Gear & Tackle

Jacks

Yellowtail Fishing in California

California yellowtail are hard-pulling jacks of Southern California islands, kelp, and offshore banks.

Waters
2
State
California
Water
Saltwater
Methods
Spin & Bait

Best Months in California: May to Oct

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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 Yellowtail

Month

2 picks for October.

  • Metal Jig 1/2 to 3 oz

    Lure

    Jig · Surface and yo-yo iron.

    Shop This Lure

  • Squid Strip

    Bait

    Natural Bait · Live squid.

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Rod & Reel

Yellowtail Setup

Spin / Cast

7.5 to 8 ft heavy casting rod, 30 to 40 lb line, iron jigs or live bait.

California

Where to Catch Yellowtail

2 of 2 waters

Saltwater & Coast · California

Catalina Island

About 22 miles off the LA coast. Rockfish, calico bass, and yellowtail from banks and pinnacles.

Rockfish · Calico Bass · Yellowtail

Saltwater & Coast · California

Point Loma Kelp Beds

Kelp beds off Point Loma in San Diego County, which state biologists name as a kelp bass (calico bass) fishing area.

Calico Bass · Yellowtail

California

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