Saltwater Species Guide

California Yellowtail

Seriola dorsalis

A hard-fighting Southern California jack associated with kelp, islands, and offshore banks.

Also Known As:California yellowtailKingfish

California yellowtail identification image — A. R. McCulloch · Public domain · Image Source

Species Quick Facts

Common Angling Water

64–72°F

Approximate productive range, not a biological limit.

Typical Catch

Roughly 10–30 pounds is common in the sport fishery

Maximum Reported Size

About 6 feet and more than 90 pounds

Best Baits & Lures

Best Baits

Sardine
Mackerel
Squid

Best Lures

Surface iron
Yo-yo jigs
Stickbaits

Habitat

Kelp edges, reefs, offshore islands, banks, and current-swept structure around bait.

How To Catch California Yellowtail

Fly-line a lively bait or cast iron past working birds and kelp edges. Apply pressure early to keep hooked fish away from kelp and reef structure.

Technique Is Not A Regulation

Confirm the open season, area, harvest status, size and possession limits, required gear, permits, reporting rules, and emergency closures for the exact jurisdiction and trip date. Some listed baits or methods may be restricted locally.

TideAhead Destinations

Harbor Guides For California Yellowtail

Los Angeles & Long Beach

A harbor-to-offshore fishery spanning breakwaters, kelp, Catalina, and bluewater banks.

Open Harbor Guide CA

San Diego

A year-round sport-fishing hub with bay, kelp, island, and long-range bluewater options.

Open Harbor Guide CA

Santa Barbara & Channel Islands

Harbor, beach, kelp, island, and offshore fishing in the Santa Barbara Channel.

Open Harbor Guide CA

Newport Beach & Newport Bay

A Southern California launch for bay bass, halibut, kelp, islands, and offshore tuna.

Open Harbor Guide

Species Sources

TideAhead summarizes stable identification, biology, habitat, and angling concepts. Use the primary sources below for deeper species context and live management information.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife ocean resources