California Fishing Charters

The best out of 205 charter fishing deals in California - enter dates to check availability

Top California Destinations

California: 205 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(187 reviews)
Coronado
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $749
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(40 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $600
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(130 reviews)
Newport Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $850
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $900
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(33 reviews)
Huntington Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $705
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(73 reviews)
Los Angeles
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $750
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(55 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $650
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(26 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $250
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(92 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $550
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(127 reviews)
Los Angeles
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $450

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in California

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

The average price for a private 4 hour California fishing trip is US $856, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,472 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

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

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

The top 3 fishing techniques in California are:

The top 3 types of fishing in California are:

Many fishing charters in California 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 are:

Who are the top awarded captains in California?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in California are:
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $668
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $759
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,002
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,014
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,000
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,500
  • 9-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,800
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,930
  • 11-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,767
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $2,427
  • 16-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $3,000

Fishing in California

Featuring over 800 miles of coastline along with some of the most productive rivers, lakes, and reservoirs in the country, the Golden State offers remarkable diversity. California fishing charters present the perfect opportunity to explore all the possibilities, from big game fishing in San Diego to fly fishing in the Sacramento River.

The sheer variety of species you can target in California is fantastic, so it’s important to prioritize. Superb bottom fishing for Halibut, Rockfish, and Lingcod, fantastic Salmon runs, crabbing, lobstering, Albacore Tuna fishing, you can do just about anything in NorCal. If you prefer SoCal, then you can chase Yellowtail Amberjack, Calico Bass, California Sheephead, Barracuda, and even Marlin.

The freshwater action is just as impressive. There are several rivers in the state that are world-known for their Salmon and Trout action, and let’s not forget about the incredible local White Sturgeon population. In lakes and reservoirs, Bass and Kokanee fishing is hot.

California fishing charters offer just about every trip and package under the sun. One day, you can spend several hours on a river with your family; the next, you can go on a 12-hour deep sea fishing expedition that will put you on the bite of ocean royalty like Tuna and Marlin. The only limit here is your fishing ambition.

You’ll easily find a local guide in most coastal cities and beyond. San Francisco, San Diego, Dana Point, and Long Beach are some of the best places to find a fishing professional to put you on your trophy catch.

 

Rules & Regulations

California fishing charters typically include everything you need except for a fishing license. Anglers ages 16 and older can buy one online or at local retailers like Walmart. Bear in mind that going out with a local guide is the best way to fish responsibly, since many fishing grounds have special regulations.

California
Excellent
4.9 / 5
Based on 28384 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

California Fishing Seasons

January
There’s plenty to catch in California during January, so head to the water and get started on this year’s bucket list early! Bottom fishing for Halibut and Flounder could be your first stop.
February
There’s no shortage of possibilities in winter. Crabbing in Bodega Bay, Sturgeon fishing in the Delta, trolling in Lake Tahoe for Mackinaw Trout, or fly fishing for Steelhead in the upper Sac River, the choice is yours.
March
Lobster fishing can be excellent this time of year in Southern California, while the north coast promises Halibut, Crab, and more. California lakes offer good Bass and Trout. 
April
Saltwater fishing starts to pick up momentum in April when the seasons for Lingcod and Rockfish open. Yellowtail and Barracuda are showing up near Catalina Island.
May
May is an excellent time to head offshore as big game fish start making their entrance into SoCal waters. Salmon season is open in San Francisco so Chinook’s, the King of all Salmon, is on the menu too.
June
Shad fishing in the Sacramento River is superb this time of year. Meanwhile, deep sea fishing off the coasts of San Francisco, San Diego, and many other cities is slowly reaching its height.
July
In July, some of the best fishing in the state is offshore. Anglers in Lake Tahoe are catching hordes of Kokanee Salmon, while those on the Sac River are gearing up for the start of the fall Salmon run.
August
Depending on where you set sail, your chances of catching Albacore, Yellowfin, Bluefin, or Bigeye Tuna are excellent in August. The Sac River is crowded with anglers hoping to land a record-breaking King Salmon.
September
Unparalleled fishing action continues! From Tuna and monster Sharks offshore to Salmon in the rivers and Bass in the lakes, prepare for the fight of your life!
October
When the weather is fair, you can still head offshore for great deep sea fishing. Meanwhile, the Sac River continues to offer stellar Salmon fishing, while Trout fishing in Lake Tahoe is picking up again.
November
Salmon season is closed in the bays, but you can still catch them in the Sac River through to the end of the year. Many charter boats in the San Francisco Bay Area are fishing the Delta for Sturgeon and Stripers.
December
Lobster and Dungeness Crab are at their peak in December. Bottom fishing for Rockfish and Lingcod will be open until the end of the month. Meanwhile, the lakes are bustling with Trout.

