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Point Arena Today
By the People, for the People
California's Recreational Halibut Season Opens April 1
Anglers can look forward to a wide range of fishing opportunities as the season kicks off.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:22am
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As the recreational halibut season opens, California anglers look forward to a range of fishing opportunities on the state's coastal waters.Point Arena TodayThe 2026 recreational halibut season in California will open on April 1, running through November 15 in Northern California and December 31 in Southern California. The season aligns with the start of all-depth recreational boat-based groundfishing, offering anglers a variety of species to target.
Why it matters
The halibut quota helps ensure a sustainable fishery while still providing recreational access. The opening of the season marks the start of prime fishing conditions for a range of popular species, making it an eagerly anticipated event for California's angling community.
The details
For 2026, the halibut quota is set at 40,040 pounds, roughly in line with last year's allocation. The season will run through November 15 in Northern California (North of Point Arena) and through December 31 in Southern California (South of Point Arena), but could close earlier if the statewide quota is reached. The opening date of April 1 also aligns with the start of all-depth recreational boat-based groundfishing, allowing anglers to target species such as rockfish, lingcod, cabezon, and greenlings.
- The 2026 recreational halibut season opens on April 1.
- In Northern California, the season will run through November 15.
- In Southern California, the season will run through December 31.
The players
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The state agency responsible for managing California's fisheries and wildlife resources.
What’s next
Anglers are encouraged to stay informed on regulations, including season dates, bag and possession limits, and gear requirements, which are posted on the CDFW's Pacific halibut page. Updates are also available by calling the National Marine Fisheries Service pacific halibut hotline or the CDFW's groundfish and halibut regulations hotline.
The takeaway
The opening of California's recreational halibut season marks the start of prime fishing conditions for a variety of popular species, providing anglers with a wide range of opportunities to enjoy the state's abundant marine resources.