Gear & Tackle

Flatfish

California Halibut Fishing in California

A large flatfish of Southern and Central California bays and beaches, caught drifting or casting swimbaits.

Waters
2
State
California
Water
Saltwater
Methods
Spin & Bait

Best Months in California: Mar to Aug

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F
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Licenses & Regulations

Most anglers need a California fishing license; age cutoffs and exemptions are set by the state. Seasons, limits, and tackle rules vary by water, so check current regulations before you go.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Plan by Month

Best Flies, Lures & Bait for California Halibut

Month

2 picks for October.

  • Paddle-Tail Swimbait 3 to 5 in

    Lure

    Soft Plastic

    Shop This Lure

  • Live Pinfish and Mullet 3 to 6 in

    Bait

    Live Bait · Live anchovies or sardines.

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Rod & Reel

California Halibut Setup

Spin / Cast

7 ft medium spinning or casting rod, 20 lb line, swimbaits or a live bait drift rig.

California

Where to Catch California Halibut

2 of 2 waters

Saltwater & Coast · California

Monterey Bay (Santa Cruz)

Northern Monterey Bay off Santa Cruz Harbor, where anglers fish for California halibut, salmon, and striped bass.

California Halibut · Striped Bass · Chinook Salmon

Saltwater & Coast · California

San Francisco Bay

Striped bass from piers, flats, and the gates, plus staghorn and halibut.

Striped Bass · Staghorn Sculpin · California Halibut

California

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