Light Tackle Fishing Charters In San Diego

Easily find a San Diego fishing guide that fits your needs. Confidently book your next day on the water.

5/5 Average Rating


Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Light Tackle Fishing Charters Near San Diego, Ca

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

6 Hr (AM Or PM)

100% (2)
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $244 / person

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Bay Half Day Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $217 / person
Damn Good

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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

3/4 Day - Offshore Banks (9 Hr.)

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $499 / person
Damn Good

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Full Day Local Offshore

NEW
31 ft 1 - 5 People From $400 / person

Most Popular Types of Light Tackle Fishing 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.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Choose your trip by skill level

More Light Tackle Fishing Charters Near San Diego, Ca

After leaving the dock in San Diego, you'll cruise offshore to the Coronado Islands, a barren group of rocky outcrops that are home to millions of migratory birds and tons of sea life. This area is one of the most productive fisheries in California, attracting pelagic predators such as Tuna as well as nearshore species such as Barracuda, Yellowtail Amberjack, Rockfish, and more. Captain Andrew is en expert when it comes to hooking fish out here, so you can cross your fingers for the trip of a lifetime! Because there are so many species to target, you'll mix it up with several different fishing techniques. That could include trolling for Barracuda and Mahi, which love fast-moving baits and lures, and bottomfishing for Rockfish and Amberjack, which hang out near undersea structure, and even letting out some lines to hit surface-feeding Bluefin. Captain Andrew will take everything into account, from the season to the weather to your preferences, and do whatever he can to get you on the fish. Everything you need for a great trip is provided for you. Just remember to wear proper clothing and bring some sun protection, a cooler with some snacks and drinks, and a California Fishing License. You'll also need your passport, because this trip will take you into Mexican waters. Get out there and have a blast! You'll be out there aboard Andrew's 28' Boston Whaler center console. She's a sweet boat for deep-sea fishing, and runs twin Yamaha engines with a combined 50o horsepower. Everything you need for an epic day will be provided; all you need to bring is sun protection, your California Fishing Licenses, and a smile. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Coronado Islands Expedition

NEW
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $474 / person

After leaving the dock in San Diego, you'll cruise offshore to the Coronado Islands, a barren group of rocky outcrops that are home to millions of migratory birds and tons of sea life. You'll explore the waters around the Coronado Islands, while targeting Yellowtail and a variety of Rockfish, Lingcod, Whitefish, and Sculpin. Add the scenic beauty of the islands and the likelihood of seeing dolphins, seals, and whales, and you have a great adventure on this Coronados trip! Everything you need for a great trip is provided for you. Just remember to wear proper clothing and bring some sun protection, a cooler with some snacks and drinks. You'll also need your passport, because this trip will take you into Mexican waters. You'll be out there aboard Captain Ray's 37' Strike walk around Sportfisher. She's a purpose-built fishing machine, and runs twin engines with a combined 960 horsepower. Everything you need as it pertains to fishing will be provided; Mexican Fishing licenses and visas are an additional cost but we will help get those for you. The islands are a beautiful place to fish. Let's go see whats out there! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Coronados Half Day Trip

NEW
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $200 / 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 luxurious 42' sportfisher, equipped with everything you need for a great fishing trip! 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

Full Day Local Offshore - 42’ Hershine

NEW
42 ft 1 - 12 People From $252 / person

From the inshore bays to the deep offshore water, San Diego is a saltwater angler's paradise. Get out there and discover these diverse fishing grounds with Captain Andrew, and put your fishing skills to the test! On this trip, you'll be able to target a diversity of nearshore and offshore species, making this a great trip for people who want to do it all! Nearshore, you'll drift and bottomfish for Sheephead, Lingcod, Halibut, Calico Bass, and Rockfish. Further out, You'll be able to troll for Bluefin—the premier Pacific sportfish—as well as Mahi Mahi and Yellowtail Amberjack, which are a true California classic. Because there are so many species to target, you'll mix it up with several different fishing techniques. Depending on the season, weather, and your fishing preferences, Captain Andrew will make sure that you're equipped with the right gear and tackle to get the job done. You'll be out there aboard Andrew's 28' Boston Whaler center console. She's a sweet boat for deep-sea fishing, and runs twin Yamaha engines with a combined 50o horsepower. Everything you need for an epic day will be provided; all you need to bring is sun protection, your California Fishing Licenses, and a smile. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego 3/4 Day Roundup

