If you find yourself in Los Angeles, but want to take a breather from its non-stop, go-go-go mentality, take a 30-minute ride to Redondo Beach. Here, you can relax on a long sandy beach and clear blue waters, then spend the evening strolling around this relaxed town. If you’re looking for a more active way to spend your time, you can try kayaking, surfing, or paddleboarding. But the thing we recommend the most is fishing in Redondo Beach.
You’ll have a wide variety of catches at your disposal and plenty of charter guides to take you to the best bite. Whether you’d like to have a relaxed day on the water or speed rounds of big game sportfishing, Redondo Beach has it all.
Best Fish to Catch in Redondo Beach
When you cast a line in Redondo Beach waters, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The Pacific coast is famous for its Halibut, Tuna, Rockfish, and Yellowtail fishing, but that’s just a part of it. Here you can get your hands on Calico and Sand Bass, as well as Barracuda, Sheephead, White Seabass, Lingcod, and of course, all kinds of delicious crustaceans. Check out the most popular catches below.
Rockfish
They might not be much to look at, but Rockfish are the bread-and-butter fishery of Redondo Beach and the broader LA area. There are just under 60 species of them to target, and they’re around all year. But remember there the season is closed from January 1 to March 1. And there’s an additional bonus – they’re absolutely delicious.
As their name suggests, Rockfish are fond of structures, and they usually stick close to the bottom. Vermillion Rockfish are the most common catch, and you’ll recognize them by their intense reddish-orange color. You may also find Starry, Copper, and Olive Redfish on your line.
One of the best things about Rockfish fishing in Redondo Beach is that you can catch them close to shore, as well as in hundreds of feet of water. The same golden rule applies – the deeper the water, the bigger the Rockfish. Wherever you go, be prepared for a workout – getting this fella from the bottom can be intense. You’ll also need to be careful not to get your line cut on the rocks and ledges.
Drift fishing for Rockfish usually gives the best results. This technique lets you cover a lot of ground, especially if you’ve found a large structure and lots of fish around it. Because of their big mouths, Rockfish inhale live and dead bait, especially anchovies, sardines, and squid strips. Don’t forget to use a monofilament leader to prevent cut-offs.
Halibut
We’ll stay in the groundfish realm a bit longer – and for good reason. Halibut is another great species to target out of Redondo Beach. It’s no exaggeration to say that Hali fishing is iconic in the Golden State, but it takes on a different dimension in SoCal. These tasty flatties are on the menu all year long, with high seasons in spring and fall.
If you can’t decide whether you’d prefer to catch Halibut or Rockfish, you can target them both! Halis like to hang around similar areas as Rockfish – as long as there’s a wreck, ledge, reef, or a rockpile on the bottom, you’ll find them nearby. The ambush predators that they are, Halibut hunt around the outer edges of underwater structures, where they can camouflage and attack.
These flatties live at all depths, you can catch them from piers and in the open waters. Halibut are greedy eaters, happy to eat anything that resembles food. They won’t say no to a nice sardine and anchovy (again, similar to groundfish), as well as greenies. To prevent the line from being cut by the fish’s sharp teeth, use a fluorocarbon leader.
When you’re waiting for the bite, bear in mind that Halis like to nibble on the bait before they take it. When you feel the movement, don’t set your hook right away, otherwise, you’ll scare the fish. Better to wait for a stronger tug, then it’s time to play.
Calico Bass
Maybe you’re a Bass lover and missing the all-in action they can provide. If that’s the case, your next target should be Calico aka Kelp Bass. These bad boys are some of the hardest fighters you can find when fishing in Redondo Beach. Available year-round, these fish are at their most active during the warmer months.
Calicos are strong, voracious, and smart. They usually weigh up to 5 pounds, anything over that is a trophy specimen. You’ll find them in and around kelp beds, as their nickname suggests. They also feed around rocks, and their water depth can range from very shallow (around 5 feet) to more than 25 feet.
The thing about Calico Bass is they prefer being on their own, so don’t expect multiple catches in the place you find one. Drift fishing from a kayak or a fishing boat works well, as well as trolling.
Live bait is a good way to tempt them, especially if you’re using mackerel or anchovies. If you prefer artificials, swimbaits are the way to go, similar to freshwater Bass. You can also try chumming to get Calicos closer to your boat, that’s proven to be a productive technique. Once you get it on the boat, you’re in for a delicious meal!
Yellowtail Amberjack
Let’s talk about another staple species of Southern California – the Yellowtail Amberjack. Also known as “Mossbacks,” these fish are favorites of nearshore and offshore anglers alike. Yellowtails can be caught any day of the year, but are most comfortable and hungry during the summer.
The main advantage of Yellowtail fishing in Redondo Beach is that they’re widespread. Smaller fish congregate around estuaries and in the surf, while larger ones prefer open offshore waters around reefs and wrecks. They can weigh anywhere from 10–50+ pounds, and their main characteristics include powerful fights and delectable meat.
The best time to target Yellowtails is in the first half of the day, that’s when they’re most active. Offer them sardines, herring, or squid, and chances are you’ll get them on the line. However, keeping them on the line is a challenge. Mossbacks are famous for their deep runs, constant thrashing, and great strength. Getting one on the boat will be the real feat, but trust us when we say, they’re well worth the effort.
Tuna
We’ve come to the pinnacle of sportfishing not only in LA county but the whole state. Of course, we’re talking about the Albacore, Yellowfin, and Bluefin Tuna bite which makes for some of the most exciting angling action you can find. The summer (June–September) is the optimal time to chase after the feistiest and tastiest fish in the ocean.
