Bay Area Fishing Charters

37 Fishing Charters

Bay Area Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Bay Area

Top Bay Area Destinations

Bay Area: 37 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
Bethel Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $500
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(176 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $225
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(25 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $1,200
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(61 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $225
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $300
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(61 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(439 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $195
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(5 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $175
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(11 reviews)
Pittsburg
trips from $125
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(171 reviews)
San Francisco
trips from $195

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Bay Area

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Bay Area are: Full list of top fishing charters in Bay Area

The average price for a private 4 hour Bay Area fishing trip is $1,110, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,298 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in Bay Area that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Bay Area are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in Bay Area are:

The top 3 types of fishing in Bay Area are:

Many fishing charters in Bay Area 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 Bay Area are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Bay Area?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Bay Area are:
  • Extended fishing trips โ€“ $2,250
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ $725
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ $519
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ $570
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ $732
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ $777
  • 9-hour fishing trips โ€“ $685
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,292
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ $350

If you’re looking for a fishing destination that combines stunning nature, vibrant culture, and diverse angling possibilities, the Bay Area is where to go. You can cast a line here year-round and catch something you’ll want to write home about. Add to that the sheer number of Bay Area fishing charters that can help you find your trophy, and you’re in for an adventure.
 
There are more productive spots here than you could ever explore, and choosing where to go will depend on what you’d like to target. Freshwater fishing for Sturgeon, Striped Bass, and Salmon is excellent and will have you coming back for more. Alternatively, treat yourself to top-notch Chinook Salmon, Halibut, Rockfish, and Lingcod – you won’t be disappointed.
 
The amazing thing about the Bay Area is that anything from fly fishing to deep sea fishing is an option. You can see fishermen coming here in the fall, looking to hook their biggest Albacore Tuna yet. Sharks are also in the cards and, while Leopard Shark is the most common catch, you can find 10 other Shark species in the bay.
 
Going out to the prolific local waters with a professional guide has its own set of perks. There’s usually a wide array of fishing trips to choose from, which is good news for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Half day excursions are recommended for families and newcomers – they’re a lot of fun and very educational. Full day expeditions and specialized trips are a great choice for avid trophy chasers.
 
You can find Bay Area fishing charters pretty much everywhere you go, including Bodega Bay, San Francisco, Half Moon Bay, Sausalito, Pittsburg, Berkeley, and Richmond.
 

Rules & Regulations

All anglers age 16 and older must bring their own California fishing license. If you’re not familiar with the ever-changing regulations of the bay, it’s a good idea to go fishing with a guide who will make sure you have fun without breaking the rules.

Bay Area
Excellent
4.5 / 5
Based on 27950 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

January
In January, it’s all about Sturgeon fishing in the California Delta. Fly anglers can enjoy great success in the lakes and reservoirs, fishing for Bass, Catfish, and more.
February
There are possibilities everywhere you look at this time of year, including Sturgeon in the Delta, Leopard Sharks in the Bay, Bass in the local lakes, and winter Steelhead in the Sacramento River. 
March
Winter fishing continues in the Bay Area, with many charter boats making good use of the Delta as they scour the bottom for Sturgeon. The prime season for deep sea fishing is just around the corner.
April
The season for Lingcod and Rockfish typically opens in April. Salmon may be available as well, but you won’t find many of these fish in San Francisco Bay just yet, since most of them are still feeding offshore.
May
With average temperatures hovering between 50-70°F, May is a wonderful time to get out on the water! The waters offshore are bustling with Salmon, Lingcod, and Rockfish. That’s a promise of a delicious dinner in the near future!
June
This is potluck season when you don’t know what you might reel in, but excitement is high! Salmon and Rockfish are appearing close to the coast, while Halis, Stripers, and White Seabass are abundant all over the place.
July
You can expect some of the hottest weather of the year in July, but that doesn’t stop anyone from hitting the water. Anglers are catching some of the biggest Salmon of the year, and the rest of the fish aren’t bad either!
August
More and more Albacore Tuna are showing up and drawing anglers to the offshore fishing grounds. There’s no better time to experience the variety of the Bay than August when all the fish are biting vigorously.
September
Stellar fishing continues here in the Bay Area, along with mild weather and calm waters. Head offshore and land a Tuna, or explore the Bay and see what a little potlucking brings you.
October
If you’ve had your fill of the Bay, try your luck in the local lakes and rivers instead. Salmon fishing is in full swing in the Sacramento River, with some real lunkers making their grand entrance.
November
Salmon are closed for harvest on the coast, but you can still catch them in Sac River through the end of the year. Some anglers will continue fishing the Bay, while others will head back to the Delta.
December
December is a great time for fishing if you don’t mind a little chill in the air! The Delta offers plenty of hard-fighting Sturgeon while the ocean holds Halibut, Lingcod, Rockfish, and Crab.

