Tidal Bass – CA Delta 

5.0
(24 reviews)
 3995 Willow Road, Bethel Island, CA 94511, United States–

Tidal Bass – CA Delta 

Bethel Island, CA, United States
–
21 ft
2
5.0
(24 reviews)

The excitement of catching a largemouth bass on the California Delta is a unique blend of factors, creating an experience that anglers deeply cherish and Tidal Bass will help you understand the fishery. Here's a breakdown of what contributes to the thrill of fishing with Tidal Bass:

The California Delta is a vast and complex network of waterways. This labyrinth of sloughs, channels, and islands provides diverse habitats, making it a prime location for Largemouth Bass. This complex environment makes each catch feel like a reward for navigating a challenging space.
. The tidal influence adds another layer of complexity, with water levels and currents constantly changing. This means anglers must adapt their strategies, making each successful catch a testament to their skill and adaptability.

The abundant vegetation, like hydrilla and tules, creates ideal cover for Bass, leading to explosive strikes and intense fights.

The Delta is known for producing large Bass, with the potential for catching 'lunker' fish. The possibility of hooking into a trophy-sized Bass adds an element of anticipation and excitement to every cast. These fish are often strong and aggressive, providing a thrilling fight that tests the angler's skills and equipment

Don't delay… book a trip with Tidal Bass. Captain J.D. is an accomplished tournament angler and as a retired Fire Chief he enjoys every minute passing on his knowledge of the complexities of the Delta. His son currently competes in the Bassmaster, MLF, ACA and BAM Super 60 events traveling across the country.

You can feel confident in booking a trip with Tidal Bass that you will have an amazing experience chasing around big Largemouth Bass on a world class fishery. You will be treated to fishing from a Phoenix 921 ProXP and will be using the best high-end rods and reels.

Make sure to purchase a California fishing license prior to your trip! Look forward to seeing you soon.

The excitement of catching a largemouth bass on the California Delta is a unique blend of factors, creating an experience that anglers deeply cherish and Tidal Bass will help you understand the fishery. Here's a breakdown of what contributes to the thrill of fishing with Tidal Bass:

The California Delta is a vast and complex network of waterways. This labyrinth of sloughs, channels, and islands provides diverse habitats, making it a prime location for Largemouth Bass. This complex environment makes each catch feel like a reward for navigating a challenging space.
. The tidal influence adds another layer of complexity, with water levels and currents constantly changing. This means anglers must adapt their strategies, making each successful catch a testament to their skill and adaptability.

The abundant vegetation, like hydrilla and tules, creates ideal cover for Bass, leading to explosive strikes and intense fights.

The Delta is known for producing large Bass, with the potential for catching 'lunker' fish. The possibility of hooking into a trophy-sized Bass adds an element of anticipation and excitement to every cast. These fish are often strong and aggressive, providing a thrilling fight that tests the angler's skills and equipment

Don't delay… book a trip with Tidal Bass. Captain J.D. is an accomplished tournament angler and as a retired Fire Chief he enjoys every minute passing on his knowledge of the complexities of the Delta. His son currently competes in the Bassmaster, MLF, ACA and BAM Super 60 events traveling across the country.

You can feel confident in booking a trip with Tidal Bass that you will have an amazing experience chasing around big Largemouth Bass on a world class fishery. You will be treated to fishing from a Phoenix 921 ProXP and will be using the best high-end rods and reels.

Make sure to purchase a California fishing license prior to your trip! Look forward to seeing you soon.

