Rockfish & Lingcod fishing charters in Long Beach, CA

Long Beach sits behind a nine-mile breakwater on the Southern California coast, with Catalina Island visible offshore. Its sportfishing landings run everything from half-day trips along the coast to full days at Catalina.

Coastal fishing

Half-day and three-quarter-day boats work the breakwater, kelp beds and reefs for calico bass, sand bass, barracuda, bonito, rockfish and sculpin, plus California halibut on the sandy bottom. Summer is when sand bass gather to spawn and the action can be fast.

Catalina Island

Longer trips cross to Catalina for yellowtail, white seabass, calico bass and, in warm years, tuna. The island’s kelp forests and clear water make it a favorite for experienced anglers.

Choosing a trip

Open-party boats sell spots per person and include rods and bait — an easy way for families and beginners to fish. Private charters let a group choose the target and the pace.

Good to know

California requires every angler to have a fishing license — the landings sell one-day licenses. Rockfish and other groundfish seasons are set by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and change from year to year.