California Lobster Fishing Charters

38 Fishing Charters

The best out of 38 charter fishing deals in California - enter dates to check availability

Top Lobster Fishing in California

    Fishing is typically inshore or within 5 miles offshore. We get some very big Halibut and Leopard and other Sharks as well as many Spotted Bay Bass. Local offshore is good for Bass, Baracuda, Bonito and Rockfish.

    Half Day inshore
    :
    US $799
    +7
  • Meet the Captain

    What's most folks' favorite seafood? About 75% say LOBSTER! We have beautiful spiny lobsters right here in San Diego. Join Capt. Brian for a five-hour experience setting and pulling your own lobster traps. Capt. Brian and his brother grew up setting their own blue crab traps (hard and soft shell) behind their home in eastern North Carolina, and they use the same hands-on techniques here in Southern California. It's a fun, engaging activity the whole family can enjoy! Charter runs from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM

    5 Hour Trip — Bay Lobster Fishing
    :
    US $650
    • Great Family Fun!

    Looking for a unique Southern California fishing adventure? Join Coletta Sportfishing for a San Diego lobster charter and experience the excitement of hoop netting California spiny lobster at night. These charters are hands-on, action-packed, and a great way to create unforgettable memories with friends, family, or coworkers. A valid California fishing license with a lobster report card is required (not provided) but can be purchased at the departure location.

    Lobster Fishing Charters - WANU
    :
    US $1,345

    DESIGNED FOR KIDS LOBSTER HOOPING crew members will serve your guests (6 passenger limit) for a fun 2 day hoop net and fishing adventure. Soda, water, snacks, and everything you need to catch a lifetime memory included. Bring your own fishing license and Lobster report card... Lodging and extra fun stuff are also available on the island.

    2 day Catalina lobster/ fishing
    :
    US $5,400
    +6
    • Dorodo!!!

    Fly Fishing is an option for this trip. If you're planning to go fly fishing, please let the captain know, to bring the fly rods. All fishing equipment is included in the price.

    8 Hour Trip
    :
    US $1,347
    +7
  • Angler's Choice
    • Local Dorado from an Epic Season!

    A short all inclusive package (other than a fishing license/ Food) for up to 6 passengers. This is a great trip for families with kids or beginners who don't want to stay on the water for too long.

    3 Hour Trip (AM)
    :
    US $835
  • Angler's Choice

    Target some delicious spiny Lobster on our coastline. Not the harbor! The limit is 7 Lobster per person and we provide all the gear and bait to catch it. You just need to bring a valid California fishing license and a Lobster report card. Also, bring food or drinks. Please take care of your crew, they will provide the best service, 15-20% is the average tip.

    7 Hour Trip – Coastline Lobster Run
    :
    US $1,750

    A 4-hour fishing trip for up to 4 people. Captain Kevin provides rods, reels, tackle, as well as catch cleaning.

    4 Hour Trip
    :
    US $693
    +7
  • Angler's Choice
    • Epic day on the water

    Looking for dinner? Join us on an evening hunt for Lobster. California lobster season opens at 6:00 a.m. on the Saturday preceding the first Wednesday in October and closes at 12:00 a.m. on the first Wednesday (night) after the 15th of March.

    Seasonal Lobster
    :
    US $750
See all charters

Recent Lobster catches in California

California Lobster Fishing Seasons

Lobster
Size
1–4 lb
Food Value
Excellent
Game Quality
None

Calendar

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Powered by AI

Lobster fishing in California, United States centers on the California Spiny Lobster. These “bugs” have no claws, firm tails, and delicious, sweet meat. Southern California’s rocky coastline and islands make a perfect home for them, especially after dark.

The most common method is hoop netting from a boat, pier, or jetty. A hoop net is a round baited net that sits on the bottom. Crews bait with oily fish like Mackerel or Squid, soak the nets, then haul and reset. Some divers also hand-catch Spiny Lobster where local rules allow.

Trips often start near sunset and run into the night. Runs are short and stay close to the coast, so beginners and families feel comfortable. Expect hands-on fun as you help bait, set, and pull the nets. Bring warm layers, non-slip shoes, light gloves, a small headlamp, and a cooler for your catch if allowed.

Productive areas include the Southern California coast from San Diego to Santa Barbara. Rocky reefs, breakwalls, harbor mouths, and kelp edges are classic spots. The Channel Islands, including Santa Catalina and San Clemente, also hold strong Spiny Lobster numbers. Local captains know when tidal movement and water clarity line up best.

Before you go, check California regulations for Lobster fishing. You may need a fishing license, report card, and specific gear. Seasons, permitted methods, and harvest rules can change and vary by area. Your captain can explain current rules, but anglers are responsible for following them.

Habitats
Inshore
Nearshore
Techniques
Handline

What anglers said about Lobster Fishing in California

  • 5.0
    /5
    (4 Hour Trip)

    Adams a awesome Captain

    supper fun half day catching:) Took are Tuna and Bass to the Lobster trap and that did it up right. Good Times and fish for sure.
    Adam P.
    Adam P.
    Reviewed on Jun 17, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (3 Hour Trip – Bay (PM))

    Captain Leng is the MAN !

    Captain Leng took me and my 3 buddies out fishing, and it was an experience we will never forget ! We went out boys and came back men. We had zero experience, but Captain Leng walked us through everything and taught us with kindness and patience. He was so generous and nice. We caught fish, and when we came back he even gave us a couple lobster. Truly an amazing captain and person, had an incredible time highly recommend !
    Brent H.
    Brent H.
    Reviewed on Mar 17, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (5 Hour Trip – Local Lobster)

    Lobster hunt

    1st time going out for lobster, and ROGEZACsportfishing set the bar very high from now on. Captain Rodger placed us in the right spot, filling our 4-man crew’s lobster limits. And let me tell you, they were huge. Big shout out to Rogezacsportfishing.
    Johnny B.
    Johnny B.
    Reviewed on Feb 20, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (6 Hour Trip – Local - 12:30 PM)

    Lobster trip with Captain Roger

    Had an amazing lobster trip with the Rogezac! This was my second trip with them, and both have been absolutely fantastic. The crew, the experience, and the overall adventure were all top-notch. I’ll definitely be booking more trips with the Rogezac — highly recommended!
    Chad G.
    Chad G.
    Reviewed on Feb 20, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (7hr coastal lobster trip)

    Lobster open party trip

    Finally was able to book a trip with captain Roger. I’m glad I did because the trip didn’t disappoint. The captain was able to located the lobsters and we all limited. The boat was clean and roomy. Will definitely go back.
    Vanhsy C.
    Vanhsy C.
    Reviewed on Dec 27, 2025

Fish Species Similar to Lobster in California