Bullfrog Hunting

October 5, 2023

Question: Can Bullfrogs be taken with an air rifle? The California Code of Regulations specifies no firearm can be used to take any aquatic creatures but doesn't specifically spell out air rifles.

Answer: The take of bullfrogs is regulated in two primary sections of the California Code of Regulations (CCR). To begin by answering your question directly, regulations do not authorize take of bullfrogs or any other amphibian by air rifle. CCR, section 5.05(e)(1) defines methods of take for amphibians: Amphibians may be taken only by hand, hand-held dip net or hook and line, except bullfrogs may also be taken by lights, spears, gigs, grabs, paddles, bow and arrow or fishing tackle.

FYI, pursuant to CCR Section 5.05(b)(23) and Section 5.05(d), there is no limit on the take of American bullfrogs (Lithobates berlandieri) and they may be taken at any time, day or night.

I wonder why they don't allow people to shoot bullfrogs, as it looks like they otherwise want to get rid of as many as possible.

When I lived in Iowa, we would go to a farm pond at night, take a small jon boat out on the water, shine a light on the shoreline, look for the beady little eyes of bullfrogs, and blast them to smithereens. The frog legs would survive intact, and they were quite tasty.

Yeah that makes a lot of sense when you can shot with a bow but not an air riffle.

Hook and line is pretty darn effective. They love a little plastic worm dangled in front of their face.

Hook and line is pretty darn effective. They love a little plastic worm dangled in front of their face.

Yes, I've done that too, but I never liked trying to unhook them. It always seemed to me that shooting was simpler and more humane.

We would use a large bobber with a treble hook taped on the side. The frogs would attack like crazy. Would just catch and release but my kids talked me into getting a large fish tank and catching some for pets. Caught 1 big one and 2 small ones plus my kids netted a couple of tad poles.

Brought them home and put them all happily in the tank. The next day we only had a much larger big one.

A coworker purchases frog legs at a local market in Watsonville. Loves eating them.

A coworker purchases frog legs at a local market in Watsonville. Loves eating them.

They taste better than chicken 

My kids LOVE them. We usually just catch a few and then soak them in milk, then fry them up. Taste amazing! Highly recommend.

Do you fish for them during day time?
I have done frog gigging during night time.

Do you fish for them during day time?
I have done frog gigging during night time.

You can catch them H&L during daylight hours for sure. They are more active at night though.