Target Shooting Clay Pigeons at Sea

March 10, 2011

Question:What are the rules and regulations for shooting firearms at sea? I have seen TV footage of people shooting clay pigeons at sea and so would like to know where along the California coast we can shoot, and what forms of firearms and ammunition can be used? (Steve N.)

Answer: Target shooting in the ocean is not addressed in the Fish and Game Code, but littering in waters of the state is and may be an issue. According to FGC, section 5652, “It is unlawful to deposit, permit to pass into, or place where it can pass into the waters of the state, or to abandon, dispose of, or throw away, within 150 feet of the high water mark of the waters of the state, any cans, bottles, garbage, motor vehicle or parts thereof, rubbish, litter, refuse, waste, debris, or the viscera or carcass of any dead mammal, or the carcass of any dead bird.” Depending on the location, there may also be local, state and federal laws prohibiting the discharge of firearms.

I bet that would be fun! Next million dollar is the clay pigeon that is ocean safe, haha