When you think Mission Bay, you probably think Seaworld, found right on its shore. But Mission Bay fishing charters should be the very next thing that comes to mind! You can book a charter to Mission Bay year round for a variety of species and some excellent fishing.

Depending on the season, you’ll be able to catch big Spotted Bay Bass in these shallow waters, as well as Croaker, Corvina, Halibut, Flounder, Calico Bass, Bonito, Leopard Shark, Barracuda, Bonefish, and plenty more. The quality of fish is generally better here than in San Diego Bay, although you’re likely to catch less. Be patient, the fish will bite, and be worth the wait.

Fishing Spots

The shoreline of Mission Bay is 27 miles long, and of that over 19 miles are beaches. Along the shoreline, there are plenty of launch points and marinas to begin your fishing trip from. Choosing where to head out can be tough, as the fishing is great throughout the bay. Top spots to head to include Sail Bay, Quivira Basin, Mariners Basin, and Bahia Point. This is quite shallow fishing with average depths of 12 feet. Spend time along the edges of the eelgrass beds and you’ll be reeling in the fish in no time at all.

Dana Landing

Dana Landing is the most popular launch spot in Mission Bay. From here, you can access Mission Bay Channel, Quivira Basin, Ventura Cove, and more, all just half-a-mile from Dana Landing. When fishing close to Dana Landing, keep an eye on the buoys that mark the Seaworld waters, where access is restricted. Top catches include Spotted Bay Bass and Calico Bass.

Coves

Some of the deeper spots in Mission Bay include South Cove and Perez Cove. These can both reach depths of 20 feet. You can catch Calico Bass, Leopard Shark, Spotted Bay Bass, Bonefish, and more in these coves.

Crown Point

Along the Fishermans Channel, on Vacation Isle, is Crown Point. Here you’ll be able to target Sand Bass, Spotted Bass, Perch, and more. A light line of 8–10 lb test will be good in this area.

Fishing Tips

• Some of the best bait to use are ghost shrimp, worms, and mussels. Squid can be used but will not be as successful as the other baits.

• Shallow water presentations should be used in Mission Bay. One-half to 1 oz heavy spinnerbaits are good to use.

• In the channels, you’ll be able to hook Halibut. Use live bait such as small mackerel and sardines for great results.

Need to Know

Fishing in Mission Bay can get super busy. Be smart about when you head out, and check the incoming and outgoing tides.

The majority of the bay has a 5 mph speed limit for boats. Be aware of your surroundings and careful of surfers.

Regulations

You’ll need to buy a California Sport Fishing License. You can fish in all the nooks and crannies on offer, unless a “No Fishing” sign is present.

Budget

Bay fishing is usually for four people. An eight-hour trip is $775 and a four-hour trip is $450. Some charters will meet you at the bay but head out for offshore fishing – these charters will be double the price of a bay fishing charter.

Getting There

Fly directly into San Diego International Airport. From there, it’s just a 15-minute drive along Nimitz Boulevard to Mission Bay.

It’s time to book a Mission Bay fishing charter. With so many spots to fish, your trip is bound to be highly successful and lots of fun for the whole family.