: Five in any combination of species.
28.32. Pacific Bonito.
(a) Limit: Ten.
(b) Minimum size: Twenty-four inches fork length or five pounds except that: Five fish less than twenty-four inches fork length or weighing less than five pounds may be taken and possessed.
28.35. White Seabass.
(a) Minimum size: Twenty-eight inches total length or twenty and one-half inches alternate length.
(b) Season: Open all year.
(c) Limit: Three, except that only one fish may be taken in waters south of Pt. Conception between March 15 and June 15.
28.37. Yellowtail.
(a) Limit: Ten.
(b) Minimum size: Twenty-four inches fork length except that: Five fish less than twenty-four inches fork length may be taken or possessed.
28.38. Tunas. The following daily bag limits apply:
(a) Albacore:
(1) South of a line running due west true from 34°27’ N. lat. (at Point Conception, Santa Barbara County) – The special limit for albacore is 10, which may be taken or possessed in addition to the overall general daily bag limit of 20 finfish specified in sub-section 27.60(a).
(2) North of a line running due west true from 34°27’ N. lat. (at Point Conception, Santa Barbara County) – The special limit for albacore is 25, which may be taken or possessed in addition to the overall general daily bag limit of 20 finfish specified in sub-section 27.60(a).
(b) Bluefin tuna - The special limit for bluefin tuna is 2, which may be taken or possessed in addition to the overall general daily bag limit of 20 finfish specified in subsection 27.60(a). This limit applies to all bluefin tuna possessed, regardless of where taken.
(c) There is no limit on skipjack tuna.
(d) For yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and other tunas not listed above, the limit is 10. Unlike albacore and bluefin tuna, fish taken under this limit shall apply toward the overall general daily bag limit of 20 finfish specified in sub-section 27.60(a).
28.40. Broadbill Swordfish.
(a) Limit: Two.
28.41. Sixgill Shark, Sevengill Shark. Limit: One of each species.
28.42. Shortfin Mako Shark, Thresher Shark, and Blue Shark. Limit: Two of each species.
28.45. Surf Smelt (Night Smelt, Day Fish, Whitebait Smelt).
(a) Limit: Twenty-five pounds in combination.
28.47. Petrale Sole and Starry Flounder. Petrale sole and starry flounder are federal groundfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a), and are subject to special regulations as follows. Regulations of this section do not apply to other species of flounders or sole.
(a) Open year-round in all depths.
(b) Limit: There is no limit on petrale sole or starry flounder.
(c) Fishing rules for petrale sole and starry flounder may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.48. Pacific Sanddab, Rock Sole, Sand Sole, Butter Sole, Curlfin Sole, Rex Sole, and Flathead Sole. Pacific sanddab, rock sole, sand sole, butter sole, curlfin sole, rex sole, and flathead sole are federal groundfish, also known in the aggregate as “other flatfish” pursuant to subsection 1.91(a)(10) and are subject to special regulations as follows. Regulations of this section do not apply to other species of sanddabs, flounders, or sole.
(a) Open year-round in all depths.
(b) Limit: There is no limit on Pacific sanddab. The general bag limit of not more than 20 finfish in combination of all species with not more than 10 of any one species applies to rock sole, sand sole, butter sole, curlfin sole, rex sole, and flathead sole.
(c) Fishing rules for Pacific sanddab, rock sole, sand sole, butter sole, curlfin sole, rex sole, and flathead sole may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.49. Soupfin Shark, Dover Sole, English Sole, Arrowtooth Flounder, Spiny Dogfish, Skates, Ratfish, Grenadiers, Finescale Codling, Pacific Cod, Pacific Whiting, Sablefish and Thornyheads. Soupfin shark, Dover sole, English sole, arrowtooth flounder, spiny dogfish, all skates, ratfish, all grenadiers, finescale codling, Pacific cod, Pacific whiting, sablefish, longspine thornyhead, and shortspine thornyhead are federal groundfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a), and are subject to special regulations as follows. Regulations of this section do not apply to other species of flounders, sole, sharks, or codlings unless otherwise specified.
(a) Open year-round in all depths, except in the Cowcod Conservation Areas where these species may not be taken or possessed at any time or depth, except for transit as provided in subsection 27.20(b)(1)(A). See section 27.50.
(b) Limit:
(1) The limit on soupfin shark is one fish.
(2) The general bag limit of not more than 20 finfish in combination of all species with not more than 10 of any one species applies to Dover sole, English sole, arrowtooth flounder, spiny dogfish, all skates, ratfish, all grenadiers, finescale codling, Pacific cod, Pacific whiting, sablefish, longspine thornyhead and shortspine thornyhead.
(c) Method of take: When angling, gear is restricted to not more than two hooks and one line. For purposes of this section, a hook is a single hook, or a double or treble hook with multiple points connected to a common shank.
