Is a License Required to do Catch-and-release Fishing?

July 18, 2019

Question: I am interested in fishing both freshwater and saltwater but plan to do only catch-and-release fishing. Will I still need a license if I’m fishing only for fun and not keeping any of the fish I catch? (Josh)

Answer: Yes, you must have a fishing license to engage in the act of fishing regardless of whether you intend to keep fish. The way it is defined in the regulations, you need a license to even “attempt” to pursue or take a fish or animal.

He can fish from public fishing piers without a license.  But that's it.

he can fish from breakwaters too

Not all jetties are considered public piers.

and not all piers are public 

DFW posts the regulations and what is allowed on their website.  Here is the link  (see the last question)

https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/licensing/fishing#445181407-sport-fishing-license-questions

If you're catching and releasing, may I suggest using barbless hooks? Have fun!

If you're catching and releasing, may I suggest using barbless hooks? Have fun!

Good idea. Actually, I think barbless is almost always a good idea on kayak...