Mission Bay Fishing Charters

The average price for a private 4 hour Mission Bay fishing trip is US $812, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,566 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Mission Bay are good for families?

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

What are the top fish species I can catch in Mission Bay?

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

What are the top fishing techniques in Mission Bay?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Mission Bay are:

What are the top types of fishing in Mission Bay?

The top 3 types of fishing in Mission Bay are:

Do Mission Bay fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

Many fishing charters in Mission Bay provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

Who are the best rated captains in Mission Bay?

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Mission Bay are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Mission Bay?

Who are the top awarded captains in Mission Bay?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Mission Bay?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Mission Bay are:

3-hour fishing trips – US $674
4-hour fishing trips – US $762
5-hour fishing trips – US $947
6-hour fishing trips – US $1,018
8-hour fishing trips – US $1,482
9-hour fishing trips – US $1,840
10-hour fishing trips – US $1,700
12-hour fishing trips – US $2,328
16-hour fishing trips – US $3,000

Fishing in Mission Bay

Mission Bay is one of San Diego's highlights, and probably the best place in the city to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Aside from SeaWorld, cycling, and picnicking, which are all great fun, fishing in these prolific waters holds a lot of promise. Don't believe us? Let a Mission Bay fishing charter take you and show you just how good the bite is.

The bay is quite shallow and it doesn't go deeper than 25 feet, though most areas are shallower than that. This means that you can find all sorts of inshore species here, starting with beloved Spotted Sand Bass, closely followed by Calico, Halibut, smaller Barracuda, Croaker, Bonito, and many more. The quality of fish is great, though they might be tricky to find.

Mission Bay is quite big and it's up to you how much time you want to spend exploring it. A standard half day trip that lasts 4–5 hours gives you enough time to target various species and have a blast. If you'd like more time on the water, you've got options for 6–8-hour expeditions, some of which might take you out of the bay and into the Pacific.

There are several boat launches in Mission Bay and we'd recommend talking to your captain well in advance to make sure you know where to meet. Dana Landing Marina is the most common meeting point for crews of Mission Bay fishing charters and anglers.

Rules & Regulations

Before you start your angling adventure, you'll need a valid California fishing license. Every person who is 16 and older needs to have their license on them. If you plan on getting a license that lasts more than 2 days, you'll also need to get an Ocean Enhancement Stamp.

Mission Bay

4.8 / 5

Based on 28559 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Mission Bay Fishing Seasons

January

It's slower on the fishing front in January, but you can still find solid action. Winter fishing is good for Corvina, Halibut, and Spotted Sand Bass. Just beware that temperatures drop to 49°F this time of year.

February

The weather is fair this month, though it's still not very warm on the water. You can go after Calico Bass, some White Seabass around Fiesta Island, and smaller Barracuda.

March

As spring rolls around, Mission Bay gets livelier with each passing day. There are more and more anglers on the shores, targeting Spotties, Bonefish, and Corvina, and there are quite a few Sharks in the surf.

April

It's getting hot in Mission Bay, both on and in the water. There are more and more Calicos swimming around, as well as Spotties, and the same goes for Corvina, Bonefish, and Barracuda.

May

Fishing is only getting better and better as spring progresses. The bite is on for Bay and Calico Bass, Halibut are showing up in great numbers, and you can find Barracuda and Yellowtail in the surf.

June

This is one of the top months to go after Halibut, whether you're fishing from shore, from a paddleboard, or from a boat. Calico Bass are also biting, not to mention Corvina, Sharks, and Yellowtail.

July

Everything is in the cards in July, be it Spotted Sand Bass, Corvina and Corbina, Halibut, Calico Bass, or Barracuda. To celebrate The Fourth of July, watch the “Big Bay Boom,” the largest firework display in San Diego.

August

This is usually the hottest month of the year and the bite is piping hot as well. Think Halibut, Spotties, Corvina, Barracuda, Corbina, Bonefish, and Yellowtails along Mission Beach.

September

The beginning of fall is upon us, but things aren't slowing down. Offshore, anglers are enjoying the fall Tuna run, and Mission Bay boasts excellent Bay Bass, Barracuda, Calico Bass, Halibut, and Corbina.

October

This is one of the best months to target California Corbina, as well as Bay Bass. Sharks and small Yellowtails in the surf are also quite good, and Halibut are still active around the channels.

November

From November 1 to March 31 you can pay to join in the Halibut Derby. Will you catch the biggest one?

December

Bottom dwellers are your go-to prey in winter. Think Bass – Spotted, Barred, and Calico, but don't forget about Sharks and Rays along the beaches, and Corbina in the coves too.

