Saltwater · San Francisco

Scorpionfish - California

Ocean regulations can change in-season. Confirm with the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide and CDFW before you fish.

Species group

SCORPIONFISH

Season

Open: Apr 15 - Aug 31 Closed: Jan 1 - April 14, and September 1 - December 31

Season notes

brown spots

Depth limit

Take is prohibited seaward of the 40 fathom depth contour (240 feet)

Daily bag limit

5 fish per person

Minimum size

10 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

This fish reaches up to 43 to 47 centimeters long. It is reddish brown in color with many brown and black spots, especially on the fins. The head is spiny. It does not have a swim bladder; it spends most of its time on the ocean floor.