California Bag Limits
Complete daily limits, possession limits, and season limits for hunting and fishing in California.
California Bag Limits
Complete guide to daily limits, possession limits, season limits, and size restrictions for hunting and fishing in California. Updated for the current season.
Big Game
4 species
Game Birds
6 species
Fish Species
3 species
Total Species
13
Big Game
4 species in California
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black-tailed Deer | 1 | - | Varies by tag type | A, B, X, and other zone tags available |
| Mule Deer | 1 | - | 1-2 per year | Premium hunts require draw |
| Wild Pig | No limit | - | - | Year-round on private land; tag required |
| Black Bear | 1 | - | 1 per year | Tag required; no baiting/hounds |
Upland Birds
4 species in California
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey | 1 | - | 3 per year | Bearded turkeys only |
| Dove | 15 | 45 | - | Combined mourning and white-winged |
| Pheasant | 3 | 9 | - | Cocks only |
| Quail | 10 | 30 | - | California, mountain, and Gambels |
Fish
3 species in California
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Size Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | 5 | - | - | 12" minimum | - |
| Rainbow Trout | 5 | - | - | Varies by water | - |
| Striped Bass | 2 | - | - | 18" minimum | - |
California Special Notes
California has complex zone regulations. Always verify your specific hunting zone rules.
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California Regulations Overview
State wildlife agency and regulations information
- Species Covered
- 13 species with regulations
- Big Game Species
-
- Black-tailed Deer
- Mule Deer
- Wild Pig
- Black Bear
- Wildlife Agency
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife
This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.
Last verified: January 2026
California Bag Limits FAQ
Common questions about harvest limits in California
What is the deer bag limit in California?
In California, the daily deer limit is 1 with a season limit of Varies by tag type. A, B, X, and other zone tags available
What is the difference between daily and possession limits?
Daily limit is the maximum you can harvest in one day. Possession limit is the maximum you can have at any time, typically 2-3 times the daily limit. In California, possession limits help ensure hunters don't stockpile beyond reasonable personal use.
What big game can I hunt in California?
California offers hunting for: Black-tailed Deer, Mule Deer, Black Bear. Each species has specific limits and regulations - always verify current rules before hunting.
What are the fishing limits in California?
California fishing limits include: Largemouth Bass: 5/day (12" minimum); Rainbow Trout: 5/day (Varies by water); Striped Bass: 2/day (18" minimum). Water-specific regulations may override general limits.
Where can I find official California bag limits?
For official and current bag limits, check your California wildlife agency website. Regulations can change annually, and specific areas may have different rules. Always carry current regulations while hunting.
Are there special regulations I should know about in California?
California has complex zone regulations. Always verify your specific hunting zone rules.
Other States
View bag limits for more states
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