San Francisco

28 Fishing Charters

San Francisco Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in San Francisco
San Francisco: 28 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(157 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $225
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(367 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $195
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(4 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $200
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(16 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from $200
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(41 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from $1,600
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
San Francisco
trips from $120
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from $1,900
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(2 reviews)
Berkeley
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $200
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(150 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from $195
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(16 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $1,100

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in San Francisco

According to customer reviews, Nautilus Excursions, Warrior Poet Sportfishing, and Deadliest Kast Sport Fishing are some of the most popular fishing charters in San Francisco, California. Full list of top fishing charters in San Francisco.

The average price for a private 4 hour San Francisco fishing trip is $1,438, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,652 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Nautilus Excursions, Warrior Poet Sportfishing, and Deadliest Kast Sport Fishing all received great reviews from families who booked fishing trips in San Francisco.

The most popular fish species you can target are Striped Bass, Halibut, and Rockfish. Top fishing techniques include Heavy Tackle, Trolling, and Bottom Fishing. Inshore fishing, offshore fishing, and nearshore fishing are commonly offered by local guides.

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
4.6 / 5
Based on 25956 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

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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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.
Syed  M.
Syed M. 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.
Dan  B.
Dan B.
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.
Michael  F.
Michael F. 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.
FishingBooker Member
FishingBooker Member Maddington, Western Australia
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.
Chase  B.
Chase B. 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!!!
Wallace  C.
Wallace C. 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
Baldwin  L.
Baldwin L. 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.
Sheng  G.
Sheng G. 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.
Christopher  T.
Christopher T. 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 .
Douglas  W.
Douglas W. Roseville, California
When leaving, be prepared for traffic out of there..it could take a while..worth the drive over of course..patience..
Excellent
5.0 / 5
When leaving, be prepared for traffic out of there..it could take a while..worth the drive over of course..patience..
Larry  B.
Larry B. Vallejo, CA
Morning tends to be best because of the tides, and the weather is sometimes better then, too. More fish are available starting around May.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Morning tends to be best because of the tides, and the weather is sometimes better then, too. More fish are available starting around May.
Jacqueline  R.
Jacqueline R. Benicia, CA
A total new experience for us who are used to living in tropical countries. The weather, the range of fish, the environment, etc... Fantastic experience.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
A total new experience for us who are used to living in tropical countries. The weather, the range of fish, the environment, etc... Fantastic experience.
Kelvin  C.
Kelvin C. Los Angeles, California
Don't expect too much except an enjoyable day with a great Capt and spectacular views and weather. Fish were not as cooperative but Dave did his best and we caught fish.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Don't expect too much except an enjoyable day with a great Capt and spectacular views and weather. Fish were not as cooperative but Dave did his best and we caught fish.
Lynn  B.
Lynn B. San Francisco, California
Make sure you have warm clothes,weather can be unpredictable.The views are unbelievable.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Make sure you have warm clothes,weather can be unpredictable.The views are unbelievable.
Charles  L.  H.
Charles L. H. Merced, California
Avoid the party boats at Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf. Look for the 6-pack boats like Warrior poet, Flash Sportfishing, Argo Sportfishing and you will have much better experience.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Avoid the party boats at Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf. Look for the 6-pack boats like Warrior poet, Flash Sportfishing, Argo Sportfishing and you will have much better experience.
Stevan  K.
Stevan K. San Francisco, California
Talk to your Captain, if he is good taking his advise will make it a great trip.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Talk to your Captain, if he is good taking his advise will make it a great trip.
Kameron  P.
Kameron P. Carmichael, California

Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
By far one of the best fishing experiences we have had! Absolutely amazing people and everyone was super nice! These guys know how to have a great time and provide an even better experience for their customers. We will be back for more!!
William  B.
William B. Lancaster, CA
Deadliest Kast Sport Fishing
Deadliest Kast Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(4 reviews)
Steve is professional, fun, experienced and is a great fisherman full of knowledge that is more than happy to share. This was the first time I went out fishing for sturgeon and I cannot WAIT to go back! Steve made it very easy for our crew to enjoy ourselves. Well worth the trip!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Jonathan  R.
Jonathan R. San Francisco, California
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
Captain and crew did an amazing job. Fishing was slow at first but they made sure we found fish. 10/10
Andrew  T.
Andrew T. Cudjoe Key, FL
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
The crew knew their stuff, kept things fun, and worked hard to put us on fish and keep the equipment in working order.
Charley  T.
Charley T. Washington, Illinois
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
First time Fishing in San Francisco Bay..Had a great time.. Great experienced !! Thx to Warrior Poet Sportfishing .. Thx Capt David and Bradley!! Till Next Time
Linh  T.
Linh T. Beaumont, TX
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
Caught a few things 2 sharks and 6 rays in four hours not shabby . Could have chummed the area a bit more for the price. Could have easily increase the total caught or bigger sharks.
Andrew  B.
Andrew B. Scottsdale, AZ
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
Great crew. Great experience. I would highly recommend this crew and boat to anyone.
Devon  S.
Devon S. San Francisco, California
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(157 reviews)
We all had a great time. Captain Ron and his first mate Hunter know where and how to catch the fish. They helped every step of the way. We caught 14 good size fish. We had fish tacos when we got home. The fillets were beautiful with a very delicate flavor.
John  B.
John B. Medina, OH
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
We had the most fun we have ever had on a vacation! We would love to do this trip again and again! The ship was wonderful! Captain Dave was amazing! If you ever wanted to even try to fish .... do it!! Highly recommend!
Peter  N.
Peter N. Lakewood, NY
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
I'm glad that we choose Sole Man for our fishing trip out of San Fransisco. Capt. Don and his crew were very courteous and knowledgeable also worked hard to put us on the fish. I would recommend using SoleMan and would use him again in future.
David  H.
David H. Tracy, California
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
Great time around the Bay. Almost hit limit on Rockfish by noon. Got Halibut then had fun chasing Stingray. Even got to feed "Lefty" back at the docks...
Colin  S.
Colin S. Richardson, TX
SF Boat Support โ€“ Bravo
SF Boat Support โ€“ Bravo
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
Trip was great ๐Ÿ‘ Captain Brent and Alex were very professional and very kind, we are enjoyed the trip and had lots of fun! Everything was prepared in advance! I highly recommended this boat ๐Ÿšข
Marietta  S.
Marietta S. Citrus Heights, CA
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(157 reviews)
Captain Ron is very knowledgeable about the fish of SF bay, how to locate and how to catch! Captain Ron and deckhand of the Nautilus really put out the effort to ensure everyone has a great experience and maximize opportunity to connect with first hand fishing experiences.
Donald  G.
Donald G. Pleasanton, CA
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
Caught 3 halibut and a stingray. Super fun. Hope to go again. Also, great water views of the ballpark, city, bridge(s), bay, and the Warriors arena. We ate one halibut that same day that a local restaurant is willing to cook for you ($15/serving).
Benjamin  B.
Benjamin B. Eagle Mountain, UT
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
In short, a fabulous day in the company of friends and the kindness and experience of Captain Don and his first officer Jhon, we recommend it 100% and soon we will be planning another trip but 10 hours with Sole Man
Jose  V.
Jose V. San Leandro, CA
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
Our third time going fishing with Captain David and it is always a special awesome experience!
Darcie  P.
Darcie P. Vallejo, CA
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
Really enjoyed the day. All arranged very well and a nice mix of catches (bat-rays and halibuts).
HF Van Den Boomen
HF Van Den Boomen Daly City, California
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(157 reviews)
We did a morning half day and we were on the fish within 45 minutes. We had 8 of us and we all caught at least 1 fish. We had 10 keepers at the end of our time. The boat was nice and the deck hand was a big help. We all had a great time.
Alex  S.
Alex S. McCarran, NV
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(157 reviews)
I purchased a full day trip as a gift for my husband. He and his friends had an amazing time. I was worried about making Ron uncomfortable with how my husband and his friends act like grown children when around each other but he held his own and was quick witted making the trip that much more memorable. At the end of our trip we had the opportunity to feed a couple of Sea lions. We will definitely be booking with him again. Thank you captain Ron and Hunter for an amazing time.
Amanda  C.
Amanda C. Fresno, CA
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(367 reviews)
My kid caught a ton of rockfish on a morning half day. Dave and crew were super cool and it felt like you were hanging with family, not some dude you just hired. This guy lives for fishing and we would go with him again and probably will next time we visit the Bay Area. Shared trip and the other two people we were with were gracious and wonderful. Really a great experience.
Christopher  B.
Christopher B. United States

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