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Damn Good Rockfish Fishing Charters In San Diego

Check real-time availability on San Diego rockfish fishing trips. Online booking | 5 / 5 stars | Guides from $975

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Recently Booked Rockfish Fishing Charters Near San Diego, Ca

Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day

NEW
1 - 6 People From $1,350
Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Coronado Islands Adventure

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29 ft 1 - 4 People From $2,000
Fishing in San Diego

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Coronados Half Day Trip

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37 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in San Diego

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 31’ Chris Craft

100% (1)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in San Diego

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Nearshore San Diego

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29 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,200
Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego 3/4 Day Roundup

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28 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,375

Most Popular Types of Rockfish Trips in San Diego

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More Rockfish Fishing Charters Near San Diego, Ca

Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for San Diego Coastal Waters in San Diego

Owner Johnny and Captain Cassey specialize in private 4 pack charters aboard their Defiance 220 Admiral. Beyond helping you hook up ons of fish, they strive to give the best possible service they can while you and your group are out on the water. Located in beautiful San Diego California, their trips are perfect for all experience levels, whether your a new or experienced angler, or just looking for some family fun! On this inshore trip, you'll target the productive fishing grounds close to the dock. You'll be using live bait, bottomrigs, and many other special techniques to catch Rockfish (also known as Rockcod), Halibut, Lingcod, Yellowtail, Sheephead, Corbina, and much more! Captain Cassey's Defiance 220 Admiral is a pilothouse boat that comes equipped with top-of-the-line navigation and the best fishing electronics available! With safety being a top priority, she also has a radar system to help assist when visibility is difficult. Built-in live wells for bait, and plenty of fish boxes help store your keepers. This vessel can do up to 30 knots fully loaded, which cuts time getting out to the fishing grounds! You will need to bring your California State Fishing license with you to meet state regulations, but otherwise, Captain Cassey will provide everything else from rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice, and water, to laughs, fishing knowledge, and of course, loads of fun! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Coastal Waters

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22 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for San Diego Half Day Roundup in San Diego

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 species, making this a great trip for people who want to do it all! You'll drift and bottomfish for Pacific Barracuda, Calico Bass, Rockfish, and Yellowtail Amberjack. These fish are fun for anglers of all levels, and are excellent eating as well! 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

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Half Day Roundup

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28 ft 1 - 5 People From $925
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for San Diego Fishing Fun in San Diego

San Diego sportfishing is REEL HOT right now! As the premier San Diego private fishing charter, Captain Mark and his team are committed to helping you create some amazing fishing memories. Whether you are brand new to fishing and looking to catch your first fish, have kids fishing for their fish time, or are a seasoned angler chasing a trophy, he will work tirelessly to get you on the fish. The wide variety of fish in San Diego’s beautiful ocean waters is what makes it home to some of the best deep-sea fishing in the country. On this half-day adventure you'll be targeting the Rockfish, Sea Bass, California Yellowtail, and California Halibut that call these waters home! He offers a wide variety of fishing trips to suit your adventure needs including: Half Day, 3/4 Day, and Full Day options, but his MOST POPULAR trip is this local San Diego Half Day Fishing trip. For Captain Mark and his clients, there’s really nothing better than the sound of the reel zinging with a fish on the line, and seeing the excitement of everyone on board when they bring up their fish! Mark and his team are committed to ensuring you have a safe and memorable day out on the water. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Fishing Fun

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1 - 4 People From $1,050
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for Local Offshore - 42’ Hershine in San Diego

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

Local Offshore - 42’ Hershine

100% (1)
42 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,610
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for Coastal Waters Fun! in San Diego

Join Captain Leng on an unforgettable 8-hour deep sea fishing expedition in the pristine waters of San Diego, CA. Setting sail aboard his 29-foot Grady White vessel, you'll embark on an exhilarating adventure targeting a diverse array of species, including Yellowfin Tuna, Yellowtail Amberjack, Bonita, Skipjack Tuna, and Mahi Mahi. San Diego Fishing Trips don't get more thrilling than this! Captain Leng brings his wealth of experience and local knowledge to ensure a successful and rewarding fishing experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, he'll provide expert guidance and top-tier equipment to help you reel in your dream catch. Book your adventure today with Captain Leng for an epic deep sea fishing experience that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the rich marine life of San Diego's waters while enjoying the thrill of the hunt. Join us for an unforgettable day on the open sea! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Coastal Waters Fun!

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29 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,600
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for Inshore/Coastal (9 hr.) in San Diego

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.)

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,395
See All Rockfish Trips in San Diego

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a San Diego rockfish fishing charter

What are the best rockfish fishing charters in San Diego?

Why should I book a rockfish fishing charter in San Diego with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 18 rockfish trips in San Diego, and the most popular trips in the area are Half Day guided by Frank, San Diego 3/4 Day Roundup guided by Andrew, and Half Day Inshore/Coastal guided by Scottie.

Our guides in San Diego are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3287 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 rockfish guides / fishing lessons in San Diego? Check out our beginner and family friendly rockfish guides in San Diego.

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

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for rockfish in San Diego as well as nearshore fishing and inshore fishing.

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

How much do San Diego rockfish fishing charters cost?

Prices for rockfish in San Diego can range anywhere from about $975 to $2,339, but the average price for a half day trip for rockfish in San Diego is $1,088. The average price for a full day trip for rockfish in San Diego is $1,627.

