San Francisco

19 Fishing Charters

Top Fishing Charters in San Francisco

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
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Based on 19486 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 Albacore Tuna, 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 Albacore Tuna, 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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Reviews of Fishing in San Francisco

Half day with Captain Ron and Hunter

Donna L. fished with Nautilus Excursions on July 28, 2019

Being your ice chests for the fish fillets you'll take home.

Full day trip

Bryan C. fished with Nautilus Excursions on July 13, 2019

Listen to the captain and mate and you'll hav the trip of a lifetime

Best Team-Building Event!

Jennifer D. fished with Nautilus Excursions on July 11, 2019

Beautiful weather and great views. It is cold on the water, though, so dress warm, as in a warm layer, windbreaker, and hat. Wear rain boots, if you have them. Put sunscreen on your face. Bring any personal items in a waterproof bag. If you plan to take photos, put your camera or phone in a zip-lock bag or waterproof case, because your hands will be full of fish scales and fish guts. Bring extra bags to carry your fish off the boat. Stock your car with an ice chest, for the drive home. If the fishing trip is in the Bay only, and not out in the open ocean, then the waves aren't very bad, so you shouldn't get sea sick. Or if you do, you only need the "less drowsy" version of your motion sickness medication. Have fun!

Half day bachelor trip with Brent and Greg.

Seaton N. fished with SF Boat Support on July 6, 2019

Be prepared with someone knowledge and just have fun.

Full day with captain David

Gary A. fished with Warrior Poet Sportfishing on May 19, 2019

Stay in the Bay if you think you may get sick.

Fishing Trip 042219

Christina W. fished with Warrior Poet Sportfishing on April 22, 2019

Beautiful day out on the Bay and got a good sunburn from it

Fishing with David

Dan B. fished with Warrior Poet Sportfishing on March 30, 2019

Bring layers. California doesn't always mean sunny and warm. But bring sunscreen too.