California Fishing Charters

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

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In California

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

6 Hr (AM Or PM)

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

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Long Beach

Lobster Hooping - 21' Bayliner

NEW
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $125 / person

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Newport Beach

Offshore Full Day

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $425 / person

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Francisco

San Francisco Crab Trip (Only Available November/December)

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $200 / person

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Hume

Sequoia National Forest Fly Fishing

NEW
1 - 3 People From $117 / person
Damn Good

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 42’ Hershine

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

Most Popular Types of Trips in California

“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 Fishing Charters In California

The inshore water of the San Diego bay is a saltwater angler's paradise. Get out there and discover these diverse fishing grounds with Captain Kevin, and put your fishing skills to the test! On this trip, you'll be able to target a diversity of inshore and nearshore species, making this a great trip for people who want to do it all! You'll drift and bottomfish for Pacific Barracuda, White Seabass, Halibut, and more. 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 Kevin will make sure that you're equipped with the right gear and tackle to get the job done. You'll be out there aboard Kevin's 36' Grand Banks center console. With twin Ford engines sporting a combined 480 horsepower, you'll get out there fast and spend more time fishing! 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

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Bay Half Day Trip

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

On this trip, you'll explore the offshore waters of the Pacific Ocean, hunting for monster pelagic species including Yellowfin Tuna, Striped Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and more! Whether you'd like to stay in US waters or explore down toward Mexico or Catalina Island, Captain Nathan and his crew will show you a great time and get you hooked up on some amazing fish. The pelagic species you'll be targeting on this expedition are all big-time Pacific sportfish that offer hard fights and amazing eating to boot! To catch 'em up, you'll primarily be trolling and drifting, targeting different parts of the water column by adjusting your speed and the gear you put put there. 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 that's fully equipped for amazing fishing. With a full cabin, 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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Long Run Offshore - 42' Hershine

NEW
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $850 / person

The cold, rich Pacific currents that flow along California's coast make the San Francisco Bay an angler's paradise. The inshore, nearshore, and offshore water here supports a superb marine ecosystem with a huge diversity of top-notch sport and game species, all of which you can go after with Captain Craig. On this trip, Captain Craig will get you out there to target King Salmon, Halibut, Leopard Sharks, Lingcod, Rockfish, Striped Bass, and Sturgeon! This is a unique mix of species that will give you a ton of different challenges and things to enjoy! Because there are so many species to target, you'll mix it up with several different fishing techniques including bottomfishing, trolling, drifting, jigging, and more. Depending on the season, weather, and your fishing preferences, Captain Craig will make sure that you're equipped with the right gear and tackle to get the job done. You'll be out there aboard his 33' Crown Custom sportfisher. Originally built in 1979, she's a purpose-built vessel that can handle anything the Bay can throw at you. She runs a 250-HP Scania engine and sports bait wells, bathroom, and a full suite of electronics to enhance your fishing. With all the rods, reels, bait, and tackle provided, you just need to bring sunscreen and your California Fishing Licenses. Get out there and hook 'em! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Francisco

San Francisco Bay Premier Trip

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $190 / 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

If you've been on the hunt for world-class fly fishing right here in California, this trip with Captain Mark was meant for you! You'll be fishing the San Joaquin River for Largemouth and Striped Bass all of which love to whack flies on topwater! With a little skill, you can expect big surface "takes" and blow-ups from all three species, whether you're an experienced fly fisherman or still a rookie. The summer and fall months offer the best of both worlds when it comes to fishing the San Joaquin Valley, with excellent weather and river conditions, alongside terrific fishing. Fishing during these seasons is also a great way to expand your fly-fishing skillset beyond just Trout; you can have a lot of success targeting Bass and Stripers on the fly as well. Captain Mark has fished this area for decades, and he's the resident expert when it comes to the best spots, tackle, and techniques. On this trip you'll; be fishing from the deck of his 17' Pro-Line skiff, which is a quick, manueverable boat that's ideal for fishing the river. Fishing from a boat gives you greater access to the best holes and hotspots, and Mark will be there to offer technique tips and pointers. His full-day trips include lunch, so all you need to bring is your sun protection, California Fishing License, and personal gear. Of course, if you don't have your own equipment he's happy to provide it for you. Get out there and see what the San Joaquin has to offer! Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Stockton

California Delta Freshwater Trip

NEW
17 ft 1 - 3 People From $158 / 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. 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
See All Trips in California

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in California

What are the best fishing charters in California?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 58 trips in California, and the most popular trips in the area are 6 hr (AM or PM) guided by Shaun, Lobster Hooping - 21' Bayliner guided by Kevin, and Offshore Full Day guided by Matt.

Our guides in California are rated a 4.75 out of 5 based on 2398 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.

The most popular cities to book a charter in California are San Diego, Newport Beach and Richmond.

Looking for kid friendly charters in California? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in California.

What types of fishing charters are common in California?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular in California as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and river fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in California are: 1. rockfish, 2. yellowtail amberjack, 3. halibut, and 4. barracuda.

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

How much do California fishing charters cost?

in California prices can range anywhere from an affordable $350 to $3,000 and up, but the average price for a half day trip in California is $794. The average price for a full day trip in California is $1,773.

What month is best for fishing in California?

The most popular season for fishing in California is fall, and most anglers book their trips 41 days in advance.

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

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

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

Top Types of Fishing in California

How are fishing conditions in California?

View California Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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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 Trips in California