So you’ve booked a California vacation rental, planned your must-sees, and packed your bags. If you plan on fishing during your stay, there’s plenty to know about, from getting a license to proper behavior around fellow fishers. Here’s a guide to some of the basic fishing practices in this state.

What to Know About California Fishing

1. License Requirements

Unfortunately, you can’t simply wake up on your first day and head down to the water—you’ll need to have a sport fishing license to enjoy this pastime. While there are certain local restrictions, an annual fishing license will allow you to catch fish, crustaceans, and a number of other marine life.

Residents, veterans, low-income seniors, disabled individuals and low-income seniors or Native Americans, are all eligible for discounts, but the standard annual license is $137.73. If you’re not planning on coming back to your vacation rental throughout the year, you can purchase one-, two-, or three-day licenses starting at $16.46. 

2. Restrictions of Your Specific Fishing Location

In addition to overarching state regulations, the fishing area near your vacation rental may have specific guidelines. For example, in Eagle Lake, you’re only allowed to catch two fish per day, and you should only have four in your possession at all times.

Some areas, such as the Pine Creek Slough, are off-limits for fishing enthusiasts. Also, visitors are forbidden to use live or dead fin fish as bait. Learning about such rules ahead of time could save you from losing your license in the middle of your vacation.

3. Respect for the Natural Wonders

The money you spend on the license will go towards state programs that focus on protecting local ecosystems. However, it’s also important to display your respect for California’s natural wonders as you head to the lake.

For example, if you’re not planning on eating the fish you catch, or if you’re not allowed to, you should know how to learn catch-and-release methods to increase the likelihood of the animal’s survival. Keeping your hands wet, avoiding contact with the eyes and gills, and placing the fish back in the water headfirst are just some of the tips that will save your latest catch.

If you’re hoping to plan an idyllic fishing trip to Eagle Lake, CA, book your vacation rental with Heritage Land Co. They offer cabins by the week, so you can spend a significant amount of time getting to know the local waterways. Plus, you can conveniently purchase a sport fishing license on-site. If you decide to make your visit permanent, they also offer properties for sale. To learn more about their furnished rentals, visit their website or call (530) 825-2131 to find out more about this location.