White Seabass in Possession

May 13, 2010

Question: The bag limit for white seabass is one fish per person from March 15 to June 15, but some people I’ve seen are catching a fish in the morning, taking it home and then catching another the same day. That way they never have more than one in possession. Is this legal? (Marty H., La Jolla)

Answer: No. Anglers fishing south of Point Conception are allowed only one fish per day and in possession between March 15 and June 15, period. “Possession” includes at home in the freezer (see Q&A above). This regulation helps protect these fish while they are spawning. Keep in mind that this population appears to be on the rebound due to good management practices and so it’s up to sport fishermen to abide by the regulations to ensure this continues.