Methods for Fish & Shellfish Measurement

Methods for Measurement for California Ocean Fishing

For recreational sportfishing, most varieties of fish and shellfish will have a measurement requirement. It is best to check with the latest sport fishing regulations book for any changes in measurements, and for species-specific minimum and maximum size requirements. Here are some measurement methods approved and described by the California Department of Fish and Game for different species.

Fish

Fish are measured in inch length. For the total length of the fish, measure it flat from the tip of the head to the end of the tail. Make sure the fish’s mouth is closed and begin to measure at the tip of the lips. If the fish tail is longer at one point, the guide notes to measure at the point of the longest tip. The fork length is measured differently. Begin to measure at the tip of the head (with fish mouth closed) and end measurement where the tail forks.

Shellfish and Crustaceans

In California, the California spiny lobster is found of the coastline. It is different than the East Coast American lobster, and lacks the large claws found in the East Coast species. For the California spiny lobster sizes, check and measure the carapace. The lobsters can be brought up to the surface to measure if the fisherman is on a dive, but no smaller lobsters than legal size may be brought on board a boat or be kept in any way. The carapace is measured from the rear-edge of the lobster’s eye socket all the way to edge of the body shell.

Clams are measured by widest point of the shell, end to end. Abalone is measure in the same way. Crabs are measured from one edge of the shell to the other edge, excluding the lateral spines.

For fish measurement helpers, try these products: