San Francisco Fishing Charters

The best out of 31 charter fishing deals in San Francisco - enter dates to check availability

San Francisco: 31 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(178 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $225
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(447 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $195
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(6 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $180
Excellent
4.5 / 5
(21 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $250
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(63 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from US $300
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(27 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from US $200
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(174 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from US $195
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(16 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from US $1,900
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(25 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $1,200
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(42 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from US $1,600

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in San Francisco

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

The average price for a private 4 hour San Francisco fishing trip is US $1,352, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,436 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

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

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

The top 3 fishing techniques in San Francisco are:

The top 3 types of fishing in San Francisco are:

Many fishing charters in San Francisco 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 Francisco are:

Who are the top awarded captains in San Francisco?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in San Francisco are:
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,440
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $498
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $520
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $824
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,080
  • 9-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $915
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $930
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $350

Fishing in San Francisco

Nothing can quite describe the beauty of San Francisco – you have to see it for yourself. Passionate anglers would say that superb fishing opportunities significantly add to the city’s charm, and it’s true, the very identity of San Francisco lies in its surrounding waters. The good news is that you can always hire one of the many San Francisco fishing charters to take you out.
 
As one of the largest estuaries on the West Coast, San Francisco Bay is teeming with a wide array of fish species. The prize catches include Chinook (King) Salmon, Striped Bass, Halibut, Lingcod, Sturgeon, as well as a dozen Shark species. Many of these guys stick around all year, so whenever you visit the Golden City, there’ll be something to target.
 
Cast a line from one of San Francisco’s many piers for Flounder, Perch, Skates, Rays, and Rockfish. You could also try fly fishing for Surfperch along various stretches of the beach. Only a few miles from the city center, you will find rivers, lakes, creeks, and reservoirs, perfect for freshwater adventures. There, anything from Bass and Trout to Catfish is in the cards.
 
When you pick a charter to your liking, it’s time to choose that perfect trip, and the offer is very diverse. You can go for a half day excursion around the bay, catching a mixed bag along the way. Some guides organize specialized expeditions, so you spend your day chasing Salmon, bottom fishing, crabbing, and even spearfishing.
 
The most popular spot to find San Francisco fishing charters is by far the magnificent Fisherman’s Wharf.
 

Rules & Regulations

Both freshwater and saltwater anglers over the age of 16 are required to have a valid California fishing license. Bear in mind that seasonality and regulations change annually. To make sure you're always fishing within the law, look for a reputable guide to lead the way.
San Francisco
Excellent
4.9 / 5
Based on 28443 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

San Francisco Fishing Seasons

January
Even in the dead of winter, coveted catches are biting! Winter in San Francisco is mild, which makes for some perfect fishing conditions. Fish the depths for Flounder and Halibut, and take home delicious fillets.
February
One of San Francisco’s many perks is its gorgeous weather year-round. In February, Leopard Shark, Halibut, and Flounder are biting. If Lady Luck is on your side, you might catch Striped Bass, too.
March
The Striped Bass are starting to bite more! Continue fishing for Leopard Shark, Halibut, and Flounder for memorable fishing moments on the water.
April
You know it's springtime when all the most desirable fish become available. Salmon season is still closed, but you can go after Sturgeon, Striped Bass, Lingcod, Rockfish, and more. Plenty to do in the bay and beyond!
May
Dinner table favorites are here to stay! Fish for Halibut, Salmon, Flounder, White Seabass, Striped Bass, Rockfish, and Lingcod. For a change of pace, go after Sturgeon and Leopard Sharks for sport.
June
This time of year is the reason why San Francisco is known for “potluck fishing.” Target White Seabass, Salmon, Striped Bass, Halibut, Rockfish, Lingcod, and Sturgeon. Delicious seafood feast anyone?
July
At the height of summer, you can land favorites like Halibut, Salmon, Striped Bass, Flounder, and White Seabass. Sturgeon, Rockfish, and Leopard Sharks are biting, too.
August
More of that magic summer fishing, when almost everything is biting! Catch Striped Bass, White Seabass, Salmon, Flounder, Lingcod, Halibut, and more. Whatever you’re in the mood for, it’s out there in August.
September
The summertime crew is still biting! Chinook Salmon, Halibut, White Seabass, Rockfish, Lingcod, and Striped Bass are all on the menu. The weather is divine and you'll see some of the biggest Lingcod and Salmon of the season.
October
This is your chance to freely target everything that's biting in the bay while you still can! Fish for Halibut, Salmon, White Seabass, Rockfish, Lingcod, Striped Bass and Flounder. Make this last hurrah count!
November
Salmon is closed for the season and the Striped Bass won't be biting as hard. But plenty of other fish are still around, including Halibut, Rockfish, and Lingcod. Set a few traps for Dungeness Crab on your way out.
December
Just because summer is over doesn't mean great fishing has to be! Flounder, Halibut, Rockfish, Lingcod, Sturgeon, and Leopard Shark are in season. It might be chilly on the water, but the action will keep you warm.

