There is no explicit mention of atlatls in most hunting regulations. However, because they are not mentioned as a legal implement, they are, by proxy, illegal for some (if not all) types of hunting. It is more common to find that an atlatl is legal for limited small game hunting.

Can an atlatl kill a deer?

Atlatls “are one of the allowed methods hunters can hunt with during archery deer and turkey season,” the department wrote.

Is it legal to hunt with an atlatl?

California: There is no direct reference in the Code to use of an atlatl. ... Hunting opportunities in this state with a spear (atlatl) are limited. No big or small game species could legally be taken with one. However, animals that are classified as "non-game" species could be (coyotes, rodents, opossum, etc).