If you’re in the area, don’t miss out on the world class deep sea fishing Newport Beach has access to. When you combine the sunny skies of SoCal with the Bluewater offshore, it’s a recipe for monster fish and some unforgettable battles. This adventure could take you anywhere from Santa Catalina to the Coronado Islands of Mexico or far out into the open ocean for days on end. You never know what will bite next out here, and no two catches are the same. Whether you’re aiming to set a new world record or just hoping to break your own, there’s a fish with your name on it!
What to Catch and When
Deep sea fishing is a year-round event in Newport Beach. You can catch Halibut, White Seabass, and Calico Bass any time while bottom fishing around the rocky shores of Catalina and San Clemente Island. To maximize your opportunities, however, we recommend fishing between April and November, when many other bottom fish are open to harvest and migratory pelagics show up.
The season starts strong with Lingcod, Rockfish, Yellowtail, and Barracuda available near the islands in spring. By summer, a new cast of characters arrives on the scene, including Bluefin Tuna and monster Sharks. They’re followed closely by Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and Marlin. Many of these species will continue biting off the coast of Newport Beach until November.
To make the most of your deep sea fishing experience, consider a trip down south to the Coronado Islands, or head 60+ miles offshore. These excursions call for some serious stamina, often lasting 12-24 hours, or longer if you choose to book multiple days. Rest assured that you’ll be well rewarded when you hook into the likes of Marlin, Wahoo, Albacore Tuna, massive Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna, and behemoth Sharks.
How to Fish
Deep sea fishing in Newport Beach combines many methods, primarily trolling and bottom fishing. You can expect to bottom fish for Halibut, Rockfish, Lingcod, and other bottom dwellers. Fast trolling attracts surface feeders such as Marlin, Wahoo, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and more.
Depending on your captain’s insight, you might try more specialized techniques such as fly lining or kite fishing. Kite fishing is mostly reserved for Bluefin Tuna in areas around San Diego. Live Mackerel or lures like Yummy Flyers work well.
Fly lining live bait produces Yellowtail, Barracuda, and Bonito. This tactic involves attaching a live bait to an unweighted hook so that it can swim freely. Anglers typically fly line near artificial reefs and other feeding grounds for these fish.
