California Fishing Charters

The average price for a private 4 hour California fishing trip is US $853, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,478 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in California are good for families?

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

What are the top fish species I can catch in California?

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

What are the top fishing techniques in California?

The top 3 fishing techniques in California are:

What are the top types of fishing in California?

The top 3 types of fishing in California are:

Do California fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

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

Who are the best rated captains in California?

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?

Who are the top awarded captains in California?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in California?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in California are:

3-hour fishing trips – US $698
4-hour fishing trips – US $770
5-hour fishing trips – US $1,005
6-hour fishing trips – US $1,028
7-hour fishing trips – US $1,000
8-hour fishing trips – US $1,504
9-hour fishing trips – US $1,800
10-hour fishing trips – US $1,944
11-hour fishing trips – US $1,767
12-hour fishing trips – US $2,427
16-hour fishing trips – 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

4.9 / 5

Based on 28562 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

White Seabass: We're caught over 200 in '19.

What anglers said about fishing in California

I feel like April is early this year for tahoe. Warmer days bring more consistent fishing. But getting out on a boat with an experienced captain definitely pays off

5.0 / 5

I feel like April is early this year for tahoe. Warmer days bring more consistent fishing. But getting out on a boat with an experienced captain definitely pays off

Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996

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

Rob was is an amazing captain and super knowledgeable, I highly recommend you give him a chance and book a trip if you're looking to experience high quality fishing experiences.

5.0 / 5

Rob was is an amazing captain and super knowledgeable, I highly recommend you give him a chance and book a trip if you're looking to experience high quality fishing experiences.

Northern California Guide Service –Sacramento

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

It’s definitely a morning bite so the earlier, the better. Bite all but died completely by 10:30am. But from 6-10am it was on fire! Had 3 fish in within the first 15 mins.

5.0 / 5

It’s definitely a morning bite so the earlier, the better. Bite all but died completely by 10:30am. But from 6-10am it was on fire! Had 3 fish in within the first 15 mins.

Trophy Chaser Guide Service

Dana Point is a beautiful harbor, short ride to get to the fishing grounds and plenty of action! Highly recommend these guys

5.0 / 5

Dana Point is a beautiful harbor, short ride to get to the fishing grounds and plenty of action! Highly recommend these guys

Pacific Mistress Sportfishing Laguna Niguel, California

Plan on at least 4 hrs and patience and persistence! The Captain make the trip- catching fish is a bonus! Enjoy the ride!

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

Bring a jacket it can get a little chilly! And don’t forget your sunglasses! :)

5.0 / 5

Bring a jacket it can get a little chilly! And don’t forget your sunglasses! :)

Last Meal Sportfishing

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!!!

5.0 / 5

Ez Sportfishing

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

The fish we caught were fillet by the first mate. They were absolutely delicious. Thank you so much.

5.0 / 5

The fish we caught were fillet by the first mate. They were absolutely delicious. Thank you so much.

Warrior Poet Sportfishing

Not as good fishing conditions as other months, but you can still catch fish. We weren’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.

5.0 / 5

Delta BASSN’ Guide Service

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

Give your self extra time as the shop is small and takes a little time to get your license

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

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!

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

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

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!

5.0 / 5

Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996

Weather was perfect for a T shirt and jeans or a lightweight sweater. 10 out 10 would recommend

5.0 / 5

Weather was perfect for a T shirt and jeans or a lightweight sweater. 10 out 10 would recommend

SF Boat Support

Get upstanding about parking and the time you need to be so that you are not to early

5.0 / 5

Get upstanding about parking and the time you need to be so that you are not to early

fishSFbay

How did anglers rate fishing charters in California?

Last Meal Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Moss Landing

5.0 / 5

(11 reviews)

Everything was fantastic—Stephan and Keith absolutely know what they are doing. So much fun. Nice boat. Plan to visit and utilize again

Charlie S.

Ez Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Huntington Beach

5.0 / 5

(56 reviews)

We caught so many white fish! Red snapper and even caught a cabezón .. capt Eric and Randy were the best.. very helpful with everything we had questions on.. definitely coming back 🙏🏼

Jimmy M.

Delta BASSN’ Guide Service
Fishing charter in Bethel Island

5.0 / 5

(42 reviews)

Frank is a great guide with top shelf equipment and the Delta is a great spot for bass. The bite was off a bit, so we only boated a few decent-sized largemouth, but you can't control that. Overall, highly recommended.

Jonathan N.

Tahoe Topliners Fishing – Est. 1996
Fishing charter in South Lake Tahoe

5.0 / 5

(4 reviews)

Mike took myself and my 2 boys out for the day. The experience Captain Mike gave us was full of fun, education and got them off their devices and engaged in the process. We caught a bunch of fish and had a bonding adventure that will be a positive memory for ever.

Nicholas P.

The Big Anchovy
Fishing charter in Santa Cruz

5.0 / 5

(2 reviews)

Erik runs a great charter. He’s very personable and does everything he can to get you on the fish. It’s a great trip for one or two if you’re in the area!

Jeremy S.

Blue Knuckles Sportfishing Charters
Fishing charter in Moss Landing

5.0 / 5

(3 reviews)

Chris is the best -we caught our limit. He is extremely accommodating and just easy going. He is an absolute pleasure to fish with and knows what he is doing. We plan to fish with him on future excursions.

Charlie S.

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.

ROGEZAC Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Los Angeles

5.0 / 5

(132 reviews)

Took my 7 and 9 year old out. The fish were biting the whole time. My daughter and son both caught seven fish. Great time, would 100% recommend.

Nathan D.

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.

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.

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.

Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco

5.0 / 5

(450 reviews)

I took my son and daughter on a fishing trip while my wife was working and it was the greatest time! The guys were awesome, even my antisocial 12 y/o daughter loved them! Highly recommend 10/10

Dave C.

ROGEZAC Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Los Angeles

5.0 / 5

(132 reviews)

Wir waren mit Captain Roger auf einem 4-Stunden-Angeltrip unterwegs und fuhren mehrere Hotspots an. Ausbeute war hervorragend: Rotbarsch, Ziegelbarsch, Seeskorpion, Schafskopfbarsch… Da wir im Hotel keine Kochmöglichkeit hatten, ließen wir den Fisch bei Rogers Mutter im Restaurant zubereiten! Best Fish & chips ever!!! Sehr empfehlenswert!!!

Michael D. W.

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

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.

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.

LEAHKLEA Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Los Angeles

5.0 / 5

(14 reviews)

Captain Roger provided a great experience for our group of 6 inexperienced anglers. I brought my son and daughter along with 3 of their friends on for a 6 hour fishing trip. The teens’ ages ranged from 16-18 years old. Captain Roger was very knowledgeable and took us to a few spots and kept our group busy catching fish the entirety of the trip. We talked about coming back on for a tuna trip in the future when they’re in season. Will definitely book again and highly recommend.