California Spearfishing Locations: A Local’s Guide to the Best Underwater Hunting Spots

Hello there, underwater enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, the moment you slip beneath the surface with your speargun in hand, everything else just melts away. I’ve been diving the California coastline for over 15 years now, and let me tell you we’re blessed with some of the most incredible California spearfishing locations you could ask for.

From the chilly, kelp-rich waters of Northern California to the vibrant reefs of SoCal, this state is a spearo’s paradise waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re a newbie still figuring out how to load your gun without hurting yourself (we’ve all been there!) or a seasoned hunter looking for fresh spots, I’ve got you covered with this local’s guide to the best California spearfishing locations. So grab your wetsuit and let’s dive in!

Understanding California Waters for Spearfishing 🌊

Before we jump into specific California spearfishing locations, let’s chat about what makes these waters so special. The Golden State’s 840 miles of coastline pass through multiple climate zones, creating wonderfully diverse underwater environments. 

I’m not exaggerating when I say it is just this diversity that makes California a world-class destination for underwater hunters.

The California Current System 🌡️

One thing that shapes our California spearfishing spots is the California Current cold water flowing south from Alaska that creates upwelling areas rich in nutrients. This current is why Northern California waters hover around 50-55°F year-round (yeah, you’re gonna want that 7mm wetsuit!), while Southern California enjoys a more comfortable 60-70°F.

This temperature gradient affects everything from visibility to the type of fish you’ll be hunting. The cold, nutrient-rich waters up north support massive kelp forests teeming with rockfish and lingcod, while the warmer southern waters attract yellowtail, white seabass, and even the occasional dorado during El Niño years.

Underwater Topography 🏔️

California’s underwater landscape is just as dramatic as its above-water counterparts. We’re talking about:

• 📍 Kelp forests that create underwater cathedrals
• 📍 Rocky reefs that serve as fish highways
• 📍 Deep submarine canyons that attract pelagic species
• 📍 Sandy bottoms that hide halibut and other flatfish

Understanding this topography is key to finding productive spearfishing areas in California. Fish will also be present near structure, so learning how to read the underwater landscape will significantly increase your success rate.

Northern California Spearfishing Hotspots 🌲

Northern California offers some of the most challenging yet rewarding California spearfishing locations. The water is colder, conditions can be rougher, but man, the fish are bigger and less pressured. Here are my top picks:

Fort Bragg & Mendocino

Fort Bragg’s rugged coastline harbors some incredible Northern California spearfishing spots. The area around Van Damme State Park contains massive kelp forests where trophy lingcod and cabezon live. Just be prepared for chilly waters (rarely above 55°F) and potentially rough conditions.

For the abalone hunters (during open seasons), this area used to be the holy grail. While recreational abalone hunting is currently closed to help populations recover, the same spots are excellent for hunting other species. Take a look at what gear is truly essential before heading to these challenging waters.

Sonoma Coast 🐟

The stretch between Bodega Bay and Salt Point offers some epic California spearfishing locations if you can handle the conditions. Salt Point State Park is a favorite, with big kelp beds and rocky outcroppings.

Pro tip: The north coast is notorious for shark encounters. Always use a fish stringer that can be quickly detached, and consider maintaining your gear with shark-deterrent colors. So, safety first, my friends!

Point Reyes & Tomales Bay Area

Just north of San Francisco, Point Reyes offers diverse spearfishing territories in California. The protected waters of Tomales Bay are great for beginners looking for halibut and striped bass, while the ocean side has more challenging conditions but bigger rewards.

For real, check the weather and tides religiously before heading out here. The site has infamous currents and fog that can roll in quickly. I once got caught in a sudden visibility drop and had to navigate back to shore solely by compass not an experience I’d recommend to anyone!

Central California Diving Territories 🏄‍♂️

Central California represents a transition zone where northern and southern species overlap, creating some of the most diverse California spearfishing locations. The visibility improves compared to NorCal, and the water gets a touch warmer.

Monterey Bay

Monterey Bay is the crown jewel of central California spearfishing locations. The protected waters of the bay offer excellent conditions for beginners, while sites like Point Lobos (when open to spearfishing) challenge even veterans.

My favorite spot? Honestly, it’s Lover’s Point in Pacific Grove. When conditions align—typically fall mornings with minimal swell the visibility can exceed 30 feet, and you’ll find yourself hunting among schools of blue rockfish and the occasional lingcod lurking in the kelp.

