California Fishing Charters
California fishing charters range from offshore tuna runs out of San Diego to trout drifts on the Sierra rivers and halibut hunts in the San Francisco Bay.
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Top Rated Charters in California
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California Fishing Guide
California’s fisheries cover a lot of ground—literally. You’ve got cold Pacific water hugging the north coast, kelp beds and surf breaks down south, and a massive inland system of lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Offshore charters out of San Diego and Orange County target bluefin, yellowtail, dorado, and more depending on the season. Some full-day runs go 50+ miles out, especially when the tuna push in close. Nearshore trips stay tighter to kelp lines and reefs for calico bass, rockfish, lingcod, and halibut.
The central coast around Morro Bay and Monterey sees more rugged shoreline fishing—rocky drop-offs, deep-water structure, and big salmon runs. Northern California’s Humboldt Bay and Crescent City are strongholds for Pacific halibut and Dungeness crab in season. On the freshwater side, the Delta system and rivers like the Sacramento and Feather bring consistent action for striped bass, sturgeon, and salmon. Charter guides often drift live bait or plug in the current seams depending on water clarity and flows.
Reservoirs like Shasta, Clear Lake, and Castaic are staples for bass, trout, and landlocked kings. Spring and fall see the most traffic, with trolling, jigging, and drop-shot rigs common depending on species. Most inland trips are half-day or three-quarter, with easy ramp access and trailer-based guides. Coastal saltwater trips are usually out of harbors like Dana Point, Ventura, Bodega Bay, and Shelter Cove—just depends how rugged or urban you want it.
Regional Fishing Highlights
Southern California Coast
From Santa Barbara down to San Diego, it’s all about calico bass in the kelp, yellowtail on the outer banks, and big tuna offshore when conditions line up. Half-day charters hit the reefs and structure, while full-days or overnights chase pelagics off the Coronado Islands or Tanner Bank. Anchovy or sardine fly-lines are standard, with dropper loops for deeper spots.
Central Coast & Big Sur
Rugged coastline with steep drops, productive reefs, and solid lingcod and rockfish hauls. Morro Bay, Avila Beach, and Monterey are popular jump-off points. Salmon still show up strong in the right windows, and the rockfish limits make for solid meat runs. Charter boats here tend to be versatile and know how to work changing weather.
San Francisco Bay & Delta
The Bay Area has its own rhythm—halibut and striped bass inshore, sturgeon up the Delta, and salmon trolled outside the Gate. Drifting live anchovies or herring is the go-to in the Bay. Out past the Golden Gate Bridge, full-day charters work the Farallon Islands and Marin coast for deeper species when the weather cooperates.
Northern Coast & Humboldt Bay
Sierra Nevada Lakes & Rivers
Trout country. Think Lake Tahoe, Crowley Lake, and the Truckee River. Fly fishing, trolling, and bait dunking all work depending on time of year and elevation. Summer sees the heaviest pressure, but fall can be prime for big browns. Guides run smaller boats or wade depending on location.
Fishing Seasons in California
Spring
The bays and rivers come alive—halibut move into San Francisco Bay, stripers push into the Delta, and rockfish season reopens offshore. Freshwater lakes see trout feeding up as the water warms. Spring can be windy, but it’s a good time for variety and pre-spawn action.
Summer
Prime time offshore. Southern California sees bluefin and yellowtail show up offshore, while rockfish and calico bass fill coolers inshore. Freshwater sees solid bass fishing, though mid-day slows things down in the heat. Mountain lakes hold steady trout action early and late in the day.
Fall
Big fish season. NorCal salmon push up the rivers, while offshore trips chase the tail end of tuna and yellowtail. Striped bass feed hard before winter, and lake trout start cruising shallow again. The crowds thin out, but the bite often heats up before the first cold fronts.
Winter
Things slow, but there’s still fishing. Crab and sand dabs dominate trips up north, while SoCal anglers poke around for sculpin, bass, and winter halibut. The Delta turns into a sturgeon game, and trout plants keep some of the lowland lakes going. It’s the least predictable but often least crowded season.
Most Popular Gamefish in California
- Bluefin Tuna – 30–250 lbs. Caught offshore from SoCal boats in summer and fall. Trolled, fly-lined, or on jigs near banks and paddies.
- Yellowtail – 10–40 lbs. Targeted around kelp beds, offshore islands, and structure. Fly-lined sardines or yoyo jigs are common.
- California Halibut – 5–30 lbs. Found in bays and nearshore flats. Drifting live bait like anchovies or trolling works best.
- Lingcod – 10–25 lbs. Pulled from reefs and rocky bottom. Swimbaits, metal jigs, and whole squid rigs do the job.
- Rockfish – 1–6 lbs. Caught year-round offshore. Dropper loops and shrimp flies over structure.
- Chinook Salmon – 10–30 lbs. Trolled offshore or near river mouths. Hoochies, bait heads, or spinners depending on the area.
- Striped Bass – 5–25 lbs. Caught in the Delta, rivers, and San Francisco Bay. Live bait, plugs, or trolling tactics.
- Sturgeon – 30–100+ lbs. Found in the Delta and San Pablo Bay. Soaked roe or eel on heavy rigs near deep channels.
- Largemouth Bass – 1–10 lbs. Found in reservoirs and lakes. Targeted with soft plastics, jigs, or topwater early/late.
- Rainbow Trout – 1–5 lbs. Stocked in lakes and caught in mountain streams. PowerBait, lures, and flies all work.
California Fishing FAQs
Do I need a fishing license in California?
Yes, anyone 16 or older needs a California fishing license for both freshwater and saltwater. Ocean charters usually include a 1-day license in the price.
When is the best time for deep sea fishing in California?
Late spring through early fall is best, especially July–October when offshore tuna, yellowtail, and dorado are active.
What should I bring on a California fishing charter?
Bring sun protection, layers, food, and a valid ID. Most gear and bait are included, but check with your captain in advance.
Where are the best places to fish in Southern California?
San Diego, Dana Point, and Long Beach are great for offshore and inshore trips. Each has quick access to reefs and pelagic runs.
Can I keep the fish I catch in California?
Yes, as long as the species is in season and within size and bag limits. Captains will help you follow the rules.
What kind of fish are in the California Delta?
Striped bass, sturgeon, largemouth bass, and catfish are common. Spring and fall are peak times for action.
Is crabbing allowed on fishing charters?
Yes, especially in Northern California. Dungeness crab trips usually run from November through late winter.
Are California fishing charters kid-friendly?
Many are, especially half-day inshore trips. Just let the captain know ahead of time so they can prepare.
Do California lakes allow boat fishing?
Yes, most major lakes have boat ramps and allow fishing from kayaks to full-sized bass boats. Some require a day-use permit.