California Yellowtail

Seriola dorsalis

Also called: yellowtail, yellow

A strong, yellow-tailed jack of the Southern California coast, found around kelp, islands, and bait schools, and one of the region's top gamefish.

Illustration of a slim blue-green fish in side view with a yellow stripe along its side and a yellow tail — AI-generated illustration for general reference. Fish vary in color and markings with age, location, and water, so check the identification tips below rather than relying on one picture.

Type: Offshore & Pelagic
Typical size: 8 to 30 lb; fish over 40 lb are large
Range: The Pacific coast of Southern California and Baja California
Coasts: Pacific
Where: Reefs, wrecks & jetties, Open water
Best seasons: Summer and fall are best off Southern California

Note: Size limits, bag limits, and seasons for this species change often, so check current state and federal rules before you keep one.

How to identify it

A slim, torpedo-shaped body with a blue-green back.
A yellow stripe along the sides.
A yellow-tinged tail.
A silvery belly.

Baits and lures

Live sardines and anchovies
Iron jigs and surface jigs
Dead baits

Techniques

Fish live baits around kelp paddies, islands, and bait schools.
Use iron jigs and yo-yo them to find fish in deeper water.
Use strong tackle and keep fish out of kelp.
Check for boats and drift lines.

Field notes

Yellowtail travel with kelp and bait schools and are tough fighters. Many anglers use heavy leaders to pull fish from the kelp.

Related guides

Saltwater size limits, bag limits, seasons, gear rules, and license requirements change often and differ by state and in federal waters. Some species are catch-and-release only or closed in certain areas. Check your state's current fishing regulations before you keep a fish; our state resources directory links to each state's official wildlife and fisheries agency.

← All saltwater fish