California Code, Fish and Game Code - FGC § 2001

(a) It is unlawful to take a mammal, bird, fish, reptile, or amphibian outside of an established season or to exceed a bag limit or possession limit established in this code or by a regulation adopted by the commission.  Violation of an established season, bag limit, or possession limit may be charged as a violation of this section or of the specific code section or regulation that establishes the season or limit.

(b) Unless otherwise provided, it is unlawful to possess a fish, reptile, or amphibian, except during the open season where the fish, reptile, or amphibian was taken or during the 10-day period immediately following that open season.  A possession limit applicable during the open season applies during that 10-day period.

(c) Except as provided in Section 3080, it is unlawful to possess a game bird or mammal except during the open season where taken.