Bay Area fishing calendar

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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
Julian  T.
Julian T.
Get upstanding about parking and the time you need to be so that you are not to early
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Get upstanding about parking and the time you need to be so that you are not to early
Floyd  R.
Floyd R.
A nice captain and a well run boat BUT the captain is a chain smoker and in the confines of the forward cabin we found that a MAJOR problem.
Excellent
4.3 / 5
A nice captain and a well run boat BUT the captain is a chain smoker and in the confines of the forward cabin we found that a MAJOR problem.
Brian  T.
Brian T.
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.
Eric  S.
Eric S.
Good options with lots of parking and cleaning areas. Dock and location wasn't packed or rushed.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Good options with lots of parking and cleaning areas. Dock and location wasn't packed or rushed.
Matt  J.
Matt J. Milpitas, CA
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
Francis  M.
Francis M. East McKeesport, PA
Go with a positive attitude fishing is fishing and can go either way just have a great time.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Go with a positive attitude fishing is fishing and can go either way just have a great time.
Jesse  G.
Jesse G. CEDAR E BETHL, MN
Make sure you have warm clothes on. Take something for motion sickness because the water is VERY choppy.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Make sure you have warm clothes on. Take something for motion sickness because the water is VERY choppy.
Anthony  F.
Anthony F. Holt, MI
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.
Kaonoi  V.
Kaonoi V. Cottage Grove, MN
If you are fishing the area for the first time, don't hesitate to book with Captain Frank. You will be glad you did.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you are fishing the area for the first time, don't hesitate to book with Captain Frank. You will be glad you did.
Robert  J.
Robert J. Stockton, CA
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.
Marc  D.
Marc D. Red Bluff, CA
The fishing on SF Bay is the same as anywhere.except if there not biting great you get some iepic views of the bay! Some days are better fishing than others so hope for the best and enjoy the day!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The fishing on SF Bay is the same as anywhere.except if there not biting great you get some iepic views of the bay! Some days are better fishing than others so hope for the best and enjoy the day!
David  N.
David N. Felton, 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!
Audra  S.
Audra S. North Las Vegas, Nevada
Hire John and he'll put you where it gives you the best chance to land the fish you're looking for.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Hire John and he'll put you where it gives you the best chance to land the fish you're looking for.
Joseph  S.
Joseph S.
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.
Matt  K.
Matt K. 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.
Seth  D.
Seth D. Pacific House, CA
Be prepared for a high temperatures and power fishing. Knowing how to use baitcasting equipment is a must.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be prepared for a high temperatures and power fishing. Knowing how to use baitcasting equipment is a must.
Kingsway  L.
Kingsway L. West Menlo Park, CA
If you've never fished the Delta, this is a great starting point. All services available. June was a bit tough because of the post spawn, but whether or not you catch fish, being on this water is a treat. Beautiful place!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you've never fished the Delta, this is a great starting point. All services available. June was a bit tough because of the post spawn, but whether or not you catch fish, being on this water is a treat. Beautiful place!
Tom  K.
Tom K. Cayucos, CA
Give time to get there as there was some construction at Marina that can be confusing.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Give time to get there as there was some construction at Marina that can be confusing.
Itza  S.
Itza S. Castro Valley, California
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

Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Bodega Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(30 reviews)
Met up with Captain Ty and Deckhand Nick, great hard working guys who took care of everything. Had them cooked, cleaned and ready for transport to SoCal. Great 1st time experience for my wife and I. Will be retiurning for next year. Thanks Guys!
Kiyo  N.
Kiyo N.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(176 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.
Addictive Sport Fishing
Addictive Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
We had such a great day in the Bay! Caught 7 Sturgeon!!! Canโ€™t wait to go back out on
Christopher  H.
Christopher H.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Captain, crew, boat are all fantastic. Canโ€™t wait to go out with them again.
Patrick  R.
Patrick R.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Very good
3.3 / 5
(61 reviews)
First nice people and nice boat. Wouldn't let us throw a line and watched them crab for 4 hours. Felt like we paid for them to catch their limits in crab. We booked the night before then they called 6am day of trip and acted like they were doing us a favor. We are avid fishermen and have been on 20+charters. This was by far the most disappointing and boring one yet. They would hardly let us even throw a line. I think I would spend the $1800 on another charter
Christy  E.
Christy E.
SF Boat Support โ€“ Bravo
SF Boat Support โ€“ Bravo
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
Brent and Lucas are super accommodating, very kind and knowledgeable. Great conversationalists. We had a blast on the water and learning about the region and fishing even through we got skunked!
Sarah  B.
Sarah B.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(176 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
(171 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.
Help U Fish
Help U Fish
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Wow what a great trip even for just half a day of fishing. Captain Anthony knows where to fish and how to teach people to fish. Amazing trip and will definitely be going back for a full day. Thank you Captain Anthony for everything and helping me catch the biggest Halibut and my first Halibut๐Ÿค™๐Ÿป
Elijah  S.
Elijah S.
Addictive Sport Fishing
Addictive Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
John and his deck hand Johnny were amazing. They both have great personalities and were cracking jokes with us non stop. We all hit our limits on Dungeness and they had us on the rockfish right after. They went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time and our freezers were stocked. Already I have recommended to people and wanted to make sure to write a review!
Chris  B.
Chris B.
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service
Fishing charter in Bethel Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
Frank is great! Very skilled and he loves to teach others. I had never thrown a bait caster and by the end of the day Frank had me casting like a pro. I believe the fish count between the three of us was 19. We will be back to fish with Frank again. Thanks Frank!
Bobby  R.
Bobby R.
Pacific Angler Sportfishing
Pacific Angler Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Alameda
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(6 reviews)
The Captain and deckhand were very helpful, professional, friendly, and provided the expertise that enabled us to catch our limit. We got home in time for me to cook a great meal. Several more great meals to come.
Craig  B.
Craig B.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Took my 7 year old daughter out with Captain Sean and his wife Angie. They made the perfect trip for us, my daughter was all smiles and was super stoked!
Daniel  W.
Daniel W.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Awesome time daughter and grandson. Captain Sean and crew were fantastic and very accommodating. We will book again, and so should you.
James  T.
James T.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(171 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.
SF Boat Support
SF Boat Support
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
We caught two delicious halibut on the crew's boat. The crew were extremely friendly, knowledgeable and helpful to our party. The crew seem to love being out on the ocean and it shows through the experience we had. They worked hard to make sure we had the best possible experience and outcome.
Julian  T.
Julian T.
Osprey Fishing Charters - SF Bay
Osprey Fishing Charters - SF Bay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(20 reviews)
Great day with a nice box of fish. Captain James made it happen for us. We boated several keeper size halibut and striper. We also landed a couple sharks. He is knowledgeable and willing to put the work in to get you on good fish.
Dewitt  W.
Dewitt W.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Captain Shawn and firsthand Dan did a great job. We will definitely fish with them again I will I recommend to family and friends. See you next trip
Floyd  R.
Floyd R.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
You can tell shaun is a true fisherman. He put us on the fish and was willing to pass on knowledge to me. U know they say knowledge is power. Lol
Robert  M.
Robert M.
Bills Sportfishing And Guide Service
Bills Sportfishing And Guide Service
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(41 reviews)
But be forewarned that he is a chain smoker, so expect more exposure to second hand smoke in the confined volume of the forward part of the boat than anyone like me who lives in the non-smoking areas have experienced for 39 years. !โ€™
Brian  T.
Brian T.