Damn Good Inshore Fishing Charters In San Diego

Check real-time availability and compare rates on San Diego inshore fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters In San Diego, Ca

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

6 Hr (AM Or PM)

100% (2)
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in San Diego

PIER FISHING ADVENTURES

NEW
1 - 4 People From $75
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day Inshore/Coastal

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Inshore/Coastal (9 Hr.)

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,395
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Rockfish And Yellowtail

NEW
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Bay Half Day Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300

Top Types of Inshore Trips in San Diego

Top Species for Inshore Fishing in San Diego

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Target Species in San Diego

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More Inshore Fishing Charters In San Diego, Ca

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Bay Half Day Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300
Fishing in Destin
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Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Rockfish And Yellowtail

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38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Inshore/Coastal (9 Hr.)

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,395
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day Inshore/Coastal

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in San Diego

PIER FISHING ADVENTURES

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1 - 4 People From $75
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Fishing in Destin
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6 Hr (AM Or PM)

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30 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
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Fishing in Destin
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3/4 Day - Offshore Banks (9 Hr.)

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,995
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Full Day Offshore Banks (12 Hr)

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $2,295
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Fishing in Destin
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Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 31’ Chris Craft

50% (2)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Full Day Local Offshore

50% (2)
31 ft 1 - 5 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Half Day Roundup

100% (1)
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $925
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego 3/4 Day Roundup

100% (1)
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,375
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Coronado Islands Expedition

100% (1)
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,895
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San Diego Offshore Roundup

100% (1)
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $2,195
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Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Long Run Offshore - 42' Hershine

50% (2)
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $5,100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Fishing Fun

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1 - 4 People From $1,050
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Offshore On The Fly SoCal

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30 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,980
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

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Mako Shark On The Fly

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30 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,400

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Everything to Know About Booking a San Diego inshore fishing charter

What are the best inshore fishing charters in San Diego?

Why should I book an inshore fishing charter in San Diego with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 8 inshore trips in San Diego, and the most popular trips in the area are Inshore/Coastal (9 hr.) guided by Scottie, PIER FISHING ADVENTURES guided by Theodore, and 6 hr (AM or PM) guided by Shaun.

Our guides in San Diego are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3787 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly inshore guides / fishing lessons in San Diego? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in San Diego.

What types of inshore fishing charters are common in San Diego?

The most commonly sought after species for inshore fishing are: 1. halibut, 2. rockfish, 3. yellowtail amberjack, 4. barracuda, and 5. calico bass.

The most common fishing techniques in San Diego are light tackle fishing, trolling, and bottom fishing but heavy tackle fishing and artificial lure fishing are popular as well.

How much do San Diego inshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for inshore fishing in San Diego can range anywhere from about $150 to $1,395, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in San Diego is $367. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in San Diego is $1,200.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for inshore fishing in San Diego?

The most popular season for inshore fishing in San Diego is summer, and most anglers book their trips 48 days in advance.

Do I need a San Diego fishing license and what are the bag limits in San Diego?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in San Diego, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in San Diego. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in San Diego.

What is inshore fishing in San Diego about?

Inshore fishing in San Diego, California, offers anglers a unique blend of scenic coastline and abundant marine biodiversity. Situated along the Pacific Ocean, San Diego provides a diverse array of inshore fishing opportunities year-round. Whether casting lines from piers, fishing off rocky jetties, or exploring the calm waters of bays and estuaries, anglers can target a variety of species close to shore. Common catches include spotted bay bass, calico bass, halibut, and various species of surfperch, each offering a thrilling challenge and delicious rewards for the angler's efforts.

San Diego's mild Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal destination for inshore fishing enthusiasts throughout the seasons. During the summer months, warmer waters attract larger game fish such as yellowtail and white seabass closer to shore, enticing anglers to venture out for exciting battles against these prized catches. Fall and winter bring cooler temperatures but also herald the arrival of migratory species like bonito and barracuda, adding diversity to the inshore fishing experience. Whether fishing from a chartered boat or casting from the shoreline, the accessibility and variety of fishing spots in San Diego make it a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking memorable fishing adventures.

Local fishing charters and guides in San Diego offer invaluable knowledge of the best fishing spots and techniques tailored to different skill levels. From fly fishing in the calm waters of Mission Bay to trolling for pelagic species along the kelp beds of La Jolla, there's something for everyone interested in exploring the city's rich inshore fishing opportunities. Beyond the thrill of the catch, inshore fishing in San Diego provides a chance to enjoy the city's stunning coastal scenery, mild weather, and vibrant marine life, making it a rewarding experience for anglers of all backgrounds.

What are the most popular months to go inshore fishing in San Diego?

