Can I Keep? Open the app

Pacific Herring Regulations in California (2026)

Clupea pallasi

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

Limits differ by area — the summary below is the first published rule; see every rule underneath.

Bag limit
Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately…
Season
The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open…

Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date

Recreational Pacific Herring rules in California

Where
Northern Management Area
Bag limit
Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately 100 lb. or 520 fish).
Season
The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open year-round.

Official source

Where
Mendocino Management Area
Bag limit
Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately 100 lb. or 520 fish).
Season
The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open year-round.

Official source

Where
San Francisco Management Area
Bag limit
Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately 100 lb. or 520 fish).
Season
The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open year-round.

Official source

Where
Central Management Area
Bag limit
Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately 100 lb. or 520 fish).
Season
The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open year-round.

Official source

Where
Southern Management Area
Bag limit
Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately 100 lb. or 520 fish).
Season
The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open year-round.

Official source

Where
San Francisco Bay District (bays & inshore)
Bag limit
Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately 100 lb. or 520 fish).
Season
The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open year-round.

Official source

Quick answers

How many pacific herring can I keep in California?

Ten gallons of Pacific herring may be taken per day (approximately 100 lb. or 520 fish). (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).

When is pacific herring season in California?

The recreational fishery for Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) is open year-round.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.

More offshore & pelagic 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.