Mission Bay Fishing Calendar

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What anglers said about fishing in Mission Bay

We volume fished for Rockfish. Not a lot of fight but a lot of catch. We were pulling fish out after most of the casts. This gave those in our group that didn’t fish a chance to partake in the experience by preparing/ eating catch. Other fish may give more fight but fewer catches. Angler’s choice.

5.0 / 5

Pelican Sportfishing

This boat was fantastic for first time fisherman Gavin was on top of everything and took care of us. We can’t wait to come back.

5.0 / 5

This boat was fantastic for first time fisherman Gavin was on top of everything and took care of us. We can’t wait to come back.

Fishing Charters Of San Diego

I don’t know much about it but we had a ton of fun and saw some tuna but they just weren’t biting

5.0 / 5

I don’t know much about it but we had a ton of fun and saw some tuna but they just weren’t biting

Brothers Sport Fishing

It was perfect for catching a variety of 10 to 20 inch fish, my first time fishing off shore in 20 years

5.0 / 5

It was perfect for catching a variety of 10 to 20 inch fish, my first time fishing off shore in 20 years

Fishing Charters Of San Diego

Be patient, be adaptable, follow TC's lead, ask questions, above all relax and have fun. Development of angling skills takes time. It's not an overnight success. If you are serious, jot down notes if you need to.

5.0 / 5

TC's Fishing Adventures

If you have never been on a boat follow the Captain’s recommendation about motion sickness prevention. Tons of different fish species to catch.

5.0 / 5

If you have never been on a boat follow the Captain’s recommendation about motion sickness prevention. Tons of different fish species to catch.

Romeo Sport Fishing San Diego

Action was good but not being able to keep Rockfish in October caught inshore is kind of bummer. But this charter did well to put us on keeper fish (whitefish) so still fun!

5.0 / 5

Action was good but not being able to keep Rockfish in October caught inshore is kind of bummer. But this charter did well to put us on keeper fish (whitefish) so still fun!

Pelican Sportfishing

There is always something biting in San Diego and anything is possible from rockfish to marlin.

5.0 / 5

There is always something biting in San Diego and anything is possible from rockfish to marlin.

SD Slot Machine Charter Oak Glen, CA

The weather is really nice and the water is clear. The people and the environment are very nice.

5.0 / 5

The weather is really nice and the water is clear. The people and the environment are very nice.

Pelican Sportfishing Schaumburg, IL

Be ready for a good fight fishing in San Diego. The captain and staff are very friendly attentive and have great communication on teaching and giving you tips to land the fish or multiple fish.

5.0 / 5

Be ready for a good fight fishing in San Diego. The captain and staff are very friendly attentive and have great communication on teaching and giving you tips to land the fish or multiple fish.

San Diego Charters – 32' Blackfin Yuma, AZ

Definitely splurge on a charter. With just four guests, the crew was able to help us all individually. It was great fun!

5.0 / 5

Definitely splurge on a charter. With just four guests, the crew was able to help us all individually. It was great fun!

Wild Goose Fishing Charters Claremont, CA

It’s cooler than expected this time of year. Dress in layers. Need Mexican and US fishing license. Bring passport in case fishing around Coronado islands.

5.0 / 5

It’s cooler than expected this time of year. Dress in layers. Need Mexican and US fishing license. Bring passport in case fishing around Coronado islands.

Pelican Sportfishing Rancho Cucamonga, CA

If you have flexibility in your dates, reach out to the Captain for recommendations on when to book.

5.0 / 5

If you have flexibility in your dates, reach out to the Captain for recommendations on when to book.

Pelican Sportfishing Kathleen, GA

Plenty of sunblock. Calm waters in the bay but expect big swells if you go offshore.

5.0 / 5

Plenty of sunblock. Calm waters in the bay but expect big swells if you go offshore.

AF Sportfishing Geneva, FL

In December, fishing is weather dependent. Be prepared for a variety of conditions and dress accordingly.

5.0 / 5

In December, fishing is weather dependent. Be prepared for a variety of conditions and dress accordingly.

AF Sportfishing Fort Worth, TX

Grind at finding fish and you will get on fish. Less boats out this time of the year which is awesome!

5.0 / 5

Grind at finding fish and you will get on fish. Less boats out this time of the year which is awesome!

Awol Sportfishing United States

Couldn’t ask for a better 1/2 day excursion. Fish were jumping in the boat

5.0 / 5

Couldn’t ask for a better 1/2 day excursion. Fish were jumping in the boat

Reel Life Fishing Charters Yorba Linda, CA

Speak with your captain prior to departure. Bring extra food and drinks if desired Make sure to check the weather to prepare properly

5.0 / 5

Speak with your captain prior to departure. Bring extra food and drinks if desired Make sure to check the weather to prepare properly

Reel Life Fishing Charters Santa Ana, CA

The fishing boats depart promptly at their scheduled hour. Be EARLY or ON TIME for the trip.

5.0 / 5

The fishing boats depart promptly at their scheduled hour. Be EARLY or ON TIME for the trip.

The Long Run Sportfishing United States

Don’t hesitate to book with Pelican Sport fishing, you will not regret it. Captain Shaun will make sure you have a great time.

5.0 / 5

Don’t hesitate to book with Pelican Sport fishing, you will not regret it. Captain Shaun will make sure you have a great time.

Pelican Sportfishing Midvale, UT

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Mission Bay?

Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(52 reviews)

This was a great trip scheduled for my son’s birthday, the captain was great and the fishing was a little slow but not in lack of effort by the captain. Will use him again in the future.

Corbin G.

Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(52 reviews)

Captain Alberto is very knowledgeable and entertaining. Had a great time and looking forward to doing it again.

Randall S.

Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(64 reviews)

Went fishing for a bachelor trip and had a great time. Caught plenty of fish, had everything taken care of, and had a great cookout afterwords.

Deven V.

No Patience Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(15 reviews)

We booked a 4 hour trip and had a great time with our 3 children. Arron was great with the kids and put us on the fish.

Justin S.

Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(239 reviews)

We did the half day excursion and had a great time. We were fishing for rockfish and caught 24 keepers between the 4 of us. We ended up with around 15 pounds of fillets in ziplocks prepared by our guide. Our guide was well informed and was constantly baiting hooks and removing catch. We got the expirence we had hoped for.

James T.

Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(52 reviews)

Best California charter. Good fishing. Good learning. Great conversation. Thanks!

Mark J.

The Long Run Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(194 reviews)

Awesome time out on the water. The trip was action packed filled with a variety of fish caught. Would recommend!

Brady J. North Hollywood, California

SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(96 reviews)

I would highly recommend this charter to anyone coming to San Diego to fish. Captain Dan was truly a professional.

Katherine B.

Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(27 reviews)

The professionalism, Kindness to my disabled husband and effort to get us a great day was unsurpassed will come again

Evalina Burger Van Der Walt

Guardian Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(28 reviews)

The captain and deckhand were great. Put us right on the fish and can’t wait to book a longer trip. Great start to the season.

Kristopher O.

The Long Run Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego

4.3 / 5

(194 reviews)

The captain and deck hand were great to work with. They were very attentive and helpful. The boat is a little older but runs fine. We, unfortunately, went on a day when the sea was too high and had to stay in the bay. We all caught fish but nothing we could keep. It was a fun trip.

Frederic J.

Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(64 reviews)

My brother had the time of his life visiting from Virginia. They caught fish after fish and brought a big smile to everyone’s face. We enjoyed every second.

Karry H.

Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(52 reviews)

If you are looking for a captain that knows the waters…the fish… the history, then Al is your man. Made sure we caught some fish then let us spend some time hunting for bigger fish. A delightful day on a personal tour of the bay. G + P

Eugene B.

Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(64 reviews)

Capt Brian got us on the fish right away. Took enough home for dinner tonight.

Kyle K.

Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(52 reviews)

I had a great day fishing with Al. Super friendly, very knowledgeable and experienced. Caught a lot of fish. I couldn’t have asked for a better guide and first experience fishing in salt water. I definitely would recommend people to fish with Al. Thanks Al for an epic day!

Ben W.

Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(64 reviews)

Our group of four had an amazing time and caught so much fish! A mixture of rock fish, salmon grouper, and lingcod which made for delicious fish tacos. Super friendly and informative crew. Would definitely book with them again.

Jordan A.

Kraken Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(129 reviews)

Did his absolute best to put us on fish and was a stand up guy. Def recommend!!

Nathaniel B.

Wild Goose Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(130 reviews)

Our party of six had a great time for the third year in a row. Lots of action and plenty of fish to take home. We caught over 10 species this trip and that is part of thr fun learning to identify all the different fish.

Mark L.

Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(20 reviews)

Captain Mike was super accommodating and gave the extra effort to ensure we had a great experience. Fantastic boat made for a very comfortable day and it was a great way to host clients. Caught about 6 different species...going back for the big ones next time!

Todd B.

SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego

5.0 / 5

(96 reviews)

My 10 year old son I booked with Capt. Dan for the second year in a row. Whole process was seamless. We had an incredible time. Dan is so cool. Helpful, friendly, knowledgeable! Made my son’s day!! Highly recommend!!!!