John Madden
Captain
John Madden
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
October 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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Kids Bass Fishing Introduction
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
US $350
Entire boat: 2 people
4 Hour Trip – Targeted Tide
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
US $400
Entire boat: 2 people
6 Hour Trip – Tide Switch
In high demand Last booked: 5 days ago
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 6:30 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
US $550
Entire boat: 2 people
8 Hour Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
US $675
Entire boat: 2 people
There are 3 people looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
24 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (18)

Reviews (24)

  • Paul Houser
    Paul Houser
    Repeat angler
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2020
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Father/Son Fishing Trip

    Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on May 31, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Wanted to take my 6 year old son on a fishing trip and saw the option for kids intro to bass fishing for half day. Competitive price and half day is a great option for beginners so I booked it. JD was very responsive and helped us get a good date. Had to reschedule due to weather and it was easy and flexible. The trip itself was awesome! Clear directions, punctual, great boat, marina, and fishing location. JD was so friendly and patient while teaching my son, even after he tangled line multiple times. Ended up catching over a dozen fish! My son hasn’t stopped talking about the trip and can’t wait to go again.

  • Eduardo Luna
    Eduardo Luna
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great day fishing on the delta.

    4 Hour Trip – Targeted Tide on July 1, 2026 • 2 adults

    Our guide was ready to go first thing in the morning. Within minutes of leaving the dock, we were fishing for large mouth bass. Our guide/captain was very knowledgeable and informative on fishing the Delta. He provided great instruction on techniques...rigs, casting, and setting the hook. We probably caught a dozen fish, including a 5lber. Overall my son and I had a great time fishing. Looking forward to next time.

  • Leah Israel
    Leah Israel
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    John is the best!

    6 Hour Trip – Tide Switch on May 4, 2026 • 1 adult

    I booked a fishing trip with Captain John as a surprise gift for my dad’s 65th birthday. John went above and beyond to communicate directly with him before the trip started and made sure he was able to catch a ton of fish out on the water that day. We would not hesitate to book with John again in the future and I’m so grateful to him for making the day so special!

  • Kevin Moody
    Kevin Moody
    us
    Utah, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    awesome trip

    8 Hour Trip on June 19, 2026 • 2 adults

    we caught a lot of bass, captain jd was very knowledgeable and a great teacher, would definitely go again and recommend him to others

  • Robert "bruce" Bickel
    Robert "bruce" Bickel
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Captain John was great! Great experience!

    6 Hour Trip – Tide Switch on April 3, 2026 • 2 adults

    We had never fished the Delta. Captain John Showed us the north Delta and the western Delta, Caught my largest fish ever, 81/2 #

  • Jeremy Hoff
    Jeremy Hoff
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Had a blast today

    Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on April 17, 2025 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Captain John was very helpful and knowledgeable about how to find and catch delta bass. He took us to multiple spots and we caught fish in each spot. My son had caught 3 bass in the first 10 minutes of fishing. Would love to go again and definitely recommend whether you have kids or just want to learn how the tides effect fishing in this area.

  • Bruce Burke
    Bruce Burke
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Met all of my expectations and more

    8 Hour Trip on September 25, 2026 • 2 adults

    My partner and I wanted to do more than catch fish. We are experienced fly fisherman who are older and wanted to continue fishing but needed as easier way to do that. My partner bought a Bass Pro boat to start us off. We asked JD, the captain, to focus more on the where, when, how, and techniques for largemouth bass more than catching fish. JD did all of that and we still caught fish. Hope to have another trip but focus on a different area. Highly recommended.

  • Tod Gomes
    Tod Gomes
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    First time fishing trip

    Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on October 8, 2026 • 2 adults

    I booked this trip for my son's birthday who has never caught a 'real' fish yet. Captain JD was great working with him explaining things very patient and his cast alone was noticeably better within the first 2 hours. We ended up catching a few fish each between the two of us. I would book again and recommend!

  • Dane Hayes
    Dane Hayes
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great fishing experience

    Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on April 18, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Had a great day out on the water with Captain JD Madden. You can tell right away he really knows the Delta he’s not just running spots, he understands how the fish move with the tides, weather, and pressure. Every move we made had a purpose, and he took the time to explain why we were fishing certain areas and what to look for. What stood out most was how dialed in he is with bass fishing in general. Whether it was switching up baits, adjusting presentation, or finding cleaner water, he stayed one step ahead the whole time. It didn’t feel like we were just hoping to get lucky he put us in the right position over and over again. He’s also easy to get along with, patient, and genuinely wants you to learn and catch fish. No ego, no rush just a solid guy who knows his stuff and enjoys what he does. If you’re thinking about fishing the Delta and want someone who actually understands it, JD’s your guy. I’d book with him again without hesitation.

