California Delta Fishing Charters

The best out of 31 charter fishing deals in California Delta - enter dates to check availability

Top California Delta Destinations

California Delta: 31 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(41 reviews)
Bethel Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $565
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(178 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $225
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(25 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $1,200
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(63 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $225
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $300
Excellent
4.6 / 5
(14 reviews)
Stockton
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $400
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(62 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $200
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(447 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $195
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(15 reviews)
Pittsburg
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $280
Richmond
trips from US $1,800

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in California Delta

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

The average price for a private 4 hour California Delta fishing trip is US $1,149, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,256 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in California Delta that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in California Delta are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in California Delta are:

The top 3 types of fishing in California Delta are:

Many fishing charters in California Delta 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 California Delta are:

Who are the top awarded captains in California Delta?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in California Delta are:
  • Extended fishing trips โ€“ US $2,250
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $575
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $638
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $544
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $817
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $909
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,292
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $350

Fishing in California Delta

The California Delta fishing scene requires no introduction – freshwater anglers from all over the country are in on the secret! This estuary, also known as the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, is the meeting point of the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, where both fish and anglers come out to play. 
 
King Salmon and Striped Bass are the stars and the most prized local catches. These waters are also the playground of White Sturgeon, the prehistoric acrobat that will give you a run for your money. You could easily hook into Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, but they’re usually not the main target of fishing efforts. 
 
For a change of pace, you can always count on excellent Catfishing, and there are three species you could fish for – Channel, Bullhead, and White Catfish. If you’d like to try something different, go set traps for Crawdaddies (aka Crayfish), which are a local delicacy and incredibly fun to catch for kids and grownups alike.
 
There’s a lot of trip options to browse through, and half day excursions are a regular choice of new-comers. Full day trips are popular as well and give you more time on the water and more chances of landing something bragworthy. Some charters offer specialized Salmon and Sturgeon trips, as well as shared expeditions, that are affordable, but slightly less personalized.
 
If you’re looking for a professional guide to the best of the California Delta fishing action, you’ll easily find one. There are charters that head out of Pittsburgh, Rio Vista, and even Richmond, and San Francisco.
 

Rules & Regulations

Local captains will clue you in about the fishing regulations you need to know while fishing the Delta. They take it upon themselves to provide you with quality tackle and a reliable boat, and it’s up to you to take care of your freshwater fishing license.

California Delta
Excellent
4.9 / 5
Based on 28446 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

California Delta Fishing Seasons

January
At the beginning of the year, Sturgeon reign supreme in the Delta, and there are a couple of local Sturgeon tournaments you can participate in. Stripers are a bit lazy because of the lower water temperatures.
February
White Sturgeon remain the most popular catch in February, and Striped Bass still don’t feel like working too hard for their food. With spring just around the corner, that’s about to change!
March
As the water is becoming clearer, Stripers are starting to bite, and Sturgeon fishing is still in full swing. In the San Joaquin River, Smallmouth Bass fishing is very good.
April
Come April, you can expect fishing action on the Delta that will be well worth your while. Both Sturgeon and Striped Bass are biting left and right, especially if the water is clear and there are no storms.
May
To have a better chance of landing your next trophy Striped Bass, hit the San Joaquin River. Sacramento River is the place to be for Sturgeon fishing, though Stripers and Halibut are taking the spotlight.
June
It’s getting hotter – both the weather and the bite. Whether it’s trolling for Striped Bass, chasing Sturgeon, or waiting for Largemouth Bass in the south part of the Delta, fun is guaranteed!

 

July
It’s the peak of summer, which means top-notch Bass and Sturgeon fishing all around. Salmon are slowly entering the scene, and there’s a Crawdad Festival in Isleton during Father's Day weekend.
August
You can find both Striped and Largemouth Bass in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, and Salmon fishing is picking up as the waters are getting colder.
September
It’s Salmon time! In September, fishing conditions are usually perfect to go after this delicious sport fish – who knows, maybe you’ll end up with a 30-pounder on your hands. Bass fishing is as productive as ever.
October
With October comes the fall Striped Bass run, unforgettable Salmon action, and the Best Bass Tournament. The Sturgeon bite is also getting better, though it’s yet to shine in the winter months.
November
As Salmon leave local waters, Sturgeon are making a comeback in style. Striped Bass are hungry as ever, and you can find big ones (30+ pounds), if you know where to look.
December
Both the quantity and quality of Striped Bass is noteworthy in December, and if you’re on the lookout for your next Sturgeon record, now is the time to hit the Delta waters.

California Delta Fishing Calendar

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What anglers said about fishing in California Delta

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
Not as good fishing conditions as other months, but you can still catch fish. We werenโ€™t able to catch any fish from the dock on Bethel Island where we were staying but much of that was limited by stormy weather. On a bass charter we were able to catch 1 largemouth bass and 1 striped bass. In February fishing is OK but not as good as spring and summer.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Not as good fishing conditions as other months, but you can still catch fish. We werenโ€™t able to catch any fish from the dock on Bethel Island where we were staying but much of that was limited by stormy weather. On a bass charter we were able to catch 1 largemouth bass and 1 striped bass. In February fishing is OK but not as good as spring and summer.
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service
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
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
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
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.
Bills Sportfishing And Guide Service
Bills Sportfishing And Guide Service
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
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.
David Rooney
David Rooney 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
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing 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.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay 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.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay 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.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing 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.
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service 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.
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
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.
Addictive Sport Fishing
Addictive Sport Fishing
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
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.
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service 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!
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service
Delta BASSNโ€™ Guide Service 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.
The Codfather SportFishing
The Codfather SportFishing Castro Valley, California

How did anglers rate fishing charters in California Delta?

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.
David Rooney
David Rooney
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(63 reviews)
If you donโ€™t want the crowd of a party boat, and you want to catch fish, this is the right boat for you!
Roman  B.
Roman B.
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.
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Pittsburg
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(17 reviews)
Couldnโ€™t have asked for better weather. Got us on the fish early. We were able to get two fish in the boat with plenty of other bite opportunities. If youโ€™re looking for sturgeon - Matt is your guy.
Tom  S.
Tom S.
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.
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Pittsburg
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(17 reviews)
Matt and Javier were awesome. They worked really hard for us. It was a great trip.
Brent  E.
Brent E.
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.
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Pittsburg
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(17 reviews)
Matt and Javier worked very hard, kept us in fish every day, hooked us a huge sturgeon, and the striper was a bonus. Outstanding, highly recommend!
Benjamin  B.
Benjamin B.
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.
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Here We Go Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Pittsburg
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(17 reviews)
Matt took us out sturgeon fishing in the delta on Jan. 1st for my birthday and I had the best day fishing !!! I've been on quite a few charters and I've not met a more hospitable and humble captain, not ever. His boat is nice all his equipment is top notch and he knows what he's doing. He is also fun to talk to. It never got awkward or boring, not for a second. I recommend him 100% and can't wait to go again! Thanks Matt! ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘
Brandy  W.
Brandy W.
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.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(62 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
(62 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.
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.

Top Fishing Techniques in California Delta

Top Targeted Species in California Delta