Home / Species / Yellowtail (California)

Seriola dorsalis

How to identify a Yellowtail (California)

Yellowtail (California) are found in beaches, jetties, marshes, inlets, kelp lines; tide/current edges. Use these features as a starting point and compare with a full identification guide before relying on any identification.

Yellowtail (California) (Seriola dorsalis)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons contributors (CC BY-SA)
EnvironmentSaltwater
SeasonYear-round in many areas; spring–fall peaks; dawn/dusk

Habitat and range

Beaches, jetties, marshes, inlets, kelp lines; tide/current edges

Where to catch Yellowtail (California)

Yellowtail (California) by state

State season calendars that list Yellowtail (California) — each shows the months it is in season and the official licence source:

Baits and lures

Shrimp · crabs · small baitfish · spoons · jigs · soft plastics

Yellowtail (California) trip plan
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Related species

Often caught in the same waters or confused with Yellowtail (California):

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Do not rely on a photo alone for legal or food-safety decisions. Location, season, life stage and local regulations matter. Confirm any identification that affects possession limits or consumption with the responsible wildlife agency.

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