California regulations
Lingcod Regulations in California 2026
California Lingcod regulations as of 2026-05-06: Daily bag 2 fish; Gear Not More Than Two Hooks And One Line; Min size 22 inches total length. Sourced from CDFW.
Rules (11)
California statewide
- Daily bag
- 2 fish/day
- Min size
- 22"
All
- Daily bag
- 2 fish
- Min size
- 22 inches total length
- Gear
- Not More Than Two Hooks And One Line
When angling
Central Groundfish Management AreaOpen
- Status
- Open
Groundfish Exclusion AreasClosed
- Status
- Closed
year-round
Mendocino Groundfish Management AreaOpen
- Status
- Open
Northern Groundfish Management AreaOpen
- Status
- Open
San Francisco Groundfish Management AreaOpen
- Status
- Open
Southern Groundfish Management AreaOpen
- Status
- Permitted
October 1 through December 31: authorized seaward of a line approximating the 50-fathom boundary line; prohibited shoreward of this line.
Frequently asked questions
When is Lingcod season in California?
Lingcod season in California is set by CDFW. Some zones may have specific open windows; see the rule table above.
What is the size limit for Lingcod in California?
Minimum size for Lingcod in California is 22 inches total length in All, per CDFW. Slot limits or maximum sizes may apply in some zones.
What is the daily bag limit for Lingcod in California?
Daily bag limit for Lingcod in California is 2 fish in All, per CDFW.
Official sources cited
Reference only. Regulations change frequently, often mid-season. Always verify with CDFW before keeping a catch. Last verified .