San Francisco Bay

23 Fishing Charters

San Francisco Bay Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in San Francisco Bay

Top San Francisco Bay Destinations

San Francisco Bay: 23 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(161 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $225
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(16 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $1,200
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(379 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $195
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(13 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $300
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(28 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $200
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(38 reviews)
Richmond
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $225
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(4 reviews)
San Francisco
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $200
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(57 reviews)
Sausalito
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(110 reviews)
Alameda
trips from $265
Richmond
trips from $1,500

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in San Francisco Bay

According to customer reviews, Nautilus Excursions, Help U Fish, and Warrior Poet Sportfishing are some of the most popular fishing charters in San Francisco Bay. Full list of top fishing charters in San Francisco Bay.

The average price for a private 4 hour San Francisco Bay fishing trip is $1,273, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,610 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Nautilus Excursions, Help U Fish, and Warrior Poet Sportfishing all received great reviews from families who booked fishing trips in San Francisco Bay.

The most popular fish species you can target are Halibut, Striped Bass, and Rockfish. Top fishing techniques include Trolling, Light Tackle, and Bottom Fishing. Offshore fishing, inshore fishing, and nearshore fishing are commonly offered by local guides.

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.

San Francisco Bay
Excellent
4.6 / 5
Based on 26549 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

January
With most of the local fish off-limits or out of season, many anglers are casting their lines in other fishing holes around the Bay Area, targeting Halibut, Flounder, and Sturgeon.
February
The bite is slowly picking up, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring home an unforgettable catch! Sturgeon, Leopard Sharks, Starry Flounder, and California Halibut are all open to harvest.
March
With any luck, the weather will be getting warmer. The fishing is about to heat up too! Striped Bass are biting a little more, and you can also go after Lingcod for a fun catch and tasty dinner.
April
April is a great time to test the waters in San Francisco Bay if you haven’t already. Stripers are hitting their peak and the season for Rockfish is open. As always, you can count on Leopard Sharks.
May
The season for Pacific Halibut is usually open by now, which makes bottom fishing all the more appealing. With Salmon open for harvest, the Bay is becoming crowded with visiting anglers.
June
June is all about variety here in SF Bay! Anglers from far and wide flock to these waters for Salmon, Halibut, Lingcod, Sturgeon, Sharks, Striped Bass, and more. Did someone say world-class fishing?
July
You can expect more great fishing in July, with virtually every species at its peak. Clear blue skies and warm weather offer the perfect opportunity for adventurous anglers to head offshore.
August
It’s the hottest month of the year, so come cool off in the Bay and treat yourself to some fresh seafood. You can still catch anything from Salmon and Stripers to Lingcod, Sturgeon, and Sharks.
September
There’s plenty of time to catch whatever is left on your angling bucket list, whether it’s Salmon, Halibut, Sturgeon, or Sharks. What’s more, there are fewer fishermen out there, so the chances of landing something epic are bigger.
October
Salmon fishing closes at the end of the month, so be sure to catch your share of King Salmon while you still can. The good news is that all the other species will still be here for weeks to come.
November
The season for Striped Bass is winding down. You’ll find fewer Flounder and Halibut, too, but they’re out there. Bottom fishing is still promising, with Lingcod, Rockfish, and Leopard Sharks on the menu.
December
December is your last chance to bring home Rockfish and Lingcod for the next few months. Sturgeon and Leopard Sharks will soon reclaim their positions at the top of the list as winter continues.

