Fishing in California: First-Trip Checklist
The basics for your first trip in California, with links to the official sources.
1. License
- 16 or older? You need a California sport fishing license. Under 16 fishes free.
- Resident annual license: $64.54
Buy or read more: California Department of Fish and Wildlife
2. Fishing rules
All current rules: wildlife.ca.gov/Regulations
3. Free fishing days
Official dates: CDFW Free Fishing Days
4. Eating your catch
Before you keep fish to eat, check OEHHA fish advisories for your lake or river. Catch & release is a great choice with kids.
5. Boating & life jackets
Official info coming soon · check California Department of Fish and Wildlife
6. Where to fish
Spots coming soon. We only list spots we can confirm on an official page.