(d) Fishing rules for soupfin shark, Dover sole, English sole, arrowtooth flounder, spiny dogfish, all skates, ratfish, all grenadiers, finescale codling, Pacific cod, Pacific whiting, sablefish, longspine thornyhead and shortspine thornyhead may be changed during the year or in-season by the department
28.50. Marlin.
(a) Limit: One.
28.54. California Scorpionfish (Sculpin).
(a) Open year-round in all depths.
(b) Limit: Five.
(c) Minimum size: 10 inches total length. See subsection 27.65(b) for fillet size limit.
(d) Method of take: When angling, gear is restricted to not more than two hooks and one line. For purposes of this section, a hook is a single hook, or double or treble hook with multiple points connected to a common shank.
(e) Fishing rules for California scorpionfish may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.55. Rockfish (Sebastes).
(a) Open areas, seasons, and depth constraints: See Section 27.20 through Section 27.50 for definitions, special closure areas, and exceptions. Take and/or possession is authorized as follows:
(1) Northern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.25.
(2) Mendocino Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.30.
(3) San Francisco Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.35.
(4) Central Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.40.
(5) Southern Groundfish Management Area: Open and closed dates and depth constraints as defined by Section 27.45.
(6) Cowcod Conservation Areas: Open and closed dates and depths constraints as defined by Section 27.50. Only Nearshore Rockfish, and Shelf Rockfish, as defined in subsections 1.91(a)(1) and 1.91(a)(3), may be taken and possessed, except as provided below in subsection (b)(1).
(b) Limit: Ten, within the Rockfish, Cabezon, and Greenling complex (RCG complex, as defined in Section 1.91) limit of 10 fish, in any combination of species, except as provided below.
(1) The limit on bronzespotted rockfish, cowcod, and yelloweye rockfish is zero. These species shall not be taken or possessed as part of the RCG limit.
(2) The limit on vermilion rockfish is four fish, within the RCG bag limit.
(3) The limit on quillback rockfish is one fish, within the RCG bag limit.
(4) The limit on copper rockfish is one fish, within the RCG bag limit.
(5) In the Cowcod Conservation Areas (see Section 27.50), the limit on slope rockfish, as defined in subsection 1.91(a)(4), is zero. These species shall not be taken or possessed as part of the RCG limit in the Cowcod Conservation Areas.
(c) Size limit: None. See subsection 27.65(b) for fillet regulations.
(d) Method of take: When angling, gear is restricted to not more than two hooks and one line. For purposes of this section, a hook is a single hook, or a double or treble hook with multiple points connected to a common shank.
(e) Fishing rules for rockfish may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.56. Leopard Shark.
(a) Open year-round in all depths, except in the Cowcod Conservation Areas where leopard shark may not be taken or possessed at any time or depth except for transit as provided in subsection 27.20(b)(1)(A). See Section 27.50.
(b) Limit: Three.
(c) Minimum size: 36 inches total length. See subsection 27.65(b) for fillet regulations.
(d) Fishing rules for leopard shark may be changed during the year or in-season by the department under the authority of subsection 27.20(e). See subsection 27.20(f) for additional information.
28.58. Ocean Whitefish.
(a) Open year-round in all depths.
(b) Limit: The general bag limit of not more than 20 finfish in combination of all species with not more than 10 of any one species applies to ocean whitefish. See subsection 27.65(b) for fillet size limit.
28.59. Surfperch.
(a) For the purposes of this section, the term “surfperch” refers to all species of the family Embiotocidae, in any combination.
(b) Open Season: Open all year, except surfperch may not be taken or possessed by a person in San Francisco Bay and San Pablo Bay between April 1 and July 31, inclusive. Shiner surfperch (Cymatogaster aggregata) are exempt from this seasonal closure and may be taken and possessed up to their daily bag limit in these areas during the closure period.
(c) Daily bag limits:
(1) In San Francisco Bay and San Pablo Bay, the aggregate limit is five surfperch, not including shiner surfperch. For all other areas, the aggregate limit is 20 surfperch, not including shiner surfperch. Not more than 10 surfperch may be of any one species.
(2) The special limit for shiner surfperch is 20, which may be taken or possessed in addition to the overall daily bag limit of 20 finfish specified in sub-section 27.60(a).
(d) Minimum size: redtail surfperch, ten and one-half inches total length. All other surfperch: none.
28.60. Herring Eggs.
(a) Limit: Twenty-five pounds (including plants) wet weight of Pacific herring eggs may be taken per day for recreational purposes.
28.62. Pacific Herring Bag Limit.
Limit: Ten (10) gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day for recreational purposes.
Gear Restrictions
28.65. General. Except as provided in this article, fin fish may be taken only on hook-and-line or by hand. Any number of hooks and lines may be used in all ocean waters and bays except:
(a) San Francisco Bay, as described in Section 27.00, where only one line with not more than three hooks may be used.
