California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) – Key Contacts

Posted on June 2, 2025 by Local Fish

Below is your go-to list of CDFW contacts specifically tailored for commercial and recreational fishermen in California. This resource provides essential information for licensing, fishing regulations, and enforcement issues.

📌 License & Revenue Branch

(Licenses, permits, validations, and general licensing questions)

  • Phone: (916) 928-5805
  • Email: LRB@wildlife.ca.gov
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Note: This office does not have a public license sales counter.

Commercial Fishing Licenses:

📌 Online License Sales Support

(Assistance with online fishing licenses and permits)

  • Phone: (888) 773-8450
  • Hours:
    • Monday–Friday: 5:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    • Saturday: 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM

📌 Fishing Regulations and General Inquiries

(Questions about regulations, new changes, and general fisheries information)

🚨 Fishing Enforcement (Wardens)

(Reporting illegal fishing activity, compliance, and enforcement issues)

  • CalTIP Hotline (24-hour confidential reporting):
    📞 1-888-334-2258
  • Text a tip: Send “CALTIP” and your message to 847411
  • Online Reporting: CalTIP Online
  • Regional Enforcement Office – South Coast Region:

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) – Key Contacts