Damn Good Yellowtail Amberjack Fishing Charters In San Diego

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

Choose a Date
4.89/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

You will only find quality, vetted guides on Captain Experiences, and we know them all on a first-name basis

Experts Available 24/7

Our US-based team is available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns

100% Weather Guarantee

We want to keep everyone safe, so in the case of inclement weather we'll work with you to reschedule at no cost

Recently Booked Yellowtail Amberjack Fishing Charters In San Diego, Ca

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in San Diego

Half Day Inshore/Coastal

100% (8)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in San Diego

Coronado Islands 10 Hr

100% (1)
31 ft 1 - 8 People From $2,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in San Diego

Inshore/Coastal (9 Hr.)

100% (8)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,395
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in San Diego

Coastal Banks Thriller

NEW
29 ft 1 - 4 People From $2,400
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in San Diego

12-hour Offshore Trip

NEW
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore Fishing in San Diego

4-12 Hour Trip – Inshore

100% (1)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $990

Top Types of Yellowtail Amberjack Trips in San Diego

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

All Target Species in San Diego

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Yellowtail Amberjack Fishing Charters In San Diego, Ca

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in San Diego

Island Charters - PASSPORT REQUIRED

100% (1)
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,925
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in San Diego

Coronados Half Day Trip

100% (2)
37 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,500
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in San Diego

Coronado Islands Fishing Trip

100% (4)
49 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in San Diego

Epic Offshore San Diego

100% (8)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $2,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in San Diego

Offshore San Diego

100% (8)
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $2,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in San Diego

Nearshore San Diego

NEW
29 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,200
See All Yellowtail Amberjack Trips in San Diego

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a San Diego yellowtail amberjack fishing charter

What are the best yellowtail amberjack fishing charters in San Diego?

What is yellowtail amberjack fishing in San Diego all about?

In the coastal waters of San Diego, the yellowtail amberjack, often simply referred to as yellowtail, is a prized game fish highly esteemed by anglers for its fighting prowess and delectable taste. Yellowtail are powerful swimmers known for their distinctive yellowish-green backs and silver-white bellies. These formidable fish inhabit both nearshore and offshore waters, with populations commonly found around kelp beds, rocky reefs, and underwater structures. Anglers in San Diego eagerly target yellowtail for their thrilling battles and the culinary delights they provide.

Yellowtail fishing in San Diego presents anglers with a range of techniques to entice these prized fish into biting. One common method is live bait fishing, where anglers use lively baitfish such as sardines, anchovies, or mackerel to attract yellowtail. Fishing around kelp beds or rocky outcroppings, anglers carefully present their baits at various depths to intercept passing schools of yellowtail. This technique requires patience and finesse, as yellowtail can be selective feeders, but the reward of hooking into one of these powerful fish is well worth the effort.

Another popular technique for targeting yellowtail in San Diego is trolling with lures or rigged baits. Anglers cover a wide area of water, searching for signs of feeding activity such as birds diving or surface disturbances. Once located, anglers deploy lures or rigged baits behind the boat, adjusting trolling speeds and depths to match the behavior of the yellowtail. This active fishing approach allows anglers to explore different areas and depths in search of actively feeding fish, providing an exciting and dynamic fishing experience amidst the stunning coastal scenery of San Diego.

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

In San Diego's coastal waters, the yellowtail amberjack, or simply yellowtail, presents anglers with exciting fishing opportunities throughout the year, although certain seasons offer particularly favorable conditions for targeting these prized game fish. Spring and summer are typically considered prime seasons for yellowtail fishing in San Diego. As water temperatures rise, yellowtail become more active and abundant, making them easier to locate around kelp beds, rocky reefs, and offshore structures. During these months, anglers can expect increased opportunities to encounter yellowtail and enjoy thrilling battles with these powerful swimmers.

Fall also offers excellent yellowtail fishing in San Diego as the weather begins to cool and yellowtail continue their feeding patterns. While not as prolific as the spring and summer seasons, fall still provides ample opportunities for anglers to target yellowtail in nearshore and offshore waters. Additionally, the fall season often sees yellowtail migrating closer to shore, making them more accessible to anglers fishing from boats or even from piers and jetties along the coast. With the right techniques and a bit of luck, anglers can still enjoy successful outings targeting yellowtail well into the fall season in San Diego.

