About Carmel Point

Carmel Point sits off Monterey, California, where a rocky drop-off falls through outer, exposed water into depths of 260 to 660 feet. The steep structure holds Lingcod, which peak from November through January, again March through May, and September through October, alongside Blue Rockfish and Black Rockfish that run strongest from spring into late summer. California Halibut work the area from March through September, while Chinook Salmon move through March to July. Anglers target Lingcod, Black Rockfish, and Blue Rockfish with jigging over the rock using metal jigs, leadhead jigs, and swimbaits, and drop shot rigging with plastic grubs or squid strips reaches fish tight to the drop. Chinook Salmon respond to trolling anchovies, spoons, and flashers through the exposed outer water, and drift fishing live anchovies or sardines covers halibut along the deeper margins.