1. Breakwater Cove: Perfect for beginners with easy entry/exit and decent fish populations
2. Coral Street: Great intermediate spot with diverse terrain
3. Carmel River State Beach: Sandy entries leading to beautiful kelp forests

Monterey is also home to the annual Monterey Bay Spearfishing Tournament, which brings together some of the best spearos on the West Coast. If you want to see the pros in action or compete yourself, this is the event to check out!

Big Sur Coastline

The Big Sur coast offers some of the most spectacular spearfishing spots in California, but access is challenging. Many locations require hikes down cliffs, but those willing to make the effort are rewarded with pristine waters and less fishing pressure.

Sand Dollar Beach and Jade Cove are two accessible areas which are good when the weather cooperates. Just remember that cell service is virtually non-existent along much of this coastline, so proper planning and safety precautions are essential. I always bring a buddy when diving Big Sur—this isn’t the place to push your solo diving limits.

Morro Bay & San Luis Obispo

The waters around Morro Bay offer a perfect balance of accessibility and quality California spearfishing locations. Spots like Montaña de Oro State Park feature dramatic underwater topography and healthy fish populations.

One particularly productive area is the stretch between Cayucos and Cambria, where the rocky coastline creates perfect habitat for rockfish and lingcod. If you’re planning to visit, check out my guide on traveling with spearguns to make sure your gear arrives safely.

Southern California’s Premier Underwater Hunting Grounds 🏝️

SoCal offers the most comfortable California spearfishing locations in terms of water temperature and conditions. The trade-off? More fishing pressure and sometimes smaller fish. But with the right knowledge, you can still find epic hunting.

Santa Barbara Channel

The Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary contains some of the best spearfishing regions in California, though regulations limit where you can hunt. The mainland coast from Gaviota to Rincon offers excellent shore diving with a mix of kelp forests and rocky reefs.

For boat divers, the backside of Santa Cruz Island is legendary for its white seabass population during spring and early summer. I’ve seen fish over 60 pounds taken here, though it takes patience and experience to score these trophy fish. Check regulations carefully, as many areas within the sanctuary are no-take zones.

Los Angeles County

Despite being surrounded by millions of people, LA County has surprisingly good California spearfishing locations. Palos Verdes Peninsula is the cream of the crops, and areas like Lunada Bay and Abalone Cove offer first-rate hunting for sheephead and calico bass.

Catalina Island, just a boat ride away, is another top spot. The west end of the island typically has better visibility and bigger fish. White seabass make seasonal appearances, and yellowtail can be found during summer months. If you’re new to boat diving, consider joining one of the many beginner-friendly charters that operate from San Pedro and Long Beach.

Orange County & San Diego

The southernmost California spearfishing locations offer the warmest water temperatures in the state, sometimes reaching the low 70s in late summer. La Jolla Cove in San Diego is perhaps the most famous shore diving spot, with easy access and diverse marine life.

Laguna Beach in Orange County features a network of protected coves that are perfect for beginners. Shaw’s Cove is my go-to recommendation for those just getting started protected conditions, easy entry/exit, and enough fish to make it worthwhile.

For those willing to boat out, the Coronado Islands (in Mexican waters—remember your passport and Mexican fishing license!) offer world-class hunting for yellowtail and other pelagic species during summer months.

California’s Offshore Islands: The Spearfishing Dream🏝️

If you want to experience the best California spearfishing locations, you need to get offshore to the islands. These spots require more planning and typically a boat, but they offer the most pristine conditions and biggest fish.

Channel Islands 🐬

The eight Channel Islands off Southern California offer incredible spearfishing grounds in California, though many areas are now protected within marine reserves. The islands that allow spearfishing (in designated areas) include:

• Santa Cruz Island: Largest of the islands with diverse diving environments
• Santa Rosa Island: Known for excellent visibility and yellowtail
• San Miguel Island: Remote with epic conditions (when calm) and monster fish
• Anacapa Island: Closest to mainland with easy diving conditions

My most memorable dive ever was at Santa Cruz Island’s Yellowbanks during a rare calm day with 80+ feet of visibility. Hunting among swaying kelp forests with curious sea lions checking me out I still get goosebumps thinking about it.

Farallon Islands 🦈

For the truly adventurous, the Farallon Islands 30 miles west of San Francisco offer legendary California spearfishing locations. However, I’m going to be straight with you these islands are nicknamed “Devil’s Teeth” for good reason.

The Farallones are home to a healthy white shark population, cold water, and typically rough conditions. This is expert-only territory and frankly, I’ve only made the trip twice. The fishing can be incredible, with trophy lingcod and rockfish, but the risk factor is significant. If you’re considering it, join established charter operations with experienced captains.

