San Diego Fishing Charters

63 Fishing Charters

San Diego Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in San Diego
San Diego: 63 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
Coronado
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $699
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(224 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $800
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $699
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(81 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $500
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(88 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(13 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $900
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(119 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(129 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $1,200

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in San Diego

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in San Diego, California are: Full list of top fishing charters in San Diego

The average price for a private 4 hour San Diego fishing trip is $832, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,718 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in San Diego that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in San Diego are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in San Diego are:

The top 3 types of fishing in San Diego are:

Many fishing charters in San Diego provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in San Diego are:

Who are the top awarded captains in San Diego?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in San Diego are:
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ $548
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ $742
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ $925
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,021
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,506
  • 9-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,886
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,728
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ $2,330
  • 16-hour fishing trips โ€“ $3,000

San Diego fishing charters have been making anglers’ dreams a reality for decades. Renowned as a year-round fishery, America’s Finest City is home to one of the largest sportfishing fleets in the nation. That makes sense, considering that the city offers pretty much every form of fishing under the sun.

Just getting into the line and reel? San Diego Bay is the perfect place to start. These waters hold a variety of fish, from California Halibut and Spotted Bay Bass, to Bonefish. If you’re fishing with kids, the plentiful waters of Mission Bay are just a few miles away.
If you’re up for something a little more challenging, hit the open water for a chance at a delicious Yellowtail.

For anglers hungry for big fish, San Diego’s offshore fishing charters are just what the doctor ordered. These trips last between 8 and 12 hours, taking you to some of the area’s most productive fishing spots. During summer and early autumn, Catalina and San Clemente Islands attract insane numbers of Yellowtails, Dorado, and Yellowfin and Bluefin Tuna.

And if you’re looking for the catch of a lifetime, look no further than San Diego long range fishing charters. These deep sea adventures last anywhere from 3 days to 3 weeks, putting you on the most exciting big game the Pacific has to offer.

Most of the town’s charter fleet is moored in one of the local boat landings. The largest ones include Fisherman’s Landing, Point Loma Sportfishing, H&M Landing, and Helgren’s Sportfishing.

 

Rules & Regulations

Anglers age 16 or older must buy a California fishing license to fish in San Diego. That excludes any ocean fishing piers, but not inland cays and docks.

San Diego
Excellent
4.5 / 5
Based on 27952 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

January

The coldest month in San Diego, January is all about fishing for Sculpin, Ling, Bass, and Halibut. Seasonal closures for Rockfish slow down the fishing (regulations vary). Meanwhile, Trout season starts in the lakes.

February

Weather conditions can be unruly, with winds and high waves a possibility. In good conditions, you can get out to fish for Sculpin, Sand Bass, and Halibut, while Yellowtail can be caught around the Coronado Islands.

March

Fishing is still affected by wintery weather, with Groundfish being the main target. Head to the kelp beds to catch a Calico Bass or go to the flats for a Sand Bass, with Halibut still very good. This also prime time for Bass fishing.

April

Spring fishing continues, with Sand Bass fishing in the Bay being the top choice for shorter trips and longer trips taking you out to the Coronado Islands to target Calico Bass, White Seabass, and Yellowtail.

May

The fishing gradually starts to heat up, with some deep sea fishing trips beginning to leave San Diego. These will see you targeting Pacific Albacore, Bigeye Tuna, and Bluefin Tuna. Inshore, the Halibut season comes to a close.

June

More and more charters start running long range options, fishing waters 30-100 miles offshore for Bigeye and Bluefin Tuna, Albacore, Yellowtail, and Dorado. Conditions can be bumpy as the north winds stir the seas.

July

Finally, summertime fishing arrives in San Diego. Make the most of it while it is here! The June winds start to settle and overnight trips and longer will see you fishing anywhere from Catalina to the Coronado Islands and beyond.

August

The water is the warmest it will be all year, and with the warmth comes exotic species. Dorado and Yellowtail can be caught on a day trip if you are lucky. Albacore can still be caught to the north, to return south later in the month.