San Francisco Fishing Calendar

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Featured photos from San Francisco

What anglers said about fishing in San Francisco

The fish we caught were fillet by the first mate. They were absolutely delicious. Thank you so much.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The fish we caught were fillet by the first mate. They were absolutely delicious. Thank you so much.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Weather was perfect for a T shirt and jeans or a lightweight sweater. 10 out 10 would recommend
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Weather was perfect for a T shirt and jeans or a lightweight sweater. 10 out 10 would recommend
SF Boat Support
SF Boat Support
Great fishing boat and expert Captain. Arrive to dock at least 30 minutes early for best parking.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Great fishing boat and expert Captain. Arrive to dock at least 30 minutes early for best parking.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
All the fish you want to catch are spawning and hitting and being caught at this time of year. Book charters out of san fran in july/august
Excellent
5.0 / 5
All the fish you want to catch are spawning and hitting and being caught at this time of year. Book charters out of san fran in july/august
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing East McKeesport, PA
Bring sunscreen, windblazer, snacks, and friends to relax with as you all wait for the bite.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring sunscreen, windblazer, snacks, and friends to relax with as you all wait for the bite.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing Cottage Grove, MN
Actually speak with the captain and make sure you know where you're fishing and what you're fishing for.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Actually speak with the captain and make sure you know where you're fishing and what you're fishing for.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing Red Bluff, CA
It's not like fishing for bluegill or other varieties in technique listen to the captain and you will do great!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
It's not like fishing for bluegill or other varieties in technique listen to the captain and you will do great!
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing North Las Vegas, Nevada
Halibut! Lots of them. HUGE!!! Leaving from Fisherman's Wharf passing Alcatraz, seeing the sun come up over the east bay ills, watching the yacht regatta, passing all the freighters and cruise ships, going under the bridges, seeing the rising sun reflected off the skyscrapers; it's a gorgeous place to catch BIG fish.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Halibut! Lots of them. HUGE!!! Leaving from Fisherman's Wharf passing Alcatraz, seeing the sun come up over the east bay ills, watching the yacht regatta, passing all the freighters and cruise ships, going under the bridges, seeing the rising sun reflected off the skyscrapers; it's a gorgeous place to catch BIG fish.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing San Jose, CA
Leave early to account for traffic delays and bring windproof jacket just in case.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Leave early to account for traffic delays and bring windproof jacket just in case.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing Pacific House, CA
It's windy and cold out there in the pacific, so wear good windbreaker and warm clothes.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
It's windy and cold out there in the pacific, so wear good windbreaker and warm clothes.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing Palo Alto, CA
Bring layers. California doesn't always mean sunny and warm. But bring sunscreen too.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring layers. California doesn't always mean sunny and warm. But bring sunscreen too.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