In San Diego, California, inshore fishing seasons are influenced by the region's unique climate and the migratory patterns of various fish species along the Pacific coast. The inshore fishing season typically peaks during the warmer months from late spring through summer. This period sees an abundance of species like calico bass, halibut, and yellowtail congregating in the shallower coastal waters and around kelp forests. Anglers can enjoy productive outings targeting these species using a variety of techniques such as live bait fishing, lure casting, and even fly fishing in some areas.

Fall in San Diego marks a transition period where water temperatures begin to cool, prompting changes in fish behavior and distribution. While some warm-water species may still be active, migratory species like bonito and barracuda become more prevalent as they move closer to shore. This time of year offers exciting opportunities for anglers seeking a diverse range of catches and adapting their strategies to the shifting seasonal dynamics.

During the winter months, San Diego experiences cooler temperatures, which can slow down inshore fishing activity compared to the peak season. However, this period is not without its rewards, as anglers can target resident species like spotted bay bass and sand bass that remain active in the calmer coastal waters and estuaries. Local fishing guides and charters in San Diego are invaluable resources for navigating these seasonal changes, providing insights into the best spots and techniques to maximize success year-round. Whether it's the thrill of battling a trophy fish during the warmer months or the challenge of outsmarting local species in cooler waters, San Diego's inshore fishing scene offers diverse opportunities for anglers to enjoy the sport amid the city's stunning coastal backdrop.

What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in San Diego?

Inshore fishing in San Diego, California, offers anglers a variety of types and techniques tailored to the region's diverse coastal environments. One popular method is pier fishing, where anglers can cast lines from the city's numerous piers extending into the Pacific Ocean. Pier fishing in San Diego provides access to a range of species such as halibut, bass, and surfperch, with the opportunity to vary techniques from bait fishing to using artificial lures depending on the targeted fish and conditions.

For those looking to explore San Diego's rocky shorelines and jetties, rock fishing is a favored technique. This method involves fishing from rocky outcroppings or jetties using heavy tackle to handle the rugged terrain and strong currents. Species commonly targeted include rockfish, lingcod, and cabezon, which thrive in the rocky habitats along the coast. Anglers often use bait such as squid or live anchovies to entice these bottom-dwelling fish, employing techniques like jigging or bottom fishing to maximize their chances of a successful catch.

San Diego's extensive network of bays, estuaries, and lagoons also provides ample opportunities for kayak fishing enthusiasts. Kayak fishing allows anglers to access shallow waters and navigate through areas inaccessible by larger boats, making it ideal for targeting species like spotted bay bass, halibut, and even leopard sharks. Anglers typically use light tackle and artificial lures or live bait while enjoying the serene waters and abundant wildlife of San Diego's coastal ecosystems. Whether fishing from shore, pier, or kayak, San Diego's diverse inshore fishing techniques cater to anglers of all skill levels and preferences, promising memorable experiences amid the city's picturesque coastal scenery.

What species are popular for inshore fishing in San Diego?

Inshore fishing in San Diego, California offers anglers a rich diversity of species to target throughout the year. One of the most sought-after catches is the calico bass, also known as kelp bass, which inhabits the kelp forests and rocky reefs along the coast. Known for their strong fight and tasty flesh, calico bass are a favorite among local anglers using techniques such as casting with artificial lures or live bait fishing near the kelp beds. Another prized species is the halibut, which can be found in sandy bottom areas and near estuaries. Anglers often use live bait like anchovies or squid, as well as drifting techniques, to entice these flatfish.

San Diego's inshore waters also provide excellent opportunities for catching various species of surfperch. These fish are commonly found in the surf zone along sandy beaches, where they feed on small crustaceans and mollusks. Anglers targeting surfperch typically use light tackle and bait such as sand crabs or bloodworms, casting into the waves and retrieving slowly to attract bites. Additionally, for those seeking a bit more adventure, San Diego offers chances to hook into game fish like yellowtail and white seabass during the warmer months. These pelagic species can be found closer to shore, especially around kelp forests and underwater structure, making them exciting targets for anglers using techniques ranging from live bait fishing to trolling with lures.

Throughout the year, the diversity of species and fishing techniques in San Diego's inshore waters ensures there's always something new to experience and explore for anglers of all skill levels. Whether casting from piers, exploring rocky jetties, or paddling through tranquil bays on a kayak, the thrill of landing a prized catch against the backdrop of San Diego's stunning coastal scenery makes every fishing trip a memorable adventure.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip wonderful time. We caught an astonishing variety of fish! Everyone had a great time.

    John H. | October 11, 2023

    Trip: 6 hr (AM or PM)

  • ★★★★★
    Bobby was our captain and he treated myself, my son and my grandson like we owned the boat. He was very professional and courteous and answered all our questions. He gave us choices which no other service has in the past. This was much appreciated and I plan on returning again.

    John P. | June 5, 2023

    Trip: 6 hr (AM or PM)

Other Types of Fishing in San Diego

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