Saltwater · Mendocino
Bass - Giant Black
Take is prohibited / do not catch this species in this area context.
Ocean regulations can change in-season. Confirm with the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide and CDFW before you fish.
Species group
BASS
Season
Take is prohibited
Depth limit
Take is prohibited
Daily bag limit
Take is prohibited
Minimum size
Take is prohibited
Gear restrictions
The retention of giant black sea bass is PROHIBITED in all California ocean fisheries
Identification
The body of the adult giant sea bass is elongate, with dorsal spines that fit into a groove on the back. The head is robust, and mouth is large with teeth in the back. Giant sea bass are usually reddish brown to dark brown in color on all but their stomachs and, at times, many have dark spots on their sides. Perch-like in appearance, juvenile giant sea bass differ radically from adults and are often mistaken for a different fish. Coloring on juveniles is distinct with the body being sandy red with white and dark patches spread along the sides.