California Fishing Charters

The best out of 208 charter fishing deals in California - enter dates to check availability

Top California Destinations

California: 208 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(189 reviews)
Coronado
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $699
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(43 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $600
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(133 reviews)
Newport Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $850
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(14 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $900
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(57 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $695
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(33 reviews)
Huntington Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $705
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(74 reviews)
Los Angeles
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $750
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(26 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $250
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(93 reviews)
San Diego
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $550
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(129 reviews)
Los Angeles
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $480

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 $855, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,466 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 $698
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $761
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,002
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,018
  • 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 28446 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

Itโ€™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.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Itโ€™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
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
Excellent
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
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!
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
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
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
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

How did anglers rate fishing charters in California?

Blue Knuckles Sportfishing Charters
Blue Knuckles Sportfishing Charters
Fishing charter in Moss Landing
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
We started off sighting whales, caught dab and nabbed a couple of crab. Great day Thanks
David  L.
David L.
Sealutions Sportfishing LLC, Newport Beach
Sealutions Sportfishing LLC, Newport Beach
Fishing charter in Newport Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(133 reviews)
We had a good trip today, caught plenty of Sculpin to have ourselves a feast shortly after getting back on land. Captain Shannon was on time, boat was clean, was great with the kids, and even put us on to a place that prepared our fresh catch for lunch. Weโ€™d definitely look to Sealutions first on our next trip to OC.
Zach  A.
Zach A.
TC's Fishing Adventures
TC's Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(40 reviews)
First time fishing in San Diego and it was awesome! Loved the setup and all of the advice. My son caught six fish and had a blast. We will be back, thanks!
Marie  L.
Marie L.
Argo Sportfishing
Argo Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Francisco
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(174 reviews)
The captain and his crew were very helpful specially because we had no experience and they were patient with us. Iโ€™m glad we went with The Argo.
Sonia  Z.
Sonia Z.
Kraken Sportfishing
Kraken Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(127 reviews)
The fishing was slow, but captain Leng did put us on fish with a couple of keepers too. Thanks again for the the last minute trip as we had to cancel a prior trip due to bad weather.
Tong  X.
Tong X.
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing Charters Of San Diego
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(57 reviews)
We had a fabulous experience. There were 5 work colleagues along with my step daughterโ€™s fiancรฉ. (He hooked a shark!!!) We all caught a few fish and had 10 whitefish to keep for dinner. Yummy! Gavin and Brian were patient and hospitable! It was well worth it! I hope to book another charter soon!
Glenn  G.
Glenn G. Backi Monostor, Vojvodina
Sealutions Sportfishing LLC, Newport Beach
Sealutions Sportfishing LLC, Newport Beach
Fishing charter in Newport Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(133 reviews)
Our family of 4 were going out for our first deep sea experience. We were going off season and my only hope was that the kids got to pull something in. Well after getting situated we were able to pull about 10 fish an hour. Captain Shannon was great with the kids and generally showing us the routine. I would 100% go out again on this trip.
Adam  N.
Adam N.
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(43 reviews)
Three of us booked the 4 hour bay trip on March 22. We landed a mix of 17 fish, and lost many more. Captain Al was a pleasure. Make sure he brings his dog along.
Peter  S.
Peter S.
Sealutions Sportfishing LLC, Newport Beach
Sealutions Sportfishing LLC, Newport Beach
Fishing charter in Newport Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(133 reviews)
Spent my son's 33rd birthday fishing with Captain Shannon. Couldn't have been nicer. Thanks Captain!
Jim  P.
Jim P.
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(43 reviews)
Top review for anyone wanting a reasonably priced and knowledgeable Captain to help bring fish into the boat. A+++
Robert  M.
Robert M.
SD Slot Machine Charter
SD Slot Machine Charter
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(93 reviews)
Our family had a great time on our trip. Captain Dan was knowledgeable, friendly, and we caught lots of fish. We would definitely book with him again!
Missy  E.
Missy E.
Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(237 reviews)
Great day of fishing. Shaun was a great captain and fun to talk to. Got us to the fish, weather was perfect. Highly recommend Pelican
Ron  G.
Ron G.
ROGEZAC Sportfishing
ROGEZAC Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Los Angeles
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(129 reviews)
Less than ideal conditions but we got our Sheephead limit in an hour and half and ended the day 5 short of a Whitefish limit as well.
Nick  P.
Nick P.
Awol Sportfishing
Awol Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(92 reviews)
The Captain on the boat went out of his way for my daughter and I to have a wonderful time. We really appreciate the time and energy he put forth today. We will definitely be back. Highly recommended if you want a good time on the water.
Willie  S.
Willie S.
Captain Jack's Sportfishing
Captain Jack's Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(3 reviews)
Captain Jack was amazing! He knows his stuff and took great care of us! Put us right on top of the sharks and helped us bring in 6 in no time at all! Great time, great trip, great captain!
Seth  C.
Seth C.
Diamond Dogs Charters
Diamond Dogs Charters
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(43 reviews)
We had and excellent trip. The captain keep us on fish the entire trip. He is very fun to fish with. I highly recommend Diamond Dogs.
Chris  M.
Chris M.
Kraken Sportfishing
Kraken Sportfishing
Fishing charter in San Diego
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(127 reviews)
I booked with Capt. Leng and Kraken Sport Foshing for an 8 hour trip with my 16 year old son. Capt. Leng was very helpful and patient in teaching us what we needed to know and do to make it a successful trip out. We enjoyed ourselves and would not hesitate to go out with Kraken again. One note - we went on March 18th which was very early in the season so not much action on bigger fish. Certainly no commentary on the Capt. or boat - just a learning point for me.
Samuel  D.  P.
Samuel D. P.
Pacific Mistress Sportfishing
Pacific Mistress Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Dana Point
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Anton and his crew were amazing with my family, we caught tons of fish and was the highlight of our entire vacation! I would highly recommend these guys!
Will  T.
Will T. Laguna Niguel, 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.
Risen Tide Sportfishing
Risen Tide Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Coronado
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(189 reviews)
Eric was a great guide for our family as he coached everyone to fish with proper technique and assisted by taking the fish off the hook. Also enjoyed being able to spend time on the bay
Rod  K.
Rod K.

Top Fishing Techniques in California

Top Targeted Species in California