Report Date:
http://www.dfg.ca.gov/news/Question:
Is it legal to hunt and take big game in California with an airgun of any caliber? I am aware that small game (rabbits, squirrels, etc) may be taken with any caliber airgun and turkeys may be taken with a .20 caliber or larger airgun. I read this question recently on a very widely viewed airgun forum.
Answer:
Air rifles are unlawful for this purpose. Check California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 353 for the specific methods allowed for the taking of big game.