  • Derek Meidinger
    Derek Meidinger
    us
    California, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Best trip ever!

    Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on October 12, 2026 • 2 adults • 1 child

    It was a great experience catching fish. my son and I had a great time catching bass and the most mosterous bluegill I have ever seen.

Rating

5.0
24 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (18)

All reviews (24)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 24 reviews
Bruce Burke
Bruce Burke
us
California, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
Met all of my expectations and more
8 Hour Trip on September 25, 2026 • 2 adults

My partner and I wanted to do more than catch fish. We are experienced fly fisherman who are older and wanted to continue fishing but needed as easier way to do that. My partner bought a Bass Pro boat to start us off. We asked JD, the captain, to focus more on the where, when, how, and techniques for largemouth bass more than catching fish. JD did all of that and we still caught fish. Hope to have another trip but focus on a different area. Highly recommended.

John Madden
Response from Captain

Thank you Bruce. Really enjoyed the time with you and John. We can absolutely go to any area of the Delta youd like to learn. Thanks again!

Paul Houser
Paul Houser
Repeat angler
us
California, US
Member since 2020
4 trips
5.0
Verified
Father/Son Fishing Trip
Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on May 31, 2026 • 1 adult • 1 child

Wanted to take my 6 year old son on a fishing trip and saw the option for kids intro to bass fishing for half day. Competitive price and half day is a great option for beginners so I booked it. JD was very responsive and helped us get a good date. Had to reschedule due to weather and it was easy and flexible. The trip itself was awesome! Clear directions, punctual, great boat, marina, and fishing location. JD was so friendly and patient while teaching my son, even after he tangled line multiple times. Ended up catching over a dozen fish! My son hasn’t stopped talking about the trip and can’t wait to go again.

Reported catch:
Largemouth Bass
John Madden
Response from Captain

Had an absolute blast!

Tod Gomes
Tod Gomes
us
California, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
New
First time fishing trip
Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on October 8, 2026 • 2 adults

I booked this trip for my son's birthday who has never caught a 'real' fish yet. Captain JD was great working with him explaining things very patient and his cast alone was noticeably better within the first 2 hours. We ended up catching a few fish each between the two of us. I would book again and recommend!

Reported catch:
Largemouth Bass
John Madden
Response from Captain

Very nice day fishing with this dad and his son. Teaching kids how to bass fish is my absolute favorite type of trip. we had success and am excited to see kids who love the outdoors.

Dane Hayes
Dane Hayes
us
California, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Great fishing experience
Kids Bass Fishing Introduction on April 18, 2026 • 1 adult • 1 child

Had a great day out on the water with Captain JD Madden. You can tell right away he really knows the Delta he’s not just running spots, he understands how the fish move with the tides, weather, and pressure. Every move we made had a purpose, and he took the time to explain why we were fishing certain areas and what to look for. What stood out most was how dialed in he is with bass fishing in general. Whether it was switching up baits, adjusting presentation, or finding cleaner water, he stayed one step ahead the whole time. It didn’t feel like we were just hoping to get lucky he put us in the right position over and over again. He’s also easy to get along with, patient, and genuinely wants you to learn and catch fish. No ego, no rush just a solid guy who knows his stuff and enjoys what he does. If you’re thinking about fishing the Delta and want someone who actually understands it, JD’s your guy. I’d book with him again without hesitation.

Reported catch:
Largemouth Bass
John Madden
Response from Captain

Had a great time today getting to know you and your son! really look forward to you both returning.

