Includes a portion of Santa Barbara County, and all of Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties
See California ocean sport fishing regulations for complete information, including regulations for species not covered here.
Lobster season in California is a highly anticipated event for many recreational fishermen. With its tasty and coveted crustaceans, lobster fishing brings thrill and joy to those who participate. However, the season is relatively short and knowing when it concludes is key. In this article, we’ll break down the details on when lobster season ends in California and provide some additional context around regulations, limits, and more.
Overview of Recreational Lobster Season in California
The recreational lobster season in California begins annually on the Saturday preceding the first Wednesday in October. For example, in 2023 the season opened on September 30th.
The season lasts for about 5 and a half months closing on the first Wednesday after the 15th of March. In 2023 the season will close on March 15th.
During this period, recreational fishermen are permitted to catch California spiny lobsters using hoop nets or by hand when free diving or scuba diving. The daily bag limit per person is 7 lobsters, with a minimum size of 3 1/4 inches measured along the midline of the back.
A report card is required for lobster fishing, which must be filled out with details on catch location and numbers. Reporting data helps wildlife officials manage the health of lobster populations.
Why Does the Season End in March?
The season closes in March primarily to protect female lobsters carrying eggs. As spring approaches, lobsters migrate into shallow, warmer waters near shore to reproduce. Ending the take of lobsters in mid-March allows the bulk of the females to spawn without disruption.
Studies have shown the vast majority of lobsters have finished spawning by the time the season closes. This protects future populations and prevents overfishing.
Closing the season also prevents disturbance of lobsters in their critical shallow breeding grounds. The closure coincides with peak spawning season, allowing populations to regenerate in a protected manner.
Are There Any Extensions or Exceptions?
The season end date of the first Wednesday after March 15th is strictly enforced statewide with no extensions. All recreational lobster fishing must cease at midnight on that day.
There are also no regional exceptions based on lobster populations or breeding cycles. The season end is synchronized across all California waters.
However, commercial lobster fishing does have some differences and may continue in certain areas per regulations. Recreational rules do not apply to commercial lobster fishing.
Changes for the 2023-2024 Season
For the upcoming 2023-2024 season, there are a few regulation changes recreational lobster fishermen should be aware of:
- The season will open a week earlier, on September 23rd instead of September 30th.
- The minimum size limit will be increased from 3 1/4 inches to 3.25 inches.
- A new ban on using round haul nets, entangling nets, or trammel nets to take lobster.
Aside from these updates, the season length and end date will remain unchanged. The 2023-2024 season is still set to close on the first Wednesday after March 15th.
Checking Season Dates Before Heading Out
Lobster season end dates can vary slightly year to year, so it’s always smart to check the official California regulations before making plans. The CDFW website provides up-to-date rules on exact season opening and closing dates for each year.
Regulations on minimum size, bag limits, and legal fishing gear can also change annually. Checking the official guidelines will ensure you have the latest information before lobster fishing. A ranger check on your catch could lead to citations and fines if not following the newest regulations.
With a little preparation and research ahead of time, you can fully enjoy lobster season and avoid any issues due to rule changes. Be sure to note the opening and closing days on your calendar each year as you get ready for another exciting lobster fishing season along the California coast.
Closed Fishing Seasons
Los Angeles grunion (Leuresthes tenuis) fishing for fun has been shut down since April 1. It will reopen on July 1, 2024. For more information, visit the CDFW California Grunion web page.
Mussels
NOTE: The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued its annual quarantine on the collection of mussels (opens in new tab) intended for human consumption. The quarantine is usually in effect from May 1 through October 31 each year. For the latest advisory information, call CDPHs toll-free Shellfish Information Line at (800) 553-4133 or check CDPHs recreational bivalve shellfish advisory interactive map(opens in new tab).
There is no set end date for the recreational season for California sea mussel (Mytilus californianus) and bay mussel (Mytilus trossulus). Currently, mussels should only be collected for non-consumptive uses (for example, fish bait). The daily limit for both bagged and owned California sea mussels and bay mussels is 10 pounds (in the shell).
Keep in mind that the California Department of Public Health keeps an eye on mussels and quarantines them once a year to make sure that no one gets paralytic shellfish poisoning or domoic acid poisoning. However, warnings can be sent out at any time telling people not to eat shellfish they caught for fun. The annual quarantine is usually in place from May to October, and it only affects mussels caught for sport that are meant to be eaten by humans. You can call CDPH’s toll-free Shellfish Information Line at (800) 553-4133 or look at CDPH’s recreational bivalve shellfish advisory interactive map to get the most up-to-date information on warnings, advisories, and quarantines related to naturally occurring shellfish toxins. You can also review CDFWs Finfish and Shellfish Health Advisories page.
California lobster season coming to a end
When is California spiny lobster season?
The California spiny lobster season is upon us! Historically, the season opens on Saturday at 6 a.m. before the first Wednesday in October; this year, that falls on September 29 and closes on March 22, 2024. Lobster cards, which cost $11.62 and are due by April 30, 2023… more information is below.)
When does lobster season open & close in San Diego?
Historically, the season opens on Saturday at 6 a.m. before the first Wednesday in October; this year, that falls on September 29 and closes on March 22, 2024. Lobster cards, which cost $11.62 and are due by April 30, 2023… more information is below.) Though I have never fished lobster, I know where they hang out in San Diego.
What time does lobster season open & close?
Recreational lobster season opens at 6:00 p.m. on the Friday preceding the first Wednesday in October and closes at 11:59:59 p.m. on the first Wednesday after the 15th of March. Recreational Bag and Possession Limit: Seven lobsters per person.
Are California spiny lobsters back?
California Spiny Lobsters are back! Available from October–March, these special lobsters are an all-time favorite for seafood lovers. The Spiny Lobster has a sweeter flavor profile than its counterpart, the Maine Lobster. It also has more meat — generally around 25% more per pound.