San Francisco Bay needs no introduction. Its unforgettable beauty is matched only by the number of incredible fishing opportunities it boasts, and anglers from all over the country know it. And for every catch in these waters, there are a dozen San Francisco Bay fishing charters to help you reel it in.
The Bay offers access to some of the most popular game fish on the west coast, minus the long boat rides and choppy seas. Whether you’re in the mood for fantastic Salmon action, or you’d rather spend your day bottom fishing for Halibut, Lingcod, Flounder, and Rockfish, success on the water is all but guaranteed.
Another popular pastime is Shark fishing and there are more than 10 Shark species swimming in the bay, Leopard Shark being the most frequent catch. You can also enjoy the excellent Striped Bass bite, and if you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush, then set your sights on Sturgeon. These fellas will give you a run for your money with their acrobatic jumps and headshakes.
When it comes to trip options, you’ve got a great variety of packages to choose from. Local captains organize both private and shared fishing excursions, so you can pick how much time and money you want to spend on your angling adventure. Half day trips seem to be the most popular choice for families and beginners, while avid fishermen prefer full days for a higher chance of catching their trophy.
If you’re not sure where to go, don’t worry. You’ll find San Francisco fishing charters in every corner of the bay, including Sausalito, Richmond, Berkeley, Emeryville, and San Francisco itself.
Rules & Regulations
If you go fishing with a professional guide, all the essentials like bait, tackle, and regulations info are included in the price. Just remember that all anglers age 16 and older are responsible for buying their own California fishing license.