Eduardo Luna
Eduardo Luna
us
California, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Great day fishing on the delta.
4 Hour Trip – Targeted Tide on July 1, 2026 • 2 adults

Our guide was ready to go first thing in the morning. Within minutes of leaving the dock, we were fishing for large mouth bass. Our guide/captain was very knowledgeable and informative on fishing the Delta. He provided great instruction on techniques...rigs, casting, and setting the hook. We probably caught a dozen fish, including a 5lber. Overall my son and I had a great time fishing. Looking forward to next time.

John Madden
Response from Captain

Thanks for choosing TIDAL! had a great time with both of you! What a fish!

FAQs about Tidal Bass – CA Delta

Tidal Bass – CA Delta offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $350 per group - Kids Bass Fishing Introduction (4 hours)
  • US $400 per group - 4 Hour Trip – Targeted Tide (4 hours)
  • US $550 per group - 6 Hour Trip – Tide Switch (6 hours)
  • US $675 per group - 8 Hour Trip (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Tidal Bass – CA Delta, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS Garmin
  • Fishfinder Garmin with Livescope
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
Trips booked with Tidal Bass – CA Delta include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Lures
  • Drinks (Water and Soda provided )
Tidal Bass – CA Delta offers the following types of fishing:
  • River fishing (California Delta)
  • Lake fishing (Motherlode Lakes )
Tidal Bass – CA Delta offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Spinning
Top targeted fish species with Tidal Bass – CA Delta include:
  • Bass (Largemouth)

Your captain

John Madden
John Madden
Bethel Island, California, United States
9 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
24 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since March 2025
Angler's Choice
The Angler's Choice Award is given to listings that consistently deliver a high-quality service and earn great reviews from customers.
As a lifelong angler and successful Delta tournament fisherman I have recently retired from my career in the Fire Service and wanted to share my passion for bass fishing on the California Delta with others. We live directly on the water in Bethel Island. My son is a touring collegiate and professional angler fishing all of the major circuits so we are no longer competing regularly together which has freed up my time. I love to teach others how to approach the complex fishery and am confident you will enjoy your day on the water. Often it is a dream to fish the CA Delta for many anglers and I want to make that day memorable and full of success. I love to throw topwater, flip and punch for big bites.
John Madden
John Madden
Fully verified
Angler's Choice
9
reports
24
reviews
2025
member since
~1h
response
As a lifelong angler and successful Delta tournament fisherman I have recently retired from my career in the Fire Service and wanted to share my passion for bass fishing on the California Delta with others. We live directly on the water in Bethel Island. My son is a touring collegiate and professional angler fishing all of the major circuits so we are no longer competing regularly together which has freed up my time. I love to teach others how to approach the complex fishery and am confident you will enjoy your day on the water. Often it is a dream to fish the CA Delta for many anglers and I want to make that day memorable and full of success. I love to throw topwater, flip and punch for big bites.

The fish you can target

Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass

Real catches by this captain

  • Best trip ever!
    Derek M.
    Derek M.
  • October fishing trip
    Ivan D.
    Ivan D.
  • Fishing Frenzy
    Steve C.
    Steve C.
  • Great day fishing on the delta.
    Eduardo L.
    Eduardo L.
  • awesome trip
    Kevin M.
    Kevin M.
  • Father/Son Fishing Trip
    Paul H.
    Paul H.
  • John is the best!
    Leah I.
    Leah I.
  • Captain John was great! Great experience!
    Robert ".
    Robert ".
  • Had a blast today
    Jeremy H.
    Jeremy H.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Skiffs and flats boats
Capacity
2 persons
Boat length
21 ft
Year built
2023
Boat manufacturer
Phoenix
Boat type
Bass boat
Engine model
Mercury
Powered by
1 x 250HP
Max cruising speed
65 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

River Fishing
Lake Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Spinning

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Garmin
Fishfinder
Garmin with Livescope
Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Lures
Drinks
Water and Soda provided

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
Child friendly
I love to teach kids about bass fishing!
No smoking
No alcohol
Catch and release mandatory
All Largemouth Bass Catch Release

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 PayPal

What’s biting in Bethel Island right now

Bass (Largemouth)Bass (Largemouth)

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Tidal Bass – CA Delta
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