Leopard Shark Fishing Charters In San Diego

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Recently Booked Leopard Shark Fishing Charters Near San Diego, Ca

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Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 42’ Hershine

100% (1)
42 ft 1 - 12 People From $175 / person
Damn Good

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day Inshore/Coastal

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $244 / person
Damn Good

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 31’ Chris Craft

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person
Damn Good

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Inshore/Coastal (9 Hr.)

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $349 / person

Most Popular Types of Leopard Shark Trips in San Diego

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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Choose your trip by skill level

More Leopard Shark Fishing Charters Near San Diego, Ca

Damn Good

Embark on an exceptional nearshore fishing expedition with Captain Scottie's renowned 9-hour trip aboard his meticulously crafted 23ft Parker Pilothouse, situated in the picturesque waters of San Diego. With an impressive tenure of 9 years in the industry, Captain Scottie's seasoned expertise guarantees an unparalleled adventure. Join us for a day of angling that seamlessly blends the thrill of sport fishing with the serenity of the ocean. Our thoroughly maintained vessel offers state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring a secure and comfortable voyage for anglers of all skill levels. Experience the exhilaration of pursuing a diverse range of coveted species under the adept guidance of Captain Scottie. Throughout the trip, participants will have the opportunity to target a variety of captivating fish, including Halibut, Rockfish, Leopard Sharks, and Yellowtail Amberjack. Whether you're seeking the ultimate catch or simply craving a peaceful escape, our 9-hour journey promises an ideal fusion of excitement and relaxation. The rich marine life thriving in San Diego's nearshore expanse provides the backdrop for an extraordinary fishing encounter. Captain Scottie's profound familiarity with the local ecosystem and advanced fishing techniques ensures a rewarding experience for all on board. Engage with the best as you refine your angling prowess and uncover the intricacies of these remarkable species. Secure your spot aboard Captain Scottie's 23ft Parker Pilothouse for an unforgettable 9-hour excursion poised to craft enduring memories. Catering to avid anglers and leisure enthusiasts alike, our journey presents an exceptional blend of adventure and repose against the breathtaking canvas of San Diego's coastal allure. Reserve your adventure today and prepare to set sail on a remarkable chapter in the realm of nearshore fishing. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Inshore/Coastal (9 Hr.)

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $349 / person
Damn Good

Explore the inshore nearshore waters of the Pacific Ocean aboard one of the fastest, sleekest boats in San Diego on this trip with Captain Nathan! The cold, rich Pacific currents that flow along California's coast make San Diego an angler's paradise. The inshore and nearshore water here supports a superb marine ecosystem with tons of species, all of which you can go after with Captain Nathan. You'll be targeting Halibut, Barracuda, Rockfish, and Bonito—a smaller relative of the Tuna that puts up a fun fight. Each of these species occupies a different niche: Halibut lurk on the bottom, Barracuda patrol the middle of the water column, Rockfish hang out on the reefs and rocks, and Bonito inhabit the topwater looking for small prey. Naturally, you'll use different techniques to target these species, including trolling, bottomfishing, trolling, and jigging to pick up bites! Depending on the season, weather, and your fishing preferences, Captain Nathan will make sure that you're equipped with the right gear and tackle to get the job done. Captain Nathan runs a swift 31' Chris-Craft center console, equipped with twin Yamaha engines totaling 500 horsepower. With live wells, trolling gear, and more, she's the perfect vessel for a sweet trip. Captain Nathan and his crew will provide all rods, reels, bait, tackle, ice, small snacks and water. All you need to bring is a California Fishing License for 16 and older, as well as sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and any food or drinks you might want. There's also a cooler provided on board to store your food and drinks! Get out there and enjoy yourself on the beautiful Pacific Coast! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 31’ Chris Craft

NEW
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $167 / person
Damn Good

Embark on an Inshore Fishing Experience with Captain Scottie's 23ft Parker Pilothouse in San Diego. Join a remarkable inshore fishing expedition led by Captain Scottie, a seasoned expert with 9 years of experience in navigating San Diego's waters. Step aboard the meticulously maintained 23ft Parker Pilothouse, where comfort, excitement, and angling prowess converge against the backdrop of San Diego's coastal charm. Target an array of captivating species during your trip, including Halibut, Rockfish, Leopard Sharks, and Yellowtail Amberjack. Each moment casts a spotlight on the vibrant marine ecosystem thriving beneath the surface. Whether you're embarking on a solitary adventure, quality time with loved ones, or a distinctive corporate outing, Captain Scottie tailors each trip to suit your preferences. Expect a personalized and unforgettable day on the water. Discover the epitome of inshore fishing excellence with Captain Scottie's 23ft Parker Pilothouse. Elevate your angling aspirations and forge enduring memories on San Diego's pristine waters. Reserve your spot today for an adventure that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day Inshore/Coastal