If you ever get to go out to the islands, this Hawaii spearfishing guide has some good facts on what to expect out there.

But i was torn between the Atlantic and the Gulf for a vacation one time  this quick Gulf vs Atlantic spearfishing breakdown aided me in figuring out what was best for my style.

Seasonal Guide to California Spearfishing 🌞

Knowing when to hit specific California spearfishing locations is just as important as knowing where to go. The Golden State has distinct seasonal patterns that affect water clarity, fish behavior, and overall diving conditions.

Winter (December-February) ❄️

Winter brings storms and larger swells to much of the California coast, limiting dive opportunities. But between storm systems, you can have some wonderful conditions, especially in Southern California spearfishing spots.

Winter tip: The days following a storm often offer exceptional visibility in SoCal as the runoff is minimal compared to NorCal. I’ve had 50+ foot viz in Laguna Beach in January—it’s all about timing!

Spring (March-May)

Spring is a transition period when California spearfishing locations begin to shine again. Water clarity increases, and migratory species begin to show up.

This is peak time for white seabass in Southern California, especially near the Channel Islands. These ghostly fish trail the spawning squid, opening up short windows of phenomenal feeding. The spring upwelling also introduces nutrients, which stimulate the entire food chain.

In Central California, spring offers more consistent diving conditions, with kelp beginning its growth cycle. Northern California remains challenging but starts offering more diveable days as storm systems become less frequent.

Summer (June-August) ☀️

Summer provides the most accessible diving at most California spearfishing locations, with warmer water temperatures and generally calmer conditions. This is prime time for:

1. Yellowtail in Southern California and offshore islands
2. Rockfish across the entire coast
3. Halibut in sandy areas
4. Occasional bluefin tuna for offshore hunters

One challenge in summer is the marine layer that frequently blankets the coast, particularly in Central and Northern California. This fog can make shore navigation tricky, so always plan accordingly. If you wish to maximize your summer spearfishing adventure, check out these affordable spearfishing trip options.

Fall (September-November)

Fall is the insider’s secret for the best California spearfishing locations. The summer crowds thin out, water visibility often peaks (especially in Northern and Central California), and fish tend to be fatter as they prepare for winter.

In my experience, October is the single best month for diving in California. The summer’s marine layer typically dissipates, ocean conditions settle, and water clarity reaches its annual peak in many areas. This is also when the big migratory yellowtail make their last appearances before heading south for winter.

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California Spearfishing Regulations You Need to Know 📋

Before heading to any California spearfishing locations, you need to understand the regulations. California has some of the most rigorous marine resource management in the country, with a highly developed system of marine protected areas (MPAs), seasonal closures, and bag limits.

Licensing Requirements 📜

First things first: you need a valid California fishing license with an ocean enhancement stamp to legally spearfish in state waters. These can be purchased online through California Department of Fish and Wildlife website or at sporting goods stores.

For those under 16, you’re exempt from needing a license, but you still need to follow all other regulations. And if you’re targeting specific species like lobster, you’ll need additional report cards.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) 🚫

California has an extensive network of MPAs where spearfishing may be restricted or prohibited entirely. These protected California spearfishing areas fall into several categories:

• 🔴 State Marine Reserves (SMR): No take of any marine resource
• 🟠 State Marine Conservation Areas (SMCA): Limited take of specific species
• 🟢 State Marine Parks (SMP): Recreational take may be allowed, commercial prohibited

I highly recommend downloading the Fish Legal app or similar resource that shows MPA boundaries on your phone. Nothing ruins a day of spearfishing faster than realizing you’re in a protected area! Also, many beaches and coves have their local regulations, so always check before diving.

Bag and Size Limits

Each species has specific bag and size limits that vary by region within California spearfishing locations. Some key regulations to be aware of:

Remember that regulations change, so always check the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife Ocean Sport Fishing Regulations before your trip. Nothing’s worse than landing a personal best fish only to discover it’s out of season or undersized!

Essential Gear for California Waters

The diverse California spearfishing locations require equally diverse gear setups. What works in the balmy waters of San Diego might be completely inadequate for Fort Bragg. Here’s my region-specific gear guide:

Exposure Protection 🥶

California’s cold waters demand proper thermal protection. Here’s what I recommend by region for California spearfishing spots:

• Northern California: 7mm open-cell wetsuit with hood, gloves, and booties year-round
• Central California: 5-7mm in winter, 4-5mm in summer
• Southern California: 4-5mm in winter, 3-4mm in summer

For those diving NorCal regularly, a drysuit might be worth considering, though it limits freediving depth. I switched to a custom-fit open-cell 7mm for my NorCal adventures, and it’s been a game-changer for extending dive times in 50°F water.

If you’re not sure what exposure protection is most appropriate for you, have a look at my guide to spearfishing gear for every budget.

Spearguns for California Conditions

Your gun selection should match the spearfishing territories in California you plan to explore:

1. Kelp forest hunting (NorCal/Central): 90-110cm mid-handle guns for maneuverability
2. Blue water/offshore islands: 110-130cm guns for larger pelagics
3. Reef hunting (SoCal): 75-90cm guns for close-quarter shooting

I’m personally a fan of wooden guns for California diving. They provide natural buoyancy that resists the weight of a heavy wetsuit, and they’re quieter in the water an advantage when stalking skittish fish like white seabass.

For beginners, I recommend avoiding the common mistake of buying too powerful a gun. You can check out my article on common beginner gear mistakes to save yourself some headaches.

Safety Equipment ⚠️

California’s diverse California spearfishing locations present unique safety challenges. Never hit the water without:

• High-visibility float and flag (required by law)
• Dive knife (preferably two leg and arm mount)
• Whistle and surface signaling device
• Fish stringer with quick-release mechanism
• Dive watch/computer to track bottom time

For those exploring more remote spearfishing areas in California, I also strongly recommend:

• Personal locator beacon (PLB)
• Marine radio for boat divers
• First aid kit with hemostatic gauze

Safety isn’t just about gear it’s about practice. I make it a habit to do a safety drill at the start of each season, rehearsing gear drops, buddy assistance, and emergency ascents. These skills become automatic when practiced regularly.

Conservation and Ethical Spearfishing 🌿

As visitors to these amazing California spearfishing locations, we have a responsibility to protect them for future generations. Ethical spearfishing is not just about respecting laws it’s about being wise enough to make choices that minimize our impact.

Selective Harvesting

One of the greatest advantages of spearfishing over other fishing methods is selectivity. At California spearfishing spots, this means:

• Taking only what you’ll eat
• Targeting abundant species
• Selecting mid-sized fish (not the largest breeding specimens)
• Avoiding slow-growing, long-lived species when possible

I follow a personal rule: never take more than half of my legal limit unless I’m hosting a fish fry or sharing with multiple families. This self-imposed limitation has turned me into a more discerning hunter, where quality is preferred over quantity.

Habitat Protection

California’s underwater ecosystems are fragile, particularly in heavily trafficked California spearfishing locations. Practice these habits to minimize damage:

1. Perfect your buoyancy to avoid crashing into reefs
2. Never grab or pull on kelp stalks
3. Secure gear to prevent entanglement with marine life
4. Pack out all trash (and collect what others leave behind)

Responsible spearos should also stay informed about conservation challenges facing our oceans. Climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction all threaten the health of our California spearfishing locations.

Community Stewardship

The spearfishing community plays a significant role in protecting California spearfishing locations. Get involved by:

• Participating in underwater cleanup events
• Reporting poaching to CDFW’s CalTIP hotline (1-888-334-2258)
• Joining conservation organizations like the Coastal Conservation Association
• Educating others about sustainable practices

Consider joining local spearfishing clubs they’re often at the forefront of conservation efforts and can provide valuable mentorship. The friendships I’ve formed through these communities have not only made me a better spearo but also a better steward of our precious California spearfishing territories.

Conclusion: Your California Spearfishing Adventure Awaits

From the rugged kelp forests of Northern California to the vibrant reefs of San Diego, California spearfishing locations offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter seeking trophy fish or a beginner looking to catch your first dinner, the Golden State’s diverse underwater landscapes won’t disappoint.

Remember that the best spearfishing experiences come not just from landing big fish but from respecting the ocean, continuous learning, and sharing the joy with others. As you explore these California spearfishing spots, take time to absorb the beauty around you those quiet moments suspended in kelp forests or hovering over a vibrant reef are just as valuable as the fish you bring home.

Ready to dive into the best spearfishing regions in California? Read more of my guides on finding secret spearfishing spots and selecting the right gear. And if you’re ever in my neck of the woods, drop me a line I’m always happy to show fellow spearos my favorite local haunts!

Want to see some other places to explore throughout the country? This list of the best spearfishing spots in the U.S. might give you some suggestions.