Discover the fishing gear, techniques, and hotspots to master rockfishing in Southern California.
What Are Rockfish?
Rockfish are bottom-dwelling species found along the Pacific coast, found in a variety of colors and sizes. Popular species include vermilion rockfish, canary rockfish, and lingcod. These fish are fun to catch and delicious to eat, but always check local fishing regulations before heading out.
The Must-Have Fishing Gear
Having the right fishing equipment is key to a successful trip. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rods and Reels: Medium to medium-heavy rods paired with strong reels.
- Lines and Leaders: 30-65 lb braided line with a fluorocarbon leader for stealth.
- Hooks and Weights: Size 1/0 hooks and 4oz - 28 oz weights to reach the bottom.
Tackle and Rigs: The Secret Sauce
Using the right rig increases your chances of landing rockfish:
- Dropper Loop Rig: Keeps bait suspended off the bottom, perfect for rockfish.
- 2-Hook Rigs: Ready-to-Fish out of package rigs save you time.
Bait and Lures: What’s on the Menu?
Rockfish love both live and artificial baits:
- Live Bait: Squid, anchovies, mackerel, and sardines work wonders.
- Artificial Lures: Soft plastics and jigs mimic prey rockfish feed on.
Techniques: How to Catch Rockfish
Try these two techniques to increase your success:
- Bottom Bouncing: Let the weight or jig hit the bottom, then reel up 1-2 turns.
- Slow Pitch Jigging: Lift and drop your rod tip to create an enticing lure action.
Essential Tools: Rockfish Identification Chart & Descending Device
When targeting rockfish in Southern California, having the right gear is crucial—but so is responsible fishing. To stay compliant with regulations and help preserve rockfish populations, you’ll need two key items in your tackle bag:
Rockfish Identification Chart – California waters are home to a variety of rockfish species, and knowing what you’re reeling up is essential. Some species have strict regulations, while others may be prohibited from retention. A rockfish ID chart helps you quickly identify what’s legal to keep and what needs to go back. Keep one handy on your phone or laminated in your tackle box!
Descending Device (Mandatory in CA!) – By law, anglers targeting rockfish in California must have a descending device rigged and ready to use. These devices help release rockfish safely back to depth, reducing barotrauma and improving survival rates. Whether you use a SeaQualizer, Shelton Fish Descender, or homemade rig, make sure you know how to use it properly before heading out.
Local Hotspots: Where to Fish
Look for rocky bottoms, reefs, and underwater structures to find rockfish. Connect with local tackle shops for the latest hotspots.
Final Thoughts
Rockfishing in Southern California is an exciting adventure. With the right fishing supplies and techniques, you'll be reeling in rockfish in no time!
Watch This Rockfishing Guide
For a visual breakdown of rockfish gear and tackle, check out this video:
