Can I Use Frozen Trout for Bait in San Francisco Bay?

June 16, 2011

Question: I want to use frozen trout for bait in San Francisco Bay. Would this be legal since the trout were originally caught from various locations in northern California? Would my possession limit of these fish on the boat be tied to where the fish were caught (the possession limit for the particular waters where taken) versus the local trout possession limit allowed where I am fishing? (Howard A.)

Answer: Trout may be used as bait in ocean waters. The possession limit for trout while in the Ocean Fishing District is three per person no matter where they are taken (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, sections 1.59 and 27.70.)

If you read the fine print in the reg, "only if they are to freezer burned to eat!!!