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 rockfish fishing in San Diego?

The most popular season for rockfish fishing in San Diego is summer, and most anglers book their trips 46 days in advance.

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

Rockfish are a prevalent and sought-after species among anglers in San Diego's coastal waters, known for their delicious taste and abundance in rocky habitats. These fish, characterized by their vibrant colors and spiny fins, inhabit rocky reefs, underwater structures, and deep-water canyons along the coast. Rockfish offer anglers a rewarding fishing experience, as they can be targeted year-round and provide a reliable source of action and excitement. Their versatility in preparation, from grilling to frying, makes them a popular catch for both recreational and commercial fishermen in the region.

Fishing for rockfish in San Diego employs a variety of techniques tailored to the rugged habitats where they reside. One common method is bottom fishing with baited rigs, where anglers drop weighted lines with natural baits such as squid, anchovies, or shrimp to the rocky seabed. Rockfish are known to congregate in large numbers around underwater structures, where they feed on small fish and crustaceans, making these areas prime spots for anglers to target them. Patience and persistence are key when bottom fishing for rockfish, as anglers may need to adjust their tactics and bait presentations to entice bites.

Another effective technique for rockfish fishing in San Diego is jigging with heavy metal lures or jigs. Anglers drop these lures to the bottom and jig them upwards in a rhythmic motion to mimic the movements of prey, attracting the attention of hungry rockfish. Jigging allows anglers to cover a wide area of water and explore different depths where rockfish may be lurking. With their strong fighting abilities and delectable flesh, rockfish provide anglers with an exciting and rewarding fishing experience amidst the scenic coastal landscapes of San Diego.

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

In San Diego, rockfish fishing seasons offer anglers various opportunities throughout the year to target these prized fish. While rockfish can be found in the region's waters year-round, certain seasons present more favorable conditions for successful angling. Spring and summer typically mark the peak seasons for rockfish fishing in San Diego, as warmer water temperatures trigger increased activity and feeding behavior among these bottom-dwelling species. During these months, rockfish are often more abundant and actively foraging around rocky reefs, underwater structures, and deep-water canyons along the coast.

As autumn approaches, rockfish activity in San Diego may continue, albeit with some fluctuations in abundance and distribution. While water temperatures may start to cool, rockfish can still be found congregating around rocky habitats and underwater structures, particularly in deeper waters. Anglers may need to adjust their tactics and target areas to account for changing conditions, but with persistence and adaptability, successful rockfish outings are still possible well into the fall season in San Diego.

During the winter months, rockfish fishing in San Diego tends to slow down as cooler water temperatures prompt these fish to move to deeper or warmer waters. While rockfish may still be present in some areas, they may be less active and more challenging to locate. However, dedicated anglers who venture out during the winter months can still be rewarded with memorable catches. Whether it's the bustling activity of the spring and summer peaks or the quieter moments of observation in cooler seasons, San Diego offers a diverse and rewarding experience for those seeking to engage with rockfish.

What techniques are popular for catching rockfish in San Diego?

Rockfish fishing in San Diego employs a variety of techniques tailored to the rugged habitats where these fish reside. One common and effective method is bottom fishing with baited rigs. Anglers use weighted lines to drop natural baits such as squid, anchovies, or shrimp to the rocky seabed where rockfish congregate. Patience and persistence are key when bottom fishing for rockfish, as anglers may need to adjust their tactics and bait presentations to entice bites. Additionally, using sensitive tackle and rigs helps anglers detect the subtle bites of rockfish and increase their chances of hooking into these prized fish.

Another popular technique for rockfish fishing in San Diego is jigging with heavy metal lures or jigs. Anglers drop these lures to the bottom and jig them upwards in a rhythmic motion to mimic the movements of prey, attracting the attention of hungry rockfish. Jigging allows anglers to cover a wide area of water and explore different depths where rockfish may be lurking. It's essential to vary the speed and depth of the jigging motion to entice rockfish effectively, as they may be more active at certain times or depths.

Trolling is also a productive method for targeting rockfish in San Diego, particularly in deeper waters or along underwater drop-offs. Anglers use downriggers or planer boards to present lures or rigged baits at varying depths while covering a large area of water. Adjusting trolling speeds and depths helps anglers target rockfish at their preferred depth, increasing their chances of success. Whether employing bottom fishing, jigging, or trolling, rockfish fishing in San Diego offers anglers a thrilling and rewarding experience amidst the region's scenic coastal landscapes.

What other species are popular in San Diego?

In addition to rockfish, San Diego's coastal waters offer a plethora of other fish species for anglers to target, ensuring a diverse and exciting fishing experience. One popular catch is the yellowtail, prized for its strong 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.

Another sought-after species in San Diego is the California halibut, renowned for its delicate texture and mild flavor. Halibut can be found along sandy bottoms and nearshore structures, 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. While they can be caught year-round, peak seasons for halibut fishing in San Diego typically occur during the spring and summer months when these fish migrate closer to shore to spawn. Pursuing halibut offers anglers a rewarding and delicious fishing experience in the picturesque waters of San Diego.

Additionally, San Diego's coastal waters are home to a variety of other prized species, including calico bass, barracuda, yellowfin tuna, dorado, marlin, swordfish, rockfish, lingcod, 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?

View Rockfish Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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See All Rockfish Trips in San Diego