(b) On public piers, no person shall use more than two rods and lines, two hand lines, or two nets, traps or other appliances used to take crabs.
(c) When rockfish (genus Sebastes), California scorpionfish (Scorpaena guttata), lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus), cabezon (Scorpaenichthys marmoratus), kelp or rock greenlings (Hexagrammos decagrammus and Hexagrammos lagocephalus), or species listed in Section 28.49 are aboard or in possession, only one line with not more than two hooks may be used pursuant to Sections 28.55, 28.27, 28.28, 28.29, or 28.49 respectively.
(d) No gaff hook shall be used to take or assist in landing any finfish shorter than the minimum size limit. For the purpose of this section a gaff hook is any hook with or without a handle used to assist in landing fish or to take fish in such a manner that the fish does not take the hook voluntarily in its mouth. No person shall take finfish from any boat or other floating device in ocean waters without having a landing net in possession or available for immediate use to assist in landing undersize fish of species having minimum size limits; the opening of any such landing net shall be not less than eighteen inches in diameter.
(e) North of Point Conception (34°27’00” N. lat.), where only one rod and line may be used by each angler fishing for salmon, or fishing from any boat or floating device with salmon on board.
(f) Mousetrap gear prohibited: It is unlawful to use, assist in using, or to possess aboard any vessel, hook-and-line gear commonly termed “mouse traps” constructed of a hook(s) or lure(s), attached to one end of a line that is attached to a float, or floats at the other end, and that when fished, is not attached directly to a person or vessel. Possession of such gear aboard a vessel shall be prima facie evidence that the gear is being used in violation of this regulation.
(g) North of Point Conception to Horse Mountain, subsection 27.80(a)(3) applies to each angler fishing for salmon or fishing from any boat or floating device with salmon on board.
28.70. Weight, Power Driven Gurdies or Power Driven Winches.
(a) No sinker or weight weighing more than four pounds, nor any power-driven gurdy or power-driven winch, may be used in any ocean waters or saltwater bays north of Point Arguello. This regulation does not apply to:
(1) Power gurdies or power winches used solely for handling crab nets or traps;
(2) The use of downriggers where the downrigger line is not used as a fishing line but is attached to the fishing line by a breakaway line; or
(3) The use of electric fishing reels manufactured for sport fishing use.
28.75. Baited Traps for Shiner Surfperch, Pacific Staghorn Sculpin and Longjaw Mud Suckers. In San Francisco and San Pablo bays and their saltwater tributaries, and in the open ocean and the contiguous bays of Mendocino, Sonoma and Marin counties, traps not over three feet in greatest dimension may be used to take shiner surfperch, Pacific staghorn sculpin and longjaw mudsuckers. Any other species taken shall be returned to the water immediately.
28.80. Dip Nets and Hawaiian Type Throw Nets. Dip nets of any size and baited hoop nets not greater than 36 inches in diameter may be used to take herring, Pacific staghorn sculpin, shiner surfperch, surf smelt, topsmelt, anchovies, shrimp and squid. Hawaiian type throw nets may be used north of Point Conception to take such species.
28.85. Beach Nets. Beach nets not over 20 feet in length with meshes at least 7/8 of an inch in length may be used to take surf smelt north of Point Conception.
28.90. Diving, Spearfishing. Persons who are floating or swimming in the water may use spearfishing gear and skin or SCUBA diving equipment to take fin fish other than giant (black) sea bass, garibaldi, gulf grouper, broomtail grouper, trout, salmon, or broadbill [swordfish], except that:
(a) No person may possess or use a spear within 100 yards of the mouth of any stream in any ocean waters north of Ventura County.
(b) When spearfishing for or in possession of federal groundfish species or all greenlings of the genus Hexagrammos as authorized pursuant to subsection 27.20(b)(1)(D), in an area or during a season closed to the take of these species, no fishing gear except spearfishing gear may be aboard the vessel or watercraft.
28.91. Slurp Guns. Slurp guns may be used to take finfish except that bag and possession limits shall not be exceeded wherever they apply and no species of finfish may be taken for which a minimum size limit has been established (see Sections 27.60 and 28.00-28.55).
28.95. Spears, Harpoons and Bow and Arrow Fishing Tackle. Spears, harpoons and bow and arrow fishing tackle may be used for taking all varieties of skates, rays, and sharks, except white sharks. Harpoons may be used to assist in taking Pacific halibut as specified in Section 28.20. Such gear may not be possessed or used within 100 yards of the mouth of any stream in any ocean waters north of Ventura County, nor aboard any vessel on any day or on any trip when broadbill swordfish or marlin have been taken. Bow and arrow fishing tackle may be used to take finfish other than giant (black) sea bass, garibaldi, gulf grouper, broomtail grouper, trout, salmon, broadbill [swordfish] and white shark.
29.00. Gear Used in Taking Grunion. No appliances of any kind may be used to take grunion, and no holes may be dug in the beach to entrap them.