San Francisco Bay Fishing Calendar

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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
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
Bring a jacket and lunch. If you not sure how your stomach will hold take meds ahead of time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring a jacket and lunch. If you not sure how your stomach will hold take meds ahead of time.
Salvador  S.
Salvador S. Fair Oaks, California
Captain Rooney said that Salmon Fishing is great right now, but I really liked going around the bay hunting halibut. So much action throughout the day!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Captain Rooney said that Salmon Fishing is great right now, but I really liked going around the bay hunting halibut. So much action throughout the day!
Ariel  S.
Ariel S. San Pablo, California
Bring layers. California doesn't always mean sunny and warm. But bring sunscreen too.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring layers. California doesn't always mean sunny and warm. But bring sunscreen too.
Dan  B.
Dan B.
The Fall is the summer in San Francisco and the Bay is teeming with fish!!! You can't go wrong.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The Fall is the summer in San Francisco and the Bay is teeming with fish!!! You can't go wrong.
Michael  F.
Michael F. Emeryville, CA
If your unsure of your sea legs, take a motion sickness medication. Be prepared for Karl to take your sight of land. Have your camera ready for some sensational photos. Prepare for weather and a healthy appetite to consume your catch.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If your unsure of your sea legs, take a motion sickness medication. Be prepared for Karl to take your sight of land. Have your camera ready for some sensational photos. Prepare for weather and a healthy appetite to consume your catch.
FishingBooker Member
FishingBooker Member Maddington, Western Australia
Be sure to go over parking in advance with your Captain. With all the tourists, it can be difficult to find areas to park without a permit.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be sure to go over parking in advance with your Captain. With all the tourists, it can be difficult to find areas to park without a permit.
Mathew  K.
Mathew K. Modesto, California
Bring a jacket because it gets pretty windy. Bring some snacks if you plan on doing the full day.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring a jacket because it gets pretty windy. Bring some snacks if you plan on doing the full day.
Chase  B.
Chase B. Fernley, NV
Layer up for the weather. It was chili out on the ocean. There were a couple of extra jackets on the boat (and the captain offered my wife a blanket and pillow when she was falling asleep in the cabin) but it's always nice to have your own stuff. Sunblock!!!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Layer up for the weather. It was chili out on the ocean. There were a couple of extra jackets on the boat (and the captain offered my wife a blanket and pillow when she was falling asleep in the cabin) but it's always nice to have your own stuff. Sunblock!!!
Wallace  C.
Wallace C. Auburn, CA
Book a trip on the Warrior Poet. Capt. Dave King will do his best to assure that you have a good time. He's very knowledgeable and will get you on the fish quickly
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book a trip on the Warrior Poet. Capt. Dave King will do his best to assure that you have a good time. He's very knowledgeable and will get you on the fish quickly
Baldwin  L.
Baldwin L. San Francisco, California
Salmon fishing needs a long ride toward the ocean, so not very pleasurable for people susceptible to sea sickness. Prepare well before the trip, probably by limiting your meal before the trip and take some pills to combat the motion sickness. Wear thick clothes as well because it could be quite windy even in a sunny afternoon.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Salmon fishing needs a long ride toward the ocean, so not very pleasurable for people susceptible to sea sickness. Prepare well before the trip, probably by limiting your meal before the trip and take some pills to combat the motion sickness. Wear thick clothes as well because it could be quite windy even in a sunny afternoon.
Sheng  G.
Sheng G. Palo Alto, CA
Fish with an experienced captain, like Craig Hanson. He knows the water, knows where the fish are likely to be, and has the correct tackle and bait.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Fish with an experienced captain, like Craig Hanson. He knows the water, knows where the fish are likely to be, and has the correct tackle and bait.
Christopher  T.
Christopher T. Sunbury-on-Thames, ENG
Dress in layers, can get a little chilly out on the bay.Rubber boots are nice but not needed .
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Dress in layers, can get a little chilly out on the bay.Rubber boots are nice but not needed .
Douglas  W.
Douglas W. Roseville, California
When leaving, be prepared for traffic out of there..it could take a while..worth the drive over of course..patience..
Excellent
5.0 / 5
When leaving, be prepared for traffic out of there..it could take a while..worth the drive over of course..patience..
Larry  B.
Larry B. Vallejo, CA
Morning tends to be best because of the tides, and the weather is sometimes better then, too. More fish are available starting around May.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Morning tends to be best because of the tides, and the weather is sometimes better then, too. More fish are available starting around May.
Jacqueline  R.
Jacqueline R. Benicia, CA
A total new experience for us who are used to living in tropical countries. The weather, the range of fish, the environment, etc... Fantastic experience.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
A total new experience for us who are used to living in tropical countries. The weather, the range of fish, the environment, etc... Fantastic experience.
Kelvin  C.
Kelvin C. Los Angeles, California

Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(161 reviews)
Captain Ron and Hunter are a couple of legends! A unforgettable day on the water. Professional, knowledgeable, personable and most importantly, on it! Highly recommend.
Michael  G.
Michael G. San Francisco, CA
Angler Charter
Angler Charter
Fishing charter in Berkeley
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(2 reviews)
It was a great time. They were really interactive and intuitive. Took really good care of me, my brother, dad and nephew.
Jedidiah  C.
Jedidiah C. Sacramento, CA
Angler Charter
Angler Charter
Fishing charter in Berkeley
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(2 reviews)
The fishing was superb! We caught a lot of different fish, the captain and his assistant were very helpful and did everything possible for excellent fishing and mood! It was an incredible experience! We are very grateful!
Olexander  L.
Olexander L. Citrus Heights, CA
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(379 reviews)
Truly enjoyable day with the crew on the bay. They are extremely helpful an knowledgeable guiding You threw the process if the party is unfamiliar. Had a excellent time an looking forward to going out fishing again. Hi highly recommend going out on the warrior poet
Robert  L.
Robert L. Winton, CA
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(379 reviews)
This was a birthday trip for our son who loves to fish. We could not have asked for a better experience! Captain Dave and his crew provided everything we needed and easily adjusted to our levels of expertise. Our son had his best day EVER and we all thought it way exceeded expectations.
Lydia  B.
Lydia B. Oakland, CA
Bills Sportfishing And Guide Service
Bills Sportfishing And Guide Service
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(38 reviews)
Everything was great. We really enjoyed our first time ever phishing experience and we were lucky to have Captain Bill.
Baiastan  Z.
Baiastan Z. Redwood City, California
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(24 reviews)
This was a great trip! Captain Ty and the deck hand were both very personable, knowledgeable and helpful! They seemed sincerely interested in the trip participants having a great experience and catching several species of fish. We happily took home our fish after the Captain cleaned and filleted it at our request.
Susan  M.
Susan M. San Francisco, California
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(161 reviews)
We had dads and sons with captains Ron and Hunter for a fantastic day of striper and halibut limits! Wonderful all aroundโ€” could not have been better. If you are considering a fishing charter, sign up with Nautilus!
David  M.
David M. San Francisco, CA
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(28 reviews)
Amazing day with Sean and the crew! Boat was clean, everything was ready to go with good tackle and gear. He put us on the fish right away. We caught limits by 9:45 am! Amazing trip, we will be back!
SKYLAR  N.
SKYLAR N. Rocklin, CA
Pacific Angler Sportfishing
Pacific Angler Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Alameda
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(4 reviews)
Great and efficient time with the crew and other patrons. My son had a great time. Thanks for taking us out!
Timothy  W.
Timothy W.
Addictive Sport Fishing
Addictive Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(13 reviews)
Captain John surpassed my expectations, both my buddies landed 48 inch sturgeons and I landed my first sturgeon a 64 inch which was unlike anything I could have imagined. I happily returned it into the water after a couple photos. Hands down Captain John earned our business and all 3 of us will be booking more trips as well as spreading the word, Captain John and Jane's Addiction is legit. Great guy with an awesome boat who will do his best to put you on an awesome fish.
Joseph  S.
Joseph S.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(379 reviews)
Captain David & Crew Member Neil were awesome. We went with our 4 boys (ages 7-10 yrs) & they were very attentive to ensuring safety was followed and the boys were comfortable the whole time. We caught a ton of different types of sea life and made lifetime memories.
Chris  D.
Chris D. Cotati, CA
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(28 reviews)
We had an amazing family day with captain Sean and crew, fishing around the San Francisco Bay! Strongly recommended, great experience and great fishing of Halibut and Striped Bass. We had the privilege to watch a grey whale as well
David  C.
David C. Richmond, CA
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(379 reviews)
We had an excellent time on this trip! everyone got to haul in some fish and the captain and crew were great to interact with!
Kellie  J.
Kellie J. Oshkosh, WI
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Sole-Man Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(17 reviews)
This was such a fun experience. Being a young woman looking for some adventure, Captain Don and Becky made my day! Friendly environment, beautiful weather, good music and a friendly crew make for a well worth it fishing excursion. I havenโ€™t fished in forever and they made it easy to feel like I knew what I was doing, even if I didnโ€™t. Lol! It was a smooth boat ride with coffee included and I caught some fish! Time of my life! Highly recommend :) Thank you again!
Ann  G.
Ann G. New York, New York
Addictive Sport Fishing
Addictive Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(13 reviews)
Full day trip was a complete success!! We found and caught some good size sturgeon! We had fun and knocked an amazing prehistoric fish off the bucket list. He got 2 guys hooked with their biggest fish ever and all of us hooked with our first sturgeon ever. Very knowledgeable fella with a ton of experience. Knew all the rules and regulations and taught us a couple things about these amazing creatures.
Juanangel  M.
Juanangel M. Pasadena, TX
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(153 reviews)
Everyone on the boat caught fish. This captain knows how to find them! The crew filleted them perfectly. The experience was worth every penny. And given the price of halibut at Safeway we can even say it cost less than buying fish at the grocery store. I'll be going out agin in the summer for cod. It was a great time.
Matt  K.
Matt K. San Jose, CA
The Codfather SportFishing
The Codfather SportFishing
Fishing charter in Alameda
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(112 reviews)
The boat is comfortable, the captain and his crew know the water very well. Josh the deckhand really knows how to fish - I learnt a very effective halibut rig from him.
Daniel  H.
Daniel H. Sunnyvale, CA
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(24 reviews)
They are real experts and experiences. This charter is the best of best in north cal overall
Jin  J.
Jin J.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(379 reviews)
Captain David and Deckhand Neal were friendly, knowledgeable, and busted their butts to make sure we had an amazing trip! It was most of our group's first time out, and they made sure we felt comfortable and taught us everything we needed to know. The excitement was nonstop, between 5 of us, we caught 49 Rays and 3 Leopard Sharks! We cannot wait to book with Captain David again!!!
Jennifer  M.
Jennifer M.