September

Warm water species are still available, with Halibut and Rockfish also starting to reappear on the cards. Marlin, Tuna, and Albacore can be caught close to shore in years when the waters are warm.

October

Fall sees amazing Yellowtail fishing, with some people considering it the best time of year to catch the species in San Diego. Large numbers are caught on local half day and overnight trips.

November

The warm water species have definitely left the area, with some overnight trips still taking you south to Mexican waters to follow them. Closer to home, your main targets will be Yellowtail, Rockfish, and Halibut.

December

Most charter boats run fewer long range trips at this time of year, although if you can take a long trip south to fish the Mexican waters, you will be in for a treat. Local day trips will target Rockfish, Halibut, and Calico Bass.

San Diego fishing calendar

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Be patient, be adaptable, follow TC's lead, ask questions, above all relax and have fun. Development of angling skills takes time. It's not an overnight success. If you are serious, jot down notes if you need to.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be patient, be adaptable, follow TC's lead, ask questions, above all relax and have fun. Development of angling skills takes time. It's not an overnight success. If you are serious, jot down notes if you need to.
Zechariah  B.
Zechariah B.
If you have never been on a boat follow the Captainโ€™s recommendation about motion sickness prevention. Tons of different fish species to catch.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you have never been on a boat follow the Captainโ€™s recommendation about motion sickness prevention. Tons of different fish species to catch.
Kenyon  R.
Kenyon R.
Action was good but not being able to keep Rockfish in October caught inshore is kind of bummer. But this charter did well to put us on keeper fish (whitefish) so still fun!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Action was good but not being able to keep Rockfish in October caught inshore is kind of bummer. But this charter did well to put us on keeper fish (whitefish) so still fun!
Michael  L.
Michael L.
There is always something biting in San Diego and anything is possible from rockfish to marlin.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
There is always something biting in San Diego and anything is possible from rockfish to marlin.
Shane  S.
Shane S. Oak Glen, CA
The weather is really nice and the water is clear. The people and the environment are very nice.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The weather is really nice and the water is clear. The people and the environment are very nice.
Wojciech  W.
Wojciech W. Schaumburg, IL
Be ready for a good fight fishing in San Diego. The captain and staff are very friendly attentive and have great communication on teaching and giving you tips to land the fish or multiple fish.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be ready for a good fight fishing in San Diego. The captain and staff are very friendly attentive and have great communication on teaching and giving you tips to land the fish or multiple fish.
Ari  T.
Ari T. Yuma, AZ
Definitely splurge on a charter. With just four guests, the crew was able to help us all individually. It was great fun!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Definitely splurge on a charter. With just four guests, the crew was able to help us all individually. It was great fun!
Wendy  M.
Wendy M. Claremont, CA
Itโ€™s cooler than expected this time of year. Dress in layers. Need Mexican and US fishing license. Bring passport in case fishing around Coronado islands.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Itโ€™s cooler than expected this time of year. Dress in layers. Need Mexican and US fishing license. Bring passport in case fishing around Coronado islands.
