Saltwater · Northern
Shark - Leopard
Ocean regulations can change in-season. Confirm with the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide and CDFW before you fish.
Species group
SHARK
Season
Open: May 1 - Oct 31, and Nov 1 - Dec 31 Closed: Jan 1 - Apr 30 (Open year - round within Humboldt Bay)
Season notes
grey black spots
Depth limit
May 1- Oct 31: Take is prohibited seaward of the 30 fathom depth contour (180 feet) Nov 1-Dec 31: May be taken at any depth (No depth limit within Humboldt Bay)
Daily bag limit
3 fish per person
Minimum size
36 inches total length.
Gear restrictions
May be taken only on hook-and-line or by hand. Any number of hooks and lines may be used
Identification
Color: Grey with black spots and crossbars; belly lighter. Abundant in central and southern California, and caught largely in bays, off jetties, along sandy beaches most of the year. Caught in large numbers in San Francisco Bay in the fall.