California Fishing Calendar

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Featured photos from California

What anglers said about fishing in California

Plan on at least 4 hrs and patience and persistence! The Captain make the trip- catching fish is a bonus! Enjoy the ride!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Plan on at least 4 hrs and patience and persistence! The Captain make the trip- catching fish is a bonus! Enjoy the ride!
Nemo Charters - Weekend Trips
Nemo Charters - Weekend Trips
Bring a jacket it can get a little chilly! And donโ€™t forget your sunglasses! :)
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring a jacket it can get a little chilly! And donโ€™t forget your sunglasses! :)
Last Meal Sportfishing
Last Meal Sportfishing
I donโ€™t know much about it but we had a ton of fun and saw some tuna but they just werenโ€™t biting
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I donโ€™t know much about it but we had a ton of fun and saw some tuna but they just werenโ€™t biting
Brothers Sport Fishing
Brothers Sport Fishing
Be flexible and listen to your captain/guide. If you want to target a specific species you. A but run the risk of not catching anything. The captain will know what is and is not biting. If they make a suggestion I would listen because they want to put you in position to catch some fish and have some fun. So talk to them and make a game plan before your trip and take their advice into consideration and you will make some great memories just like I did!!!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be flexible and listen to your captain/guide. If you want to target a specific species you. A but run the risk of not catching anything. The captain will know what is and is not biting. If they make a suggestion I would listen because they want to put you in position to catch some fish and have some fun. So talk to them and make a game plan before your trip and take their advice into consideration and you will make some great memories just like I did!!!
Ez Sportfishing
Ez Sportfishing
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
It was perfect for catching a variety of 10 to 20 inch fish, my first time fishing off shore in 20 years
Excellent
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
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Give your self extra time as the shop is small and takes a little time to get your license
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Give your self extra time as the shop is small and takes a little time to get your license
Blue Horizon Sportfishing
Blue Horizon Sportfishing
Don't hesitate to ask Matt any questions you've got, but don't have unrealistic expectations. Sometimes the fish don't bite, but most of the time they bite a whole lot!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Don't hesitate to ask Matt any questions you've got, but don't have unrealistic expectations. Sometimes the fish don't bite, but most of the time they bite a whole lot!
Sea Esta Sportfishing
Sea Esta Sportfishing
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.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
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.
TC's Fishing Adventures
TC's Fishing Adventures
If you have never been on a boat follow the Captainโ€™s recommendation about motion sickness prevention. Tons of different fish species to catch.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you have never been on a boat follow the Captainโ€™s recommendation about motion sickness prevention. Tons of different fish species to catch.
Romeo Sport Fishing San Diego
Romeo Sport Fishing San Diego
I recommend calling Captain Mike Nielsen. Was recommended to me by the guy at the shop where we bought our licenses. He did not disappoint. Caught our limit, saw incredible views and learned a good bit about the area. Gorgeous day and amazing experience!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I recommend calling Captain Mike Nielsen. Was recommended to me by the guy at the shop where we bought our licenses. He did not disappoint. Caught our limit, saw incredible views and learned a good bit about the area. Gorgeous day and amazing experience!
Tahoe Topliners Fishing โ€“ Est. 1996
Tahoe Topliners Fishing โ€“ Est. 1996
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
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!
Excellent
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
Pelican Sportfishing
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
Layers of clothes. Process matters - keep an open mind. Bluefin is a little risky, but very satisfying.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Layers of clothes. Process matters - keep an open mind. Bluefin is a little risky, but very satisfying.
Mystic Queen Sportfishing
Mystic Queen Sportfishing
The great thing about fishing in the ocean is you never know what your going to get. Expected Dorado ended up with 25+Lb Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The great thing about fishing in the ocean is you never know what your going to get. Expected Dorado ended up with 25+Lb Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna.
Blue Horizon Sportfishing
Blue Horizon Sportfishing Chino, CA
Pay for parking. It was dark when we arrived so I didn't notice it was pay parking only. There is a small kiosk to pay that is not close to Dock H and the fine is steep at $50.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Pay for parking. It was dark when we arrived so I didn't notice it was pay parking only. There is a small kiosk to pay that is not close to Dock H and the fine is steep at $50.
Last Meal Sportfishing
Last Meal Sportfishing San Francisco, California
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

How did anglers rate fishing charters in California?