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $244 / person
Damn Good

Explore the inshore nearshore waters of the Pacific Ocean aboard one of the fastest, sleekest boats in San Diego on this trip with Captain Nathan! The cold, rich Pacific currents that flow along California's coast make San Diego an angler's paradise. The inshore and nearshore water here supports a superb marine ecosystem with tons of species, all of which you can go after with Captain Nathan. You'll be targeting Halibut, Barracuda, Rockfish, and Bonito—a smaller relative of the Tuna that puts up a fun fight. Each of these species occupies a different niche: Halibut lurk on the bottom, Barracuda patrol the middle of the water column, Rockfish hang out on the reefs and rocks, and Bonito inhabit the topwater looking for small prey. Naturally, you'll use different techniques to target these species, including trolling, bottomfishing, trolling, and jigging to pick up bites! Depending on the season, weather, and your fishing preferences, Captain Nathan will make sure that you're equipped with the right gear and tackle to get the job done. Captain Nathan runs a beautiful 42' Hershine sportfisher, made super comfortable for your trip! With live wells, trolling gear, and more, she's the perfect vessel for a fishing adventure. Captain Nathan and his crew will provide all rods, reels, bait, tackle, ice, small snacks and water. All you need to bring is a California Fishing License for 16 and older, as well as sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and any food or drinks you might want. There's also a cooler provided on board to store your food and drinks! Get out there and enjoy yourself on the beautiful Pacific Coast! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 42’ Hershine

100% (1)
42 ft 1 - 12 People From $175 / person
See All Leopard Shark Trips in San Diego

Everything to Know About Booking a San Diego leopard shark fishing charter

What are the best leopard shark fishing charters in San Diego?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 4 leopard shark trips in San Diego, and the most popular trips in the area are Local Excursion - 42’ Hershine guided by Nathan, Half Day Inshore/Coastal guided by Scottie, and Local Excursion - 31’ Chris Craft guided by Nathan.

Our guides in San Diego are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2412 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and 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 leopard shark guides in San Diego? Check out our beginner and family friendly leopard shark guides in San Diego.

What types of leopard shark fishing charters are common in San Diego?

Nearshore fishing is the most popular for leopard shark in San Diego as well as inshore fishing.

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

How much do San Diego leopard shark fishing charters cost?

for leopard shark in San Diego prices can range anywhere from an affordable $975 to $2,100, but the average price for a half day trip for leopard shark in San Diego is $1,000. The average price for a full day trip for leopard shark in San Diego is $1,357.

What month is best for leopard shark fishing in San Diego?

The most popular season for leopard shark fishing in San Diego is spring, and most anglers book their trips 10 days in advance.

Do I need a San Diego fishing license for leopard shark and what are the bag limits for leopard shark 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 leopard shark fishing in San Diego all about?

In the coastal waters of San Diego, the leopard shark holds a special allure for anglers and marine enthusiasts alike. These distinctive sharks, named for their striking leopard-like markings, are a common sight along sandy bottoms, in shallow bays, and near rocky reefs. Known for their docile nature and non-aggressive behavior towards humans, leopard sharks are a popular target for catch-and-release fishing and recreational observation. Their abundance and accessibility make them a fascinating species to encounter while exploring the diverse marine habitats of San Diego.

Leopard shark fishing in San Diego offers anglers a unique and rewarding experience. These sharks can be targeted using a variety of techniques, including bottom fishing with natural baits such as squid, anchovies, or cut bait. Anglers often cast their baits near sandy flats, channels, or nearshore structures where leopard sharks are known to frequent. Patience and persistence are key when targeting leopard sharks, as they may require time to locate and entice into biting. Once hooked, leopard sharks provide a spirited fight, showcasing their strength and agility as they resist being brought to the boat or shore.

One of the most appealing aspects of leopard shark fishing in San Diego is the accessibility of these sharks to anglers of all skill levels. Whether fishing from shore, pier, or boat, anglers can find success in targeting leopard sharks throughout the year. Additionally, leopard sharks are a catch-and-release species, meaning anglers can enjoy the thrill of the fight without needing to harvest the sharks. With their unique markings, gentle demeanor, and exciting fishing opportunities, leopard sharks add to the vibrant marine ecosystem of San Diego and offer anglers an unforgettable experience on the water.

What are the most popular months to fish for leopard shark in San Diego?

