San Diego

60 Fishing Charters

San Diego Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in San Diego
San Diego: 60 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(20 reviews)
San Diego
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New on FishingBooker
San Diego
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Excellent
5.0 / 5
(165 reviews)
Coronado
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trips from $699
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(206 reviews)
San Diego
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trips from $975
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $900
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(83 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $500
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(70 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(122 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $1,200
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(117 reviews)
San Diego
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Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $425

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in San Diego

According to customer reviews, Diamond Dogs Charters, Fernandez Charters, and Risen Tide Sportfishing are some of the most popular fishing charters in San Diego, California. Full list of top fishing charters in San Diego.

The average price for a private 4 hour San Diego fishing trip is $848, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,749 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Diamond Dogs Charters, Fernandez Charters, and Risen Tide Sportfishing all received great reviews from families who booked fishing trips in San Diego.

The most popular fish species you can target are Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Bluefin Tuna, and Yellowfin Tuna. Top fishing techniques include Deep Sea Fishing, Trolling, and Bottom Fishing. Offshore fishing, inshore fishing, and nearshore fishing are commonly offered by local guides.

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 27689 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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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
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
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
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
It was a little early in the season for the bigger fish, but the water was great, the weather was warm enough and the fish were biting.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
It was a little early in the season for the bigger fish, but the water was great, the weather was warm enough and the fish were biting.
Stephanie  R.
Stephanie R. El Cajon, California
Capt and crew took care of us and we caught a lot of fish boat was comfortable and nice. I highly recommend them.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Capt and crew took care of us and we caught a lot of fish boat was comfortable and nice. I highly recommend them.
Michael  O.
Michael O. Oro Valley, AZ
Dress warm while out on the ocean, it was really cold for us coming from Arizona. The parking is not suited well in some places for large vehicles. Research where you will be staying for availability of parking and the size of space reserved for you.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Dress warm while out on the ocean, it was really cold for us coming from Arizona. The parking is not suited well in some places for large vehicles. Research where you will be staying for availability of parking and the size of space reserved for you.
Stan  G.
Stan G. Pima, AZ
We recommend fishing during the peak season. Allow plenty of time to find parking.
Very good
4.0 / 5
We recommend fishing during the peak season. Allow plenty of time to find parking.
Denice  E.
Denice E. Chandler, AZ
Dont always just book with the cheapest charter, look to see if theg have good quaility gear for you to use, reliable boat and knowledgeable of the area.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Dont always just book with the cheapest charter, look to see if theg have good quaility gear for you to use, reliable boat and knowledgeable of the area.
Dillion  A.
Dillion A. Seattle, WA

Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(206 reviews)
Captain Bobby was awesome and showed us all how to catch some fish. Great time
Robert  T.
Robert T. Riverside, California
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
We loved the trip and was a great time. Would recommend everyone to give it a try. We will be coming back!!!
Boe  S.
Boe S. San Diego, California
Awol Sportfishing
Awol Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(83 reviews)
Capt. Andrew tried hard to put us on the fish when it was a tough day. We ended catching Dorado and Yellow Fish Tuna. All of us were happy.
David  S.
David S. Trabuco Canyon, California
Fernandez Charters
Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
It was great! Captain Pablo was thorough and touched base before the trip. I felt prepared and informed! It was our boys first trip on the ocean and he made sure they were comfortable. He taught them techniques and they were able to catch some fish.
Moriah  R.
Moriah R. Williston, ND
KingTriton SportFishing - WiFi
KingTriton SportFishing - WiFi
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(26 reviews)
Captain Ian and Mick were amazing. We managed to land 6 nice yellowfins for the first time tuna fishing crews, and lost about 8-10 during the fight. Great Captain and we will definitely be back for more trips!
Haotian  W.
Haotian W. Los Angeles, California
Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(206 reviews)
I took my two daughters and their friend for a half day of coastal fishing and it could not have been any better. Captain Bobby was patient and informative telling us about the fish we were catching and helping us with our lines and gear. It was a day we wonโ€™t forget!
Scott  C.
Scott C. Riverside, California
TC's Fishing Adventures
TC's Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(32 reviews)
I was in town one extra day from a work trip and this sounded like the perfect opportunity to get a chance to fish. It was! Caught 6 different species of fish in my first ever west coast experience, and would love to come back and do another. TC loves to fish and loves people, a great combination.
Jason  R.
Jason R. OLD BROWNSBRO, KY
Awol Sportfishing
Awol Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(83 reviews)
My husband and I had an amazing time. Captain Tapylor was amazing. We will request him again name yeah. He made it very memorable for our 32nd wedding anniversary. Highly recommended! Thank you Awol you guys are awesome!
Roberta  K.
Roberta K. Queen Creek, AZ
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(20 reviews)
Had an amazing time with captain Al! He is a true fisherman who appreciates the art of fishing. The knowledge he has and provides is truly priceless. He knows when, where, and what to fish. All together my group of 4 caught over 40 fish. Such a great time and definitely will be doing this charter again. Iโ€™d recommend this trip to anyone and everyone. Thanks again Al!
Antonio  D.
Antonio D. San Diego, CA
KingTriton SportFishing - WiFi
KingTriton SportFishing - WiFi
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(26 reviews)
We had a great time with Captain Mike and crew. They are very knowledgeable. There were a lot of fish but was one of those days where they weren't biting. The boat is perfect for fishing. Very comfortable and smooth. Will definitely go again!
Jeff  E.
Jeff E. Moreno Valley, California
Awol Sportfishing
Awol Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(83 reviews)
Had a blast Chasing foamers all day the captain put us on fish just had a hard time getting a bite! Landed one bluefin about 30lbs on a popper. Can't wait to give it another go!
Ross  H.
Ross H. Phoenix, Arizona
No Patience Sportfishing
No Patience Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Great day, and persistent captains and mate!! Really went above and beyond to help our day be successful and special!! Appreciate their efforts!!
Benjamin  M.
Benjamin M. Indianapolis, IN
Bubba Jean Sportfishing
Bubba Jean Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(88 reviews)
Awesome trip with Captain Mike! Heโ€™s really knowledgeable, patient, down to earth and really easy to talk to! His equipment and boat are top notch. We had a really good time! 100% Will be booking again in the future!
Guillermo  R.
Guillermo R. El Paso, TX
Brothers Sport Fishing
Brothers Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(65 reviews)
Taylor was a knowledgeable captain who worked hard to get us to clear water with the right temp--- which took some time moving around ---- once conditions were right we found a kelp paddy and loaded up with limits of mahi --- other boats didnt fare as well ---- great trip!!!!
Richard  W.
Richard W. San Diego, California
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(20 reviews)
We had a great time! Captain Al is very knowledgeable and may sure we enjoyed our time on the water!
Robert  A.
Robert A. Shenandoah, TX
Wild Goose Fishing Charters
Wild Goose Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(122 reviews)
I had friends come in from around the world and they all wanted to go ocean fishing. We had an absolute blast onboard the Wild Goose with Ray and Trevor taking excellent care of everyone. Highly recommended and we will definitely come back.
Erik  H.
Erik H. North Bend, WA
Blackjack Sport Fishing
Blackjack Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(3 reviews)
Capt Steve and Josh will get you on fish. Both men are very personable and professional. Steve works with other boats who he shares, and they share the current day hotspots. The Blackjack is a solid fishing machine. Do not hesitate to book your next trip with Capt Steve and Josh on the Black Jack..
Daren  S.
Daren S. Derby, NY
Fernandez Charters
Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
Captain Pablo took me and my family fishing. Everyone caught fish including the kids. We had a blast. Would highly recommend. It was the perfect day. Canโ€™t wait to eat our catch!
David  H.
David H. Gilbert, AZ
Awol Sportfishing
Awol Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(83 reviews)
Professional, communicative, friendly and successful! I booked this for my husband, and son and uncertain (about a Whole day of fishing!) girlfriend. Everyone had a fantastic time!
Bettty  B.
Bettty B. Islesboro, Maine
San Diego Charters
San Diego Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(208 reviews)
Me and 4 friends had an incredible experience with Kevin. He squeezed action and adventure into each minute of the half day. I highly recommend this charter for anyone looking to enjoy the day out on the water and efficiently hit a bunch of different spots. We caught some sizable sand bass and enjoyed it on the grill for dinner!
Mac  L.
Mac L. Northfield, IL