Is Freshwater Spearfishing Ever Allowed?

July 16, 2020

Question: It is my understanding that spearfishing in freshwater is not authorized in California. Are there any exceptions for spearing invasive species, like pikeminnow at Lake Pillsbury in Lake County? (Landon)

Answer: Freshwater spearfishing is generally prohibited for fish species in California, aside from a half-dozen or so specific exceptions listed in the California Code of Regulations Title 14, section 2.30. For example, freshwater spearfishing is permitted in the Colorado River Sport Fishing District in Southern California for carp, tilapia, goldfish and mullet all year. You’ll find these regulations on page 16 of the 2020-2021 California Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.

Lake County and Lake Pillsbury are not included among the areas or specific waters where freshwater spearfishing is allowed for fish species. However, if frog gigging is of any interest to you, invasive American bullfrogs – which make fine table fare – may be taken any time of year, in any number, day or night, by spears, lights, gigs, bow and arrow and fishing tackle, among other methods of take identified in the California Fish and Game Code, section 5.05. Bullfrogs can be taken in most parts of the state provided you have a valid California sport fishing license.