In San Diego's coastal waters, the leopard shark seasons offer anglers distinct opportunities to encounter these fascinating creatures throughout the year. While leopard sharks can be found in the region's waters year-round, certain seasons present more favorable conditions for observing and fishing for them. Spring and summer typically mark the peak seasons for leopard shark sightings in San Diego, as warmer water temperatures draw these sharks closer to shore. During these months, leopard sharks can often be spotted in shallow bays, sandy flats, and nearshore areas, making them more accessible to anglers and marine enthusiasts.

As autumn approaches, leopard shark activity in San Diego may continue, albeit with some fluctuations in abundance and distribution. While water temperatures may start to cool, leopard sharks can still be found patrolling nearshore environments, particularly in areas with sandy bottoms and gentle currents. Anglers may need to adjust their tactics and locations to account for changing conditions, but with patience and persistence, successful leopard shark encounters are still possible well into the fall season in San Diego.

During the winter months, leopard shark sightings and fishing opportunities in San Diego may decrease as cooler water temperatures prompt these sharks to migrate to deeper or warmer waters. While leopard sharks may still be present in some areas, they may be less active and more challenging to locate. However, dedicated anglers and marine enthusiasts who venture out during the winter months can still be rewarded with memorable encounters with these captivating creatures. Whether it's the bustling activity of the summer peak or the quieter moments of observation in cooler seasons, San Diego offers a diverse and rewarding experience for those seeking to engage with leopard sharks.

What techniques are popular for catching leopard shark in San Diego?

Leopard shark fishing in San Diego offers anglers a variety of techniques to successfully target these captivating creatures. One popular method is bottom fishing with natural baits such as squid, anchovies, or cut bait. Anglers often target leopard sharks by casting their baits into sandy flats, channels, or nearshore areas where these sharks are known to frequent. Patience is key when bottom fishing for leopard sharks, as they may take time to locate and approach the bait. Using sensitive tackle and rigs can help anglers detect the subtle bites of leopard sharks and effectively hook into them when they strike.

Another effective technique for leopard shark fishing in San Diego is using artificial lures such as swimbaits or soft plastics. Anglers cast these lures into areas with sandy bottoms or gentle currents where leopard sharks are likely to be found. Retrieving the lure with a slow and steady motion can mimic the movements of prey, enticing leopard sharks to strike. This active fishing approach requires careful observation and precision casting to target specific areas where leopard sharks may be patrolling.

Fly fishing is also gaining popularity among leopard shark anglers in San Diego, offering a challenging and rewarding way to target these sharks. Anglers can use a variety of fly patterns such as shrimp imitations or baitfish imitations to mimic the natural prey of leopard sharks. Precision casting and accurate presentation are crucial when fly fishing for leopard sharks, as they often inhabit areas with sandy bottoms and gentle currents. With their gentle demeanor and spirited fights, leopard sharks offer fly anglers an exhilarating and memorable fishing experience in the coastal waters of San Diego.

What other species are popular in San Diego?

In addition to leopard sharks, San Diego's coastal waters offer a diverse array of fish species for anglers to target, ensuring an exciting and varied fishing experience. One popular catch is the California halibut, prized for its delicate texture and mild flavor. Halibut can be found along sandy bottoms, nearshore reefs, and in bay areas, where they lie in wait for prey to pass by. Anglers commonly use techniques such as drift fishing with live bait, jigging, or trolling to target halibut. Pursuing halibut provides anglers with thrilling battles and delicious rewards in the picturesque waters of San Diego.

Another sought-after species in San Diego is the yellowtail, renowned for its powerful fighting abilities and delectable taste. Yellowtail can be found in nearshore and offshore waters year-round, with peak seasons typically occurring in the spring and fall. Anglers often target yellowtail around kelp beds, rocky reefs, and offshore structures using techniques such as trolling, live bait fishing, or jigging. These sleek and powerful fish offer anglers an exhilarating offshore adventure and provide a memorable challenge for those seeking a thrilling fishing experience.

Additionally, San Diego's coastal waters are home to a variety of other prized species, including calico bass, barracuda, rockfish, lingcod, tuna, and various types of bass. Whether fishing from shore, pier, or boat, anglers can explore a range of habitats and depths in pursuit of their favorite catches. With its rich marine biodiversity and abundance of fishing opportunities, San Diego remains a top destination for anglers seeking memorable experiences on the water.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

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

    John H. with Shaun U. of San Diego, California

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time on our trip with Captain Nathan’s crew! Noah was our skipper, and Nick was the deckhand. They were both helpful and engaging, and always there to lend a hand. Would definitely recommend for both beginner and experienced anglers!

    Elena G. with Nathan B. of San Diego, California

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Shaun U. of San Diego, California

What's biting in San Diego?

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