Saltwater · Central
Bass - Kelp
Ocean regulations can change in-season. Confirm with the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide and CDFW before you fish.
Species group
BASS
Season
Open year around
Season notes
brown yellow orange spots
Depth limit
No depth limit
Daily bag limit
5 in any combination of species (kelp bass, barred sand bass, and spotted sand bass) per person
Minimum size
14 inches total length or 10 inches alternate length.
Gear restrictions
May be taken only on hook-and-line or by hand. Any number of hooks and lines may be used
Identification
Its third and fourth dorsal spines are of equal length, and are approximately twice the length of the second dorsal spine. The upper part of the head is brownish-olive with random yellow spots, and the upper back is mottled with characteristic white blotches on a brown background. The fins have a yellowish coloration. Breeding males have an orange-colored chin.