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Giant Sea Bass Regulations in California (2026)

Stereolepis gigas

Recreational giant sea bass rules in California saltwater, as published by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Last checked November 7, 2026.

Season
The recreational fishery for giant sea bass (Stereolepis gigas) is…

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Recreational Giant Sea Bass rules in California

Where
Southern Management Area
Season
The recreational fishery for giant sea bass (Stereolepis gigas) is closed year-round.

Official source

Commercial rules

Show 1 commercial rule
Where
Ocean
Bag limit
May not be taken except one fish per vessel may be possessed or sold if taken incidentally by gill or trammel nets. This restriction shall not apply to 1,000 pounds of giant sea bass per trip and 3,000 pounds of giant sea bass per vessel per calendar year taken south of the U.S.-Mexico boundary line (FGC §8380).
  • Listed under 'Prohibited Species' (may not be taken or possessed for commercial purposes) in the digest, with the incidental exception above.
  • License: Any resident 16 years of age or older who uses or operates, or assists in using or operating, any boat, aircraft, net, trap, line, or other appliance to take fish or amphibia for commercial purposes, or who causes to be brought ashore any fish or amphibia at any point in the state for the purpose of selling them in a fresh state, or who contributes materially to the activities on board a commercial fishing vessel is required to have a commercial fishing license. (FGC §7850).
  • Source: 2026 California Commercial Fishing Digest (CDFW); regulations may change in-season.

Official source

Quick answers

When is giant sea bass season in California?

The recreational fishery for giant sea bass (Stereolepis gigas) is closed year-round.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.

More reef fish in California

All California saltwater fishing regulations →

Source: California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Most anglers need a California saltwater license or registry: get one here.