RE: The Phenomenon of California Grunion Runs (April 11-24, 2025)
Q: Do you have to have a valid sport fishing license to catch and release? Thank you.
- Zira
A: Yes, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, a California fishing license is required for persons 16 years and older in California and during the open season. Grunion may be taken by hand only; the use of any gear or digging holes to trap them is prohibited. The daily bag and possession limit for grunion is 30 fish.
It’s important to note that during the closed season, from April 1 through June 30, no taking or handling of grunion is permitted. This period is designated to protect grunion during their peak spawning months.
For persons 15 and younger, no license is required, but all other regulations still apply. Observing grunion runs can be a fascinating experience, and people are encouraged to do so without disturbing the fish, especially during the closed season. For more detailed information on grunion regulations and expected run schedules, you can visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s grunion page.
