South Coast Fishing Report

After a three-month closure that kept many Southern California boats tied up at the docks, rockfish season officially reopened on April 1. While weather on opening day wasn’t quite cooperative, the very next morning, April 2, brought clear skies, calm seas, and a wave of eager anglers. With that, many are considering it the true start of the 2025 fishing season. Dana Wharf Sportfishing image This past week has brought trips out to the 14-Mile Bank, as well as shallower waters near La Jolla and San Onofre, have been fruitful, giving anglers plenty to cheer about. Catching limits of rockfish have been common, often filled within the first few hours of a 3/4-day trip. Vermilion and copper rockfish dominated the early bite, while sand dabs, whitefish, and the occasional sole rounded out a solid mix of species coming over the rail. For many Southern California anglers, this kind of action marks a welcome return to consistency after a long winter lull. Early season trips have shown excellent results with both bait and jigs. Cut squid has proven especially effective, with anchovies also producing steady bites. Conventional gear is preferred over spinning tackle, as it allows for better control and...