Luke  Y.
Luke Y. Rancho Cucamonga, CA
If you have flexibility in your dates, reach out to the Captain for recommendations on when to book.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you have flexibility in your dates, reach out to the Captain for recommendations on when to book.
Maggie  C.
Maggie C. Kathleen, GA
Plenty of sunblock. Calm waters in the bay but expect big swells if you go offshore.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Plenty of sunblock. Calm waters in the bay but expect big swells if you go offshore.
Marc  G.
Marc G. Geneva, FL
In December, fishing is weather dependent. Be prepared for a variety of conditions and dress accordingly.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
In December, fishing is weather dependent. Be prepared for a variety of conditions and dress accordingly.
Elizabeth  K.
Elizabeth K. Fort Worth, TX
Grind at finding fish and you will get on fish. Less boats out this time of the year which is awesome!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Grind at finding fish and you will get on fish. Less boats out this time of the year which is awesome!
Jamieson  M.
Jamieson M. United States
Couldnโ€™t ask for a better 1/2 day excursion. Fish were jumping in the boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Couldnโ€™t ask for a better 1/2 day excursion. Fish were jumping in the boat
Scott  Y.
Scott Y. Yorba Linda, CA
Speak with your captain prior to departure. Bring extra food and drinks if desired Make sure to check the weather to prepare properly
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Speak with your captain prior to departure. Bring extra food and drinks if desired Make sure to check the weather to prepare properly
Michael  T.
Michael T. Santa Ana, CA
The fishing boats depart promptly at their scheduled hour. Be EARLY or ON TIME for the trip.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The fishing boats depart promptly at their scheduled hour. Be EARLY or ON TIME for the trip.
Lance  S.
Lance S. United States
Donโ€™t hesitate to book with Pelican Sport fishing, you will not regret it. Captain Shaun will make sure you have a great time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Donโ€™t hesitate to book with Pelican Sport fishing, you will not regret it. Captain Shaun will make sure you have a great time.
Jayme  D.
Jayme D. Midvale, UT
Tuna fishing down here can always be a hit or miss, avoid those days after a full moon and you should be able to get on them.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Tuna fishing down here can always be a hit or miss, avoid those days after a full moon and you should be able to get on them.
Paul  B.
Paul B. Ontario, CA
The water is a bit murky from the red tide this time of year but the fishing was still lots of fun, especially around the wrecks. Dress warm, 60's on the water can be cool.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The water is a bit murky from the red tide this time of year but the fishing was still lots of fun, especially around the wrecks. Dress warm, 60's on the water can be cool.
Aaron  D.
Aaron D. Anaheim, CA
Dress for weather conditions and if you haven't been on the ocean before take some dramamine before and during your trip. Oh I also recommend using Good Times Fishing.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Dress for weather conditions and if you haven't been on the ocean before take some dramamine before and during your trip. Oh I also recommend using Good Times Fishing.
Shane  E.
Shane E. Mesa, AZ
First time for us so really don't have any advice other than charter with someone who fishes for a living and knows the spots!
Excellent
4.7 / 5
First time for us so really don't have any advice other than charter with someone who fishes for a living and knows the spots!
Bryan  H.
Bryan H. Topeka, KS

