California Fishing Charters

206 Fishing Charters

California Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in California

Top California Destinations

California: 206 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
Coronado
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $699
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(122 reviews)
Newport Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $850
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(71 reviews)
Los Angeles
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $750
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
Bethel Island
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $500
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(116 reviews)
Los Angeles
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(25 reviews)
Huntington Beach
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(224 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $875
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(77 reviews)
Huntington Beach
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation

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 $858, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,566 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:
  • 2-hour fishing trips โ€“ $450
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ $660
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ $811
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ $972
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,065
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,188
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,468
  • 9-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,760
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,860
  • 11-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,717
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ $2,367

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
4.5 / 5
Based on 27943 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

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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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!
Terry  R.
Terry R.
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
Julian  T.
Julian T.
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
Floyd  R.
Floyd R.
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!
Michael  L.
Michael L.
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.
Brian  T.
Brian T.
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.
Anton  R.
Anton R.
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.
David  O.
David O. 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.
Bryan  H.
Bryan H. 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.
Eric  S.
Eric S.
Good options with lots of parking and cleaning areas. Dock and location wasn't packed or rushed.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Good options with lots of parking and cleaning areas. Dock and location wasn't packed or rushed.
Matt  J.
Matt J. Milpitas, CA
There is always something biting in San Diego and anything is possible from rockfish to marlin.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
There is always something biting in San Diego and anything is possible from rockfish to marlin.
Shane  S.
Shane S. Oak Glen, CA
Do the research, the more you know about where the fish are, the better chance you'll have of catching fish
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Do the research, the more you know about where the fish are, the better chance you'll have of catching fish
Matt  A.
Matt A. Sacramento, CA
Definitely invest in a guide - especially Lyle with Tight Line Therapy. You'll go to the best spots, with a professional who actually knows what they are doing - and who truly cares about your experience.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Definitely invest in a guide - especially Lyle with Tight Line Therapy. You'll go to the best spots, with a professional who actually knows what they are doing - and who truly cares about your experience.
Angele  H.
Angele H. Bemidji, Minnesota
Find an experienced fisherman to go out with. Itโ€™s a beautiful spot to spend the day too!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Find an experienced fisherman to go out with. Itโ€™s a beautiful spot to spend the day too!
Christine  M.
Christine M. Miami Beach, FL
The weather is really nice and the water is clear. The people and the environment are very nice.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The weather is really nice and the water is clear. The people and the environment are very nice.
Wojciech  W.
Wojciech W. 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.
Excellent
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.
Ari  T.
Ari T. Yuma, AZ
All the fish you want to catch are spawning and hitting and being caught at this time of year. Book charters out of san fran in july/august
Excellent
5.0 / 5
All the fish you want to catch are spawning and hitting and being caught at this time of year. Book charters out of san fran in july/august
Francis  M.
Francis M. East McKeesport, PA
Donโ€™t reel to quickly the fish have soft mouths and the hooks pop out right at the boat
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Donโ€™t reel to quickly the fish have soft mouths and the hooks pop out right at the boat
Roman  M.
Roman M. Meadow Vista, California
Water was cold for this time of time of year so there wasn't much action for yellowtail, tuna, or Dorado yet. July was fun, but will probably shoot for an August trip next time to try and get on some more meat for the freezer.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Water was cold for this time of time of year so there wasn't much action for yellowtail, tuna, or Dorado yet. July was fun, but will probably shoot for an August trip next time to try and get on some more meat for the freezer.
Jesse  C.
Jesse C. Phoenix, AZ
If you have never been on the open ocean, make sure you take dramamine the night before and day of.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you have never been on the open ocean, make sure you take dramamine the night before and day of.
Justin  S.
Justin S. Los Angeles, California