No Patience Sportfishing
No Patience Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
Captain Aaron was very knowledgeable and great with kids. He has us on fish right away. We would definitely fish with them again!
Michael  C.
Michael C.
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
(62 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.
No Patience Sportfishing
No Patience Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
This experience was everything we were hoping it would be for the day. Captain was great and super knowledgeable. Got on the fish quick and all day, bites left and right. Next time I come back to San Diego will for sure be using No Patience to go out on the water
Ralph  B.
Ralph B.
Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(236 reviews)
Hi my name is Rafael, me and my son chose pelican sportfhing without knowing what to expect boy that was the best thing we ever did so just so you guys know I will recommend this chater anytime capitan was excellent the boat was very clean, plenty of room, so if you want to have a good time and catch fish, give him a call.
Rafael  A.
Rafael A.
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
We had a great time with Al. He was very friendly and worked hard to make sure we had a good time. Fishing was slow but that was just how it went - we definitely caught more than the other boats around us. Thanks for a good day!
NATHAN  D.
NATHAN D.
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.
Full Spectrum SF โ€“ Sea Monkey
Full Spectrum SF โ€“ Sea Monkey
Fishing charter in Huntington Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(33 reviews)
Everything was exactly as described and communication was great. The trip was tailored to exactly what we were hoping to do/find and we pulled in a lot of fish!
Andrew  L.
Andrew L.
Full Spectrum SF โ€“ Sea Monkey
Full Spectrum SF โ€“ Sea Monkey
Fishing charter in Huntington Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(33 reviews)
Caught some large sheephead and sand bass. Halibut werenโ€™t biting but had a great time. Morning trip had plenty of bait and were prepared. Would recommend
Joel  B.
Joel B.
Full Spectrum SF โ€“ Sea Monkey
Full Spectrum SF โ€“ Sea Monkey
Fishing charter in Huntington Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(33 reviews)
We had an incredible time with Captain Woody! He was amazing, so knowledgeable! We caught great fish and octopus! Loved our entire trip! Even brought our kids, Which he was great with, especially eating fish eyes with my son!! Canโ€™t wait to eat what we caught tonight!
Ashley  B.
Ashley B.
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(55 reviews)
We took the 3 hour fishing trip and had a lot of fun. Brian and Gavin are knowledgeable, friendly and we caught plenty of fish! Will be back!
Julia  C.
Julia C.
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(18 reviews)
Captain Silva was great, took 2 first 14 year Olds and he helped them out. Very educational and patient with them. He made us feel like family. A great boat to be on the ocean. Will definitely go fishing with Captain Silva again.
Joseph  W.
Joseph W.
Mardiosa Sportfishing
Mardiosa Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Long Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Spent the day on the water with this crew and my family. The kids fished until the very end and loved every minute of it. Highly recommend for a private charter this was Perfect!
Sandra  L.
Sandra L.
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(55 reviews)
Captain Brian and deck hand Gavin were great help to us all day. We went out on the water for 5 hours. We caught a lot of fish and they were both very helpful. Unfortunately we didnโ€™t have a lot of big catches, but that canโ€™t be controlled. Just the luck of the day. We enjoyed this adventure and would go again.
Jeff  F.
Jeff F.
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
The captain is very easy going and great to talk to. He made everyone on the boat feel welcome and showed us how to fish like a pro. We were catching fish on the first cast! He was able to watch the currents and put us right where we needed to be.
Nick  S.
Nick S.
Kraken Sportfishing
Kraken Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(124 reviews)
My family and I had a wonderful day on the water. Captain Leng was a wonderful fishing coach and was able to answer all our questions. Everybody caught fish! Would highly recommend to anyone looking to fish off the coast
Hunter  N.
Hunter N.
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(55 reviews)
We had a group of us with children and there was non-stop catching full of excitement and positivity! Worth the money and great with children!
Jana  E.
Jana E.
Mystic Queen Sportfishing
Mystic Queen Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Los Angeles
Very good
4.0 / 5
(73 reviews)
Captain Harry and Alec were great. Very helpful through out the day. Werenโ€™t afraid to keep moving spots to find fish. Really had a nice trip.
Matthew  L.
Matthew L.
Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(236 reviews)
My son and I had a blast! Captain Shaun was amazing, and had us on the fish nonstop. 14 different species of fish Already planning our next trip.
Richard  C.
Richard C.
TC's Fishing Adventures
TC's Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(38 reviews)
TC was so complimentary and helpful with my son fishing today. He made sure that we did catch some and had a great time. TC has a great personality and is very entertaining. We will be back to see him again!
Aubrey  K.
Aubrey K.

Top Fishing Techniques in California

Top Targeted Species in California