While winter tends to see a decline in yellowtail activity compared to the warmer months, dedicated anglers can still find opportunities to catch them. Yellowtail may move to deeper waters or migrate to warmer areas during the winter months, requiring anglers to adjust their tactics and target areas accordingly. While yellowtail fishing in San Diego during the winter may not be as consistent as other seasons, patient anglers who are willing to brave the cooler temperatures can still be rewarded with memorable encounters with these prized game fish.

What techniques are popular for catching yellowtail amberjack in San Diego?

Yellowtail fishing in San Diego employs a variety of techniques tailored to the habits and preferences of these powerful and elusive fish. One effective method is live bait fishing, where anglers use lively baitfish such as sardines, anchovies, or mackerel to entice yellowtail. Fishing around kelp beds, rocky outcroppings, or offshore structures, anglers carefully present their baits at various depths to intercept passing schools of yellowtail. Patience and finesse are key in live bait fishing, as yellowtail can be selective feeders. Using light tackle and sensitive rigs helps anglers detect the subtle bites of yellowtail and increases their chances of hooking into these prized fish.

Trolling is another popular technique for yellowtail fishing in San Diego, particularly in offshore 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 yellowtail at their preferred depth, increasing their chances of success. This active fishing approach allows anglers to explore different areas and depths in search of actively feeding yellowtail, providing an exhilarating and dynamic fishing experience amidst the scenic coastal landscapes of San Diego.

Another effective technique for targeting yellowtail 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 injured baitfish, enticing strikes from hungry yellowtail. Jigging allows anglers to cover a wide area of water and explore different depths where yellowtail may be lurking. Varying the speed and motion of the jigging technique can help anglers effectively trigger strikes from yellowtail, especially when they are more active at certain times or depths. With their impressive size and strong fighting abilities, yellowtail provide anglers with an exciting and rewarding fishing experience amidst the stunning coastal landscapes of San Diego.

What other species are popular in San Diego?

In addition to yellowtail amberjack, 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, 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.

Another sought-after species in San Diego is the California yellowtail, prized for its strong fighting abilities and savory 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 provide anglers with thrilling battles and delicious rewards, making them a sought-after species among anglers in San Diego.

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

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great experience booking with Andrew. He was always so communicative and helpful about how the trip was looking and what options we had regarding timing, what to fish, and if the day would be good or not. We had just to reschedule from our original day but it all worked out great. Ended up going in November and crushed Bonito for a half day. Nearly every time we put lines in the water we got a bite on at least one of them. Really great trip had a time!

    Kendra N. | November 26, 2025

    Trip: San Diego Half Day Roundup

  • ★★★★★
    Great time, great fishing. Ezekiel was great, knew exactly what to and where to fish. We did “Not just go on a boat ride.” We caught a Yellow tail. Which was the icing on the cake.

    Marvin M. | August 4, 2025

    Trip: San Diego Nearshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Larry, Brice and Briggs were beyond great. Great charter, captain and fishing spots.

    Perry B. | July 11, 2025

    Trip: Half Day Charter

  • ★★★★★
    Travis was a first class guide, extremely attentive, helpful and most importantly, he put us on the fish! Had a great time with my Son and his two Marine Brothers for an unforgettable day of fishing.

    Dustin S. | June 20, 2025

    Trip: Half Day Inshore/Coastal

  • ★★★★★
    Went out fishing with Capt Andrew and his first mate Ace. The boat was clean and everything was set up and ready for us to enjoy the day. Unfortunately our day turned out with not any fish, but Capt Andrew and Ace worked very hard trying to find fish and searching all over. Saw a lot of aquatic life on our trip and enjoy the day out in the Pacific Ocean, zero fish but a 10 rating on effort, a very enjoyable day. We will be back to get that big one.

    Guy D. | August 9, 2024

    Trip: San Diego Offshore Roundup

Other Fishing Species in San Diego

Other Featured Cities

What's biting in San Diego?

View Yellowtail Amberjack 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 vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US 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 Yellowtail Amberjack Trips in San Diego