When it comes to pier fishing, few destinations in the country can compare to San Diego. With enjoyable weather year-round and a coastline most other places can only dream of, the city has all the ingredients for a shore angler’s paradise. The best part is, “America’s Finest City” is dotted with amazing fishing piers that put you right in the thick of the action. Today, you’ll learn all you need to know about San Diego pier fishing.
Before we get to the actual piers you’ll be fishing from, let’s get a few general facts out of the way.
Do I need a fishing license?
No, you do not need a fishing license to fish from San Diego’s piers. Keep in mind, however, that this only goes for coastal piers, and not for beaches and inland docks. You will still need to abide by all other California fishing regulations, like size and bag limits.
When do I fish?
To make the most out of your pier fishing experience, time your casts when the tides are changing. This is when the ocean stirs up loads of nutrients from the seabed, inviting all sorts of fish to feast. For you, this means it’s “go” time. With just a little tide chart know-how, you’ll know exactly when to wet your line.
You can also check San Diego’s tide forecast here.
What gear do I need?
Pier fishing is not as gear-intensive as charter fishing, so you’ll just need a few essentials to make things work. Still, the fishing piers in San Diego can be very long, with some stretching almost 2,000 feet! This means that the fishing (and the gear) can be very different at the base and at the end of the pier.
Generally speaking, heavier gear will work better as you move further down the pier. In most situations, medium to heavy rods between 6 and 9 feet tend to work best. Make sure to have a good saltwater spinning reel to avoid corrosion.
For your line, a 20–30 lb test mono is usually the best option. It’s strong enough to pull some decently-sized fish, but at the same time flexible enough to withstand any break-off attempts. You’ll also need a sinker to keep your payload down and stable against the current.
For bait, you can use anything from squid and bloodworms to sardines and anchovies. Of course, lures can get the job done as well, so it never hurts to have a few on you. A good rule of thumb is to ask what’s been working recently at the local bait shop. A few other items you’ll want to have are sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, pliers, a filleting knife, and a cooler.
Nowadays, most piers are equipped with bait and tackle shops that will cover almost all of your gear needs. Many of these shops offer good quality rental rods as well, allowing all anglers to have their shot.
Where do I fish?
Crystal Pier
Address: 4500 Ocean Blvd, San Diego
Open: 8:00 a.m. to sunset
Parking: Only on the street
What can you catch: Surf Perch, California Corbina, Queenfish, Mackerel, Halibut and Lobster
Definitely one of the more unique fishing piers on the West Coast, Crystal Pier is perfect for people who like to take their time and indulge. The pier is lined with cozy cottages equipped with terraces looking out onto the ocean. For one-day visitors, there’s a bait and tackle store, a fish cleaning station, and benches.
Imperial Beach Pier
Address: 10 Evergreen Ave, Imperial Beach
Open: 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Parking: $2
What can you catch: Surf Perch, California Corbina, Croaker, Mackerel, Bonito, Halibut
Just a couple of miles from Mexico, Imperial Beach Pier is the southernmost fishing pier in California. Walking down its 1,491 feet of wooden planks will award you with a commanding view of the Coronado Islands ahead. Originally built in 1963, the pier offers restrooms, benches, fish cleaning stations, and a restaurant serving burgers and fresh seafood.
Ocean Beach Pier
Address: Niagara Ave, San Diego
Open: Temporarily closed
Parking: Free
What can you catch: Surf Perch, Queenfish, Scorpionfish, Bonito, Mackerel, and Lobster
Jutting an impressive 1,971 feet into the Pacific, Ocean Beach Pier is the longest concrete pier in California. The pier was first opened in 1966, and it stands in depths of 20 feet at its deepest point. Ocean Beach Pier boasts a restaurant, a restroom, and a bait and tackle shop.
Embarcadero Park Pier
Address: 200 Marina Park Way, San Diego
Open: 24h
Parking: Free, closes at 10:00 p.m.
What can you catch: Sand Bass, Bay Bass, Calico Bass, Mackerel, Barracuda
Measuring just 95 feet in length, the unassuming T-shaped Embarcadero Park Pier is one of the best-kept secrets in town. Thanks to its eelgrass bottom and nearby artificial reef, the pier is among the most productive spots in town. The pier doesn’t offer much in terms of amenities, but if you come prepared, you’ll be in for a blast.
Oceanside Pier
Address: 1540 N Harbor Dr, Oceanside
Open: 4:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Parking: Options for hourly and daily tickets
What can you catch: Sand Bass, Bay Bass, Calico Bass, Mackerel, Barracuda
At 1954 feet, Oceanside Pier is one of the longest piers in California. It is one of the rare wooden piers of its size, and the perfect choice for beachgoers. Thanks to its size, the pier reaches waters as deep as 50 feet, putting you on some good-sized fish. Oceanside Pier boasts a quality bait shop, and a charming 50s style diner where you can grab a tasty burger or a cold drink.
Shelter Island Pier
Address: 1776 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Parking: Options for hourly and daily tickets, open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
What can you catch: Sand Bass, Bay Bass, Calico Bass, Mackerel, Barracuda
Located in one of San Diego’s liveliest fishing communities, Shelter Island Pier has everything you need for a good quality fishing experience. The local bait and tackle shop has top-notch gear rentals and bait. If you’re in the mood for a fishing story or two, the Marlin Club is right next door. There are also several restaurants within walking distance, as well as ample parking space. The pier itself stretches 200 feet into the water, with a T-shaped 500-foot wide platform at the front. Once you’re done fishing, you can go for a relaxing stroll along the bay.
Plenty More to Discover
“America’s Finest City” is soaked in its love of angling. You can spend days exploring the coast and the bountiful pier fishing San Diego offers. Whether it’s catching fish with your family, your buddies, or even just making new friends on the dock, pier fishing in San Diego is an experience you’ll remember for a long time.
What are your favorite fishing piers in San Diego? What was your best catch? Any advice for San Diego pier fishing newbies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
