Rockfish & Lingcod
Charters

Santa Cruz’s Most Consistent Fishing Adventure

Experience the thrill of bottom fishing in some of California’s most productive rocky reefs with Barbarossa Fishing’s Rockfish and Lingcod charters. These year-round adventures offer consistent action, diverse species, and excellent table fare while showcasing Captain Justin’s expertise in reading bottom structure and finding fish.

Trip Details & Pricing

Duration: 3 or 7 hours
Price: $800 (3 hours) / $1,300 (7 hours) for up to 4 guests.

Add $50 for each guest over 4.

Capacity: Up to 6 guests maximum

Season: April 1st – December 31st
Departure Times: 6am, 10am, 4pm (3hr) | 6:30am (7hr)
Booking: 50% deposit required to secure your date

Target Species & Size Ranges

Rockfish Varieties (1-12 lbs)

The rocky reefs around Santa Cruz harbor an incredible diversity of rockfish species, each with unique characteristics and fighting qualities:

Lingcod (5-30 lbs)

• The apex predator of California’s rocky reefs
• Aggressive strikes and powerful fights
• Excellent eating with firm, white meat
• Trophy specimens often exceed 20 pounds

Vermillion Rockfish

• Bright red coloration with excellent flavor
• Abundant around deeper reef structures
• Premium table fare highly sought by restaurants

Copper Rockfish

• Copper-bronze coloration with distinctive patterns
• Strong fighters that test your equipment
• Excellent for smoking and grilling

Canary Rockfish

• Yellow-orange coloration with black markings
• Often found in schools for multiple hookups
• Sweet, mild flavor perfect for fish tacos

Blue Rockfish

• Abundant species providing consistent action
• Great for beginners and children
• Excellent bait for targeting larger lingcod

Olive Rockfish

• Hardy species that fights well above its weight
• Often found in mixed schools with other rockfish
• Consistent availability throughout the season