Lake Tahoe Fishing Trips
Lake Tahoe Fishing Trips
Fishing charter in Carnelian Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(121 reviews)
We got 7 fish on the boat and at least 4 others that got away. My kids and wife had a blast. We will definitely have to plan another trip.
Brandon  R.
Brandon R.
SD Slot Machine Charter
SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(79 reviews)
Capt. Dan is a great captain, very knowledgeable and a pleasure to fish with! He was very good with communication prior to the trip and very thorough. Next time I am in the area I will definitely go again!
John  C.
John C.
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Reel Obsession Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Bodega Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(29 reviews)
Met up with Captain Ty and Deckhand Nick, great hard working guys who took care of everything. Had them cooked, cleaned and ready for transport to SoCal. Great 1st time experience for my wife and I. Will be retiurning for next year. Thanks Guys!
Kiyo  N.
Kiyo N.
Nautilus Excursions
Nautilus Excursions
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(176 reviews)
Embarking on this fishing journey from SF with Captain Ron was an absolute blast! The fun-filled atmosphere added an extra layer of enjoyment. Not only did we revel in the stunning views, but we also triumphantly reeled in crabs and striped bass. Success was sweet, making this trip an exhilarating and memorable fishing escapade. Highly recommend for both the seasoned angler and those seeking a lively aquatic adventure!
Eve  Z.
Eve Z.
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(49 reviews)
Our captain was amazing at giving us a memorable and fun experience. We saw all sorts of wildlife and caught a fish every few minutes.
Robin  D.
Robin D.
Fernandez Charters
Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
Had a wonderful time with Captain Ian who would not rest until we hit our Lobster Limit! He answered any questions we had and gave us great insight on their techniques. Would recommend to anyone who wants to try!
Arianna  L.
Arianna L. Upland, California
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Captain AL was a pleasure to work with. He knew how to fish the area and put us on some good fish in the bay. Be sure to contact him before reserving your trip for any current specials! Thanks AL!
Shane  D.
Shane D.
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Silva Scales N' Tales Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(15 reviews)
Captain Mike was fantastic to work with. He got a hold of me several days before the trip and briefed me on everything. He could not have been more accommodating and friendly. He had snacks and drinks on the boat and made sure we caught fish. We stayed out later at no extra charge just to make sure we could catch a few more fish. I would highly recommend it!
Bart  H.
Bart H.
ROGEZAC Sportfishing
ROGEZAC Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Los Angeles
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(116 reviews)
Capt Roger made the trip fun and enjoyable. Kept moving the boat until we found fish and had the patience of a saint. During and after the trip he took plenty of pics and videos for us to remember the good time we had. Highly recommend!
Bob  G.
Bob G.
Fernandez Charters
Fernandez Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
Crew was great and knowledgeable. Didn't take long to get to the fish. Highly recommend ๐Ÿ‘Œ
Timothy  F.
Timothy F.
Mystic Queen Sportfishing
Mystic Queen Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Los Angeles
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(71 reviews)
Thanks to Captain Harry and Daniel for a great experience. Super helpful throughout and great customer service/experience. Tons of fish!
Jason  T.
Jason T.
Addictive Sport Fishing
Addictive Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
We had such a great day in the Bay! Caught 7 Sturgeon!!! Canโ€™t wait to go back out on
Christopher  H.
Christopher H.
Good Times Sportfishing
Good Times Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(106 reviews)
Captain Phil was so kind and helpful with my boys (13 & 9) as they were new to this type of fishing and he did an outstanding job. Everyone caught multiple fish and the kids were absolutely delighted! What a fun family outing and would highly recommend Captain Phil and his boat to anyone!
Kenneth  J.
Kenneth J.
Blue Horizon Sportfishing
Blue Horizon Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Oceanside
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(20 reviews)
Awesome day, caught a lot of fish, relaxed environment, great crew and captain, helping us have a great day on the water.
Trevor  G.
Trevor G.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(60 reviews)
Captain, crew, boat are all fantastic. Canโ€™t wait to go out with them again.
Patrick  R.
Patrick R.
Kamryn Dawson Charters
Kamryn Dawson Charters
Fishing charter in Los Angeles
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(98 reviews)
5 person outing at the end of the season could not have gone better. Captain and crew put us right where we needed to be to hook some big fish and even bigger smiles. Definitely a repeat customer.
Todd  G.
Todd G.
The Long Run Sportfishing
The Long Run Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(190 reviews)
I recommend the charter. We had a great half day of fishing and we all caught fish.
James  P.
James P.
fishSFbay
fishSFbay
Fishing charter in Richmond
Very good
3.3 / 5
(60 reviews)
First nice people and nice boat. Wouldn't let us throw a line and watched them crab for 4 hours. Felt like we paid for them to catch their limits in crab. We booked the night before then they called 6am day of trip and acted like they were doing us a favor. We are avid fishermen and have been on 20+charters. This was by far the most disappointing and boring one yet. They would hardly let us even throw a line. I think I would spend the $1800 on another charter
Christy  E.
Christy E.
Risen Tide Sportfishing
Risen Tide Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Coronado
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
Had a great time with Eric. He knows all the spots and has a great route planned. Highlight was a successful battle with a leopard shark. Highly recommend him for fishing in San Diego.
Daniel  G.
Daniel G.
Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(224 reviews)
Awesome trip to the Coronado islands! Had a great time with Captain Shaun. Super knowledgeable, professional, courteous, and took us to a bunch of spots with tons of fish bite(we caught 14 different species! ). If you are looking for a fishing charter, look no further, just go with Shaun. See my Google review for a more detailed info! Thanks again Shaun, you are amazing!
Helen  W.
Helen W.