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.