SD Slot Machine Charter
SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(81 reviews)
Couldnโ€™t ask for a better morning fish, thanks Captain Dan! Iโ€™ll see you again soon.
Steve  B.
Steve B.
SD Slot Machine Charter
SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(81 reviews)
We had a great time. Took my twin 9yr old boys and Dan made it a memorable experience. We caught 33 fish, 9 different species. We took a few of the sheepshead home and it made for a rewarding dinner. Will be back for sure.
Anthony  N.
Anthony N.
SD Slot Machine Charter
SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(81 reviews)
Capt. Dan is a great captain, very knowledgeable and a pleasure to fish with! He was very good with communication prior to the trip and very thorough. Next time I am in the area I will definitely go again!
John  C.
John C.
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(49 reviews)
Our captain was amazing at giving us a memorable and fun experience. We saw all sorts of wildlife and caught a fish every few minutes.
Robin  D.
Robin D.
TC's Fishing Adventures
TC's Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(34 reviews)
I had a great time with TC. He demonstrated his professionalism and skills while going that extra mile to ensure that I landed the fish efficiently. I had not fished for many years, and lacked the confidence, patience and determination needed to develop the art of angling again. After thoroughly following his lead, I was able to land several fish and I am determined more than ever to return come springtime for more. A job well done, TC! I am looking forward to getting back to deep sea fishing!
Zechariah  B.
Zechariah B.
Fernandez Charters
Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
Had a wonderful time with Captain Ian who would not rest until we hit our Lobster Limit! He answered any questions we had and gave us great insight on their techniques. Would recommend to anyone who wants to try!
Arianna  L.
Arianna L. Upland, California
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Captain AL was a pleasure to work with. He knew how to fish the area and put us on some good fish in the bay. Be sure to contact him before reserving your trip for any current specials! Thanks AL!
Shane  D.
Shane D.
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(15 reviews)
Captain Mike was fantastic to work with. He got a hold of me several days before the trip and briefed me on everything. He could not have been more accommodating and friendly. He had snacks and drinks on the boat and made sure we caught fish. We stayed out later at no extra charge just to make sure we could catch a few more fish. I would highly recommend it!
Bart  H.
Bart H.
Fernandez Charters
Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
Crew was great and knowledgeable. Didn't take long to get to the fish. Highly recommend ๐Ÿ‘Œ
Timothy  F.
Timothy F.
Good Times Sportfishing
Good Times Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(106 reviews)
Captain Phil was so kind and helpful with my boys (13 & 9) as they were new to this type of fishing and he did an outstanding job. Everyone caught multiple fish and the kids were absolutely delighted! What a fun family outing and would highly recommend Captain Phil and his boat to anyone!
Kenneth  J.
Kenneth J.
The Long Run Sportfishing
The Long Run Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(190 reviews)
I recommend the charter. We had a great half day of fishing and we all caught fish.
James  P.
James P.
Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(224 reviews)
Awesome trip to the Coronado islands! Had a great time with Captain Shaun. Super knowledgeable, professional, courteous, and took us to a bunch of spots with tons of fish bite(we caught 14 different species! ). If you are looking for a fishing charter, look no further, just go with Shaun. See my Google review for a more detailed info! Thanks again Shaun, you are amazing!
Helen  W.
Helen W.
SD Slot Machine Charter
SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(81 reviews)
Father, grandfather and son fishing trip. Weโ€™d never gone inshore fishing before. Amazing experience without having to give up an entire day! Caught fish within first 15 min on the water. Wanted yellow tail, but they were gone that day. Still caught 6 different species and plenty to take home for fish dinner! Captain Dan, weโ€™ll be back!
Reid  L.
Reid L.
Fernandez Charters
Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
Pablo was great! Communicated well, gave us options and recommendations for the day. Hit our limit of 30 rockfish and then cleaned them all for us. When we do another charter we will be back with him! Great value and great time!
Christo  M.
Christo M.
Wild Goose Fishing Charters
Wild Goose Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(129 reviews)
Great experience from the booking process to unloading our Yellow Fin from the boat and all stages of the trip in between. Trevor and Ernie were great to fish with and very professional. They got us on some good tuna and provided us great help and instruction when needed. I would strongly recommender the Wild Goose for your next San Diego fishing trip.
Clay  W.
Clay W.
Brothers Sport Fishing
Brothers Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(73 reviews)
Capt Travis was friendly, knowledgeable, and made sure we all had a great day on the water!
Elizabeth  W.
Elizabeth W.
Wild Goose Fishing Charters
Wild Goose Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(129 reviews)
We booked a short 5 hour charter. Trevor and Ernie greeted us at the boat. Took us out and let us fish. We caught about 30 fish in the short period of time. Our hooks were baited and the fish were handled for us but we were able to do as much as we wanted. No lack of action. Thanks guys.
Roy  H.
Roy H.
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Captain was very knowledgeable about the area and how to catch fish. Gave great advice and worked hard to help us catch fish.
Nick  L.
Nick L.
Brothers Sport Fishing
Brothers Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(73 reviews)
Had a great trip with Capt Nate, fishing conditions were extremely tough and he worked hard all day to find biting tuna for us. We caught good grade BFT and a beautiful Yellowfin tuna to end the trip. Equipment was in excellent condition with new line and all the live bait we needed to catch tuna on the offshore grounds.
Sean  S.
Sean S.
Awol Sportfishing
Awol Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(88 reviews)
Went with awol, Taylor. Got us on fish, everyone in our group caught. We book this without hesitation.
William  P.
William P.