The Fall is the summer in San Francisco and the Bay is teeming with fish!!! You can't go wrong.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The Fall is the summer in San Francisco and the Bay is teeming with fish!!! You can't go wrong.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions Emeryville, CA
If your unsure of your sea legs, take a motion sickness medication. Be prepared for Karl to take your sight of land. Have your camera ready for some sensational photos. Prepare for weather and a healthy appetite to consume your catch.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If your unsure of your sea legs, take a motion sickness medication. Be prepared for Karl to take your sight of land. Have your camera ready for some sensational photos. Prepare for weather and a healthy appetite to consume your catch.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions Maddington, Western Australia
Be sure to go over parking in advance with your Captain. With all the tourists, it can be difficult to find areas to park without a permit.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be sure to go over parking in advance with your Captain. With all the tourists, it can be difficult to find areas to park without a permit.
Reel Time Charters, LLC
Reel Time Charters, LLC Modesto, California
Bring a jacket because it gets pretty windy. Bring some snacks if you plan on doing the full day.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring a jacket because it gets pretty windy. Bring some snacks if you plan on doing the full day.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing Fernley, NV
Layer up for the weather. It was chili out on the ocean. There were a couple of extra jackets on the boat (and the captain offered my wife a blanket and pillow when she was falling asleep in the cabin) but it's always nice to have your own stuff. Sunblock!!!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Layer up for the weather. It was chili out on the ocean. There were a couple of extra jackets on the boat (and the captain offered my wife a blanket and pillow when she was falling asleep in the cabin) but it's always nice to have your own stuff. Sunblock!!!
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing Auburn, CA
Book a trip on the Warrior Poet. Capt. Dave King will do his best to assure that you have a good time. He's very knowledgeable and will get you on the fish quickly
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book a trip on the Warrior Poet. Capt. Dave King will do his best to assure that you have a good time. He's very knowledgeable and will get you on the fish quickly
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing San Francisco, California
Salmon fishing needs a long ride toward the ocean, so not very pleasurable for people susceptible to sea sickness. Prepare well before the trip, probably by limiting your meal before the trip and take some pills to combat the motion sickness. Wear thick clothes as well because it could be quite windy even in a sunny afternoon.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Salmon fishing needs a long ride toward the ocean, so not very pleasurable for people susceptible to sea sickness. Prepare well before the trip, probably by limiting your meal before the trip and take some pills to combat the motion sickness. Wear thick clothes as well because it could be quite windy even in a sunny afternoon.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing Palo Alto, CA
Fish with an experienced captain, like Craig Hanson. He knows the water, knows where the fish are likely to be, and has the correct tackle and bait.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Fish with an experienced captain, like Craig Hanson. He knows the water, knows where the fish are likely to be, and has the correct tackle and bait.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing Sunbury-on-Thames, ENG
Dress in layers, can get a little chilly out on the bay.Rubber boots are nice but not needed .
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Dress in layers, can get a little chilly out on the bay.Rubber boots are nice but not needed .
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Sole-Man Sportfishing Roseville, California

How did anglers rate fishing charters in San Francisco?

Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
The captain and his crew were very helpful specially because we had no experience and they were patient with us. Iโ€™m glad we went with The Argo.
Sonia  Z.
Sonia Z.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
We had a bast! Great Captain, great First Mate! We went several places in both San Pablo and San Francisco Bays and caught a lot of fish. We also had a lot of fun! Going to go with this boat and crew again. Canโ€™t wait!
Randy  R.
Randy R.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(447 reviews)
My two sons wanted to catch something in the bay, especially leopard shark. Weather was windy and water conditions muddy. However, Dave and Neil were great and got us into sharks despite the poor conditions. My boys had a wonderful experience. We would definitely fish with them again!
Chris  L.
Chris L.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
We caught so many fish within the first hour. Captain took us to a spot that didnโ€™t disappoint. The crew was amazing. Very helpful and even gave us some historical facts of monuments near by. Captain and First mate were extremely friendly and funny. Both did the impossible to have kept us comfortable and happy. It was an amazing unforgettable memory. Thank you for everything.
Norma  B.
Norma B.
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Captain Don put us on the sharks. Niced sized sharks. It's a good day on the water!
Richard  H.
Richard H.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
The captain and crew were great. They were very knowledgeable and super nice!
Frank  L.
Frank L.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
Super fun adventure learning to fish in the Bay. Captain Craig was a great teacher. Reeled in several striped bass and a flounder, and enjoyed a great outing starting at Fishermanโ€™s wharf cruising into San Pablo Bay. Highly recommend
Hank  R.
Hank R.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(178 reviews)
The crew was kind and helpful, and patient with our young son. They changed their trip plans to accommodate us. Great day!
Freddie  M.
Freddie M.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
Very fun trip, exceeded our expectations. Captain and crew was very attentive and patient. Not to mention all the fish we caught
Jining  H.
Jining H.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
Had a really special day with Captain David and his talented deckhand Neil. The weather was rainy and a bit of wind, but they really worked together as a team and were able to put us on some fish, and show off their navigational skills in low visibility dark and rainy conditions, while making the trip fun and having great conversation.
David  M.
David M.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(178 reviews)
Embarking on this fishing journey from SF with Captain Ron was an absolute blast! The fun-filled atmosphere added an extra layer of enjoyment. Not only did we revel in the stunning views, but we also triumphantly reeled in crabs and striped bass. Success was sweet, making this trip an exhilarating and memorable fishing escapade. Highly recommend for both the seasoned angler and those seeking a lively aquatic adventure!
Eve  Z.
Eve Z.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
We caught fish on our trip, but not as many as we originally hoped. Nonetheless, it was a great day on the water and the few fish we did catch were from a variety of species. We got to learn about a โ€œshovel nosed guitar fishโ€. We saw bat rays, leopard sharks and 7 gill sharks up close. The captain and crew member were friendly and accommodating and the boat was clean and well maintained.
Roger  H.
Roger H.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
We enjoyed our trip with my Father in Law, son and brother. Captain David and Neil were professional and helpful to help us enjoy the trip. They helped us always getting ready for the next fish! The bay is a beautiful place to bring family and fish.
Elmer  M.
Elmer M.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(178 reviews)
A lot of action catching stripers and perch today! Caught limits of big crab and while the crab hoops were being hauled up, received an unexpected treat of seeing whales breaching. A nice way to cap a beautiful day! The seas were calm and the thought of bringing the bounty of riches caught that day brought a smile to all! Does it get any better?
Steve  K.
Steve K.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
Had a great half day trip fishing for striped bass as a solo angler with three others. Captain Craig and Brandon were great, very attentive and went the extra mile to ensure our half day was memorable ๐Ÿ‘
John  A.
John A.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
Captain and crew knowledgeable and fun. All supplied tackle worked great. Caught fish and had assistance when needed. Fish cleaned and bagged quickly. Great day on the water.
Henry  L.
Henry L.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
We had a great time fishing for striped bass and halibut. Craig took us up and down the bay and found some great spots to fish. The professionalism is great and we greatly enjoyed our fishing outing!
Webber  X.
Webber X.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
We caught halibut and striped bass in the Bay. Great views, captain and crew were on time, put us on fish right away, and were pleasant to hang out with. I've gone twice with them now and would highly recommend.
Jacob  T.
Jacob T.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
Great boat & crew for this trip. Tried for halibut, not biting, moved on to striped bass, caught loads, even a leopard shark. Had a great time.
Thomas  L.
Thomas L.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(447 reviews)
Absolutely great trip caught limit in stripped bass then I caught a 20lb Leopard shark,great time.Captin David and crew were ready to help in anyway you needed. Will do this again with them.
Richard  R.
Richard R.

Top Fishing Techniques in San Francisco

Top Targeted Species in San Francisco

Nearby Fishing Destinations