NEW
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $344 / person

This full-day trip is designed to make the most of the world-renowned offshore fishing off the coast of San Diego. This fisherman's paradise is fed by cold, rich water from deep in the Pacific, making this an extremely productive fishery from the inshore water all the way to deep offshore. On this trip, Captain Ian will take you offshore where you can target pelagic species such as Yellowtail Amberjack, Mahi Mahi, and Yellowfin Tuna. The season will determine the fish you target, but all of these fish are amazing fighters and some of the best-eating fish anywhere in the ocean. On this trip, you'll primarily be trolling, using multiple baits and lures to attract these fast, aggressive fish. You will be using top-of-the-line gear, artificial lures, and hand-rigged bait. Captain Ian guides his trips aboard a 38' Phoenix sportfisher equipped with twin 420HP Caterpillar engines that provide a ton of speed to get you out there quick. This vessel is equipped with outriggers for trolling, flybridge, and a spacious cabin with bunks, a kitchenette, and more. She's ready to get you and your crew out on the offshore trip of a lifetime! All the rods, reels, bait, tackle, and gear is included. Just bring your California fishing license, sun protection, and polarized sunglasses and you'll be set to go! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Close Offshore All Ages Trip

NEW
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $525 / person
Damn Good

Embark on an unforgettable 12-hour offshore fishing expedition with the seasoned expertise of Captain Scottie, boasting a formidable nine-year tenure navigating the waters of San Diego. Aboard his meticulously maintained 23ft Parker Pilothouse vessel, adventurers are invited to partake in a meticulously planned journey that delves into the prolific marine ecosystems of the region. As the sun rises over the Pacific horizon, anglers will find themselves immersed in a meticulously curated experience designed to yield bountiful catches of the most sought-after species. With a laser focus on precision and success, Captain Scottie's adept guidance ensures that each participant is equipped with the essential techniques and tools to pursue the grand challenge of Bluefin Tuna, the vibrant allure of Mahi Mahi, the lightning-fast thrill of Yellowfin Tuna, and the powerful engagement of Yellowtail Amberjack. Captain Scottie's mastery of the oceanic realm, coupled with his passion for conservation and responsible fishing practices, results in a truly remarkable excursion. From the well-appointed confines of the 23ft Parker Pilothouse, participants can expect an expedition characterized by professionalism, expertise, and a deep respect for the marine environment. Whether a novice or seasoned angler, this 12-hour offshore voyage promises to etch indelible memories and prized catches into the annals of your fishing repertoire. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Full Day Offshore Banks (12 Hr)

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $574 / person
See All Light Tackle Fishing Trips in San Diego

Everything to Know About Booking a San Diego light tackle fishing charter

What are the best light tackle fishing charters in San Diego?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 22 light tackle fishing trips in San Diego, and the most popular trips in the area are 6 hr (AM or PM) guided by Shaun, San Diego Bay Half Day Trip guided by Kevin, and Local Excursion - 42’ Hershine guided by Nathan.

Our guides in San Diego are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2417 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 light tackle fishing guides in San Diego? Check out our beginner and family friendly light tackle fishing guides in San Diego.

What types of light tackle fishing charters are common in San Diego?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular for light tackle fishing in San Diego as well as nearshore fishing and inshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species for light tackle fishing in San Diego are: 1. rockfish, 2. yellowtail amberjack, 3. halibut, and 4. mahi mahi.

How much do San Diego light tackle fishing charters cost?

for light tackle fishing in San Diego prices can range anywhere from an affordable $850 to $3,000 and up, but the average price for a half day trip for light tackle fishing in San Diego is $1,130. The average price for a full day trip for light tackle fishing in San Diego is $1,921.

What month is best for on a light tackle fishing charter in San Diego?

The most popular season to go on a light tackle fishing charter in San Diego is summer, and most anglers book their trips 45 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.

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

How are fishing conditions in San Diego?

View San Diego Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Light Tackle Fishing Trips in San Diego