Nearshore

White Seabass

Atractoscion nobilis

Avg. Weight

25.0 lbs

Avg. Length

28+ inches

World Record

83.5 lbs

Found In

9 Destinations

About White Seabass

White Seabass are the largest member of the croaker family on the Pacific coast and one of the most coveted catches in Southern California. These powerful, elusive fish frequent kelp forests, sandy bottom near structure, and offshore islands, often feeding in the predawn hours and at night. Their silvery-gray body with a dark blue-steel back and copper-tinted flanks is beautiful, and their firm, mild flesh is considered premium table fare. Landing a quality white seabass over 30 lbs is considered one of SoCal saltwater fishing's greatest achievements.

Identification & Appearance

Elongated, silvery body with a dark blue-steel back and silver sides that flash copper-gold in certain light. A dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin. No barbels. Lower jaw slightly protruding. The body is more elongated than most croakers. Fresh fish display a stunning iridescent blue-silver sheen.

Male vs. Female

Males and females are similar in appearance. Females grow larger on average. Males produce a drumming sound during spawning by vibrating their swim bladder — typical of the croaker family. Spawning occurs from April through August.

Size, Weight & Records

Average catch is 15-25 lbs (28-36 inches). Quality white seabass run 30-50 lbs. Trophy fish exceed 50 lbs. The all-tackle world record is 83 lbs 12 oz, caught off San Felipe, Mexico in 1953. Fish over 40 lbs are considered exceptional in California waters.

Seasonal Availability

Peak Season Good Fair Off Season

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Popular Bait & Fishing Methods

Best Techniques

Live squid is the #1 bait when available — fished on a sliding sinker rig near the bottom along kelp edges and rocky structure at night or dawn. Live sardines on a flyline or lightly weighted hook also produce. Trolling large Rapala CD-18 plugs through kelp channels and along offshore islands is effective for covering water. Artificial lure fishing with large swimbaits (6-8 inch) and white or glow-colored soft plastics retrieved slowly along the bottom works well. Patience is key — white seabass are notoriously fickle feeders.

Recommended Tackle

Medium-heavy rod (7-8 ft), conventional or spinning reel, 20-30 lb mono or 40-50 lb braid, 25-30 lb fluorocarbon leader, 2/0-4/0 circle hooks for live bait. Fish with a light drag — white seabass have soft mouths that can tear easily with heavy pressure.

Regulations & Bag Limits

California has a 28-inch minimum size limit and 3-fish bag limit for white seabass. A special "White Seabass Stamp" was historically required but regulations evolve. No-take zones exist in some Marine Protected Areas. Check current CDFW regulations.

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current rules with your charter captain or state wildlife agency before fishing.