To get on Tuna, you need dedication, grit, and patience. Yellowfins and Bluefins are the most coveted catches, and you can sometimes target them 10 miles offshore. However, most Tuna fishing trips will take you further and require more time on the boat. Catalina Island, the Tuna epicenter is some 25 miles away, and can all but guarantee good fish.
Albacore Tuna are the first to arrive, but they stay far from land, so they’re less likely to find. Then come Bluefins, closely followed by Yellowfins, who are the last to show up but are often the biggest. On a good day, you can hook into a Yellowfin Tuna with its weight well into three digits.
Trolling is the name of the game when we’re talking about Tuna fishing in Redondo Beach. Charter guides often recommend going on an overnight trip to the bluewater, because Tuna like to feed late in the night and early in the morning. That’s your golden ticket to unforgettable Tuna fights.
And more…
Your fishing endeavors aren’t limited to these five species, on the contrary. There’s a lot more you can catch in Redondo Beach, depending on your time and preferences.
From Barracuda, White Seabass, Cabezon, and Sheephead to Lingcod, Mahi Mahi, and several Shark species, all you have to do is choose. For the best seafood dinner you’ll ever have, try crabbing or using hoop nets to get Lobster. You won’t regret it!
How to Go Fishing in Redondo Beach
Just like there are many fish you can catch in Redondo Beach, there are also many ways to get on them. Here are the most productive approaches you can use to get on that hot bite.
Redondo Beach Pier Fishing
One of the most popular places in town, both among locals and visitors, is the Redondo Beach Pier. Not only is it great for sightseeing, eating out, and shopping, but it’s also an accessible and prolific fishing spot. Two piers are connected into one – the Municipal Pier (aka the Horseshoe) and the Monstad Pier.
There are several perks to fishing at the Redondo Beach Pier. It’s free, you don’t need a fishing license, and you can rent fishing gear on the spot. The fact that you can catch quite a bit of fish doesn’t hurt either. Bonito, Surfperch, Mackerel, smaller Barracuda, and Halibut are the most common catches. For a bigger variety of species, go to the Monstad Pier, you can reach deeper waters from there. Be sure to cast a line only in areas that are designated for fishing.
Surf Fishing in Redondo Beach
When you’ve got a beach running along the entire length of a town, it seems like a waste not to make the most of it. You’ve got one and a half miles of this sandy beauty at your disposal, and wherever you cast your line, chances are you’ll have a great time. You’ll see plenty of locals with their lines in the water as well.
Surf fishing in Redondo Beach allows you to get a taste of local fishery without spending lots of money. All you need is some basic angling equipment and fair weather. You can get your hands on Croaker, Tiger Sharks, Surfperch, small Halibut, Stingrays, and sometimes even Corbina. If you need guidance, feel free to ask for fishing advice at the nearby tackle shops.
Charter Fishing in Redondo Beach
Nothing beats getting to know new fishing grounds with an experienced guide. For Redondo Beach newcomers, booking a trip with a fishing charter might be the best way to get something good on your line. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of professional captains whose mission is to make your day on the water memorable.
Most charters in the area offer a variety of trips for every appetite. You can book a quick and easy 2-hour jaunt, where you’ll stay close to shore and target smaller, delicious fish. Trip options vary from 2–10+ hours. You’ll see excursions that specialize in hunting a particular species (Rockfish, Tuna, Calico Bass), and some that will take you to Catalina Island for big game action. Not sure what to pick? Talk to your captain, and they’ll help you decide which trip is right for your level of experience.
Redondo Beach Fishing Spots
Onwards and upwards we go, to talk about some of the most prolific fishing spots in and around Redondo Beach. Again, there’s no shortage, so have a look at our pick to help you out.
- Redondo Beach Jetty: One of the best fishing spots to check out when you don’t have a lot of time, but are craving some angling action. Anything from Rockfish and Surfperch to Cabezon and Calico Bass is in the cards.
- Bluff Cove: If you don’t mind a short 10-minute car drive to get to this hidden gem, then Bluff Cove is for you. On a good day, the variety of fish is awesome – Calico Bass, Sheephead, Leopard Sharks, Opaleye, and Bonito are all there.
- Hermosa Beach Pier: This is one of the lesser-known and fished piers in the area, but that’s a part of its appeal. The views are stunning, as the pier’s name suggests, and you could reel in Croaker, Mackerel, Corbina, and Sardines.
- King Harbor Breakwall: This is a different kind of fishing when compared to other spots. Right next to the Redondo Beach Pier, the Breakwall is an excellent fishing location, but be wary of the waves. Calico Bass and good Bonito are common catches.
- Catalina Island & Channel: Ok, this is 25 miles away from Redondo Beach, but there are fishing expeditions that will take you there for some of the most exciting big game fishing you’ve witnessed. Tuna, big Rockfish, Yellowtail, Marlin… they’re all there.
Redondo Beach Fishing Regulations
Californians take great care of their fisheries, as they should. This means, however, that you should familiarize yourself with seasonal closures and limits before you hit the water. If you’re fishing with a charter, your captain will help you sort it all out.
The first and most important thing to cover is buying your California fishing license. Even if you booked a trip with a guide, it’s your responsibility to have a valid license on the trip. You can buy it online, in a tackle shop, or at Walmart. And don’t forget a Report Card if you’re going hunting for Lobster.
Fishing in Redondo Beach – The Action Never Stops
Redondo Beach is a quaint and beautiful fishing locale away from the busy LA metropolis. Fishing in Redondo Beach gives you the chance to do something you love without being overwhelmed by the sheer number of people and noise surrounding you. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge for a weekend and get some great fish on the line.
Did you ever fish in Redondo Beach? What was your experience like? Do you have a story to share? Talk to us in the comments below.
