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Damn Good San Diego Bay Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability on San Diego Bay fishing trips. Online booking | Guides from $1,558

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters Near San Diego Bay

Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day

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

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Offshore - 42’ Hershine

100% (1)
42 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,610
Fishing in San Diego

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Full Day Local Offshore

100% (1)
31 ft 1 - 5 People From $2,000

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Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Other Trips in San Diego Bay

Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for Full Day Local Offshore 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 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

Full Day Local Offshore

100% (1)
31 ft 1 - 5 People From $2,000
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 Half Day in San Diego

The half day trips are equally great for the beginner angler as well as for those more experienced. Don't waste your weekend. Get out on the water and make the most of southern California's rich inshore waters. Out of Mission Bay and up along to La Jolla, you'll hit the shallow saltwater fishing grounds as you seek to fill the boat with some native fish. Go after Calicos, Rockfish, Halibut, Yellowtail, White Seabass, and more, as you practice your skills and head home with a tasty treat. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day

NEW
1 - 6 People From $1,350

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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in San Diego Bay

What are the best fishing charters in San Diego Bay?

The best fishing charters in San Diego Bay are:

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 3 trips in San Diego Bay, and the most popular trips in the area are Half Day guided by Frank, Local Offshore - 42’ Hershine guided by Nathan, and Full Day Local Offshore guided by Nathan.

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 charters / fishing lessons in San Diego Bay? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in San Diego Bay.

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

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in San Diego Bay as well as nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in San Diego Bay are: 1. rockfish, 2. barracuda, 3. lingcod, 4. halibut, and 5. bluefin tuna.

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

How much do San Diego Bay fishing charters cost?

Prices in San Diego Bay can range anywhere from about $1,558 to $2,832, but the average price for a full day trip in San Diego Bay is $2,173.

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 fishing in San Diego Bay?

The most popular season for fishing in San Diego Bay is summer, and most anglers book their trips 28 days in advance.

Do I need a San Diego Bay fishing license and what are the bag limits in San Diego Bay?

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

What is fishing in San Diego Bay all about?

Fishing in San Diego Bay, nestled along the picturesque coastline of Southern California, offers anglers a diverse and exciting fishing experience in a bustling urban setting. The bay's sheltered waters provide ideal conditions for a variety of saltwater species, making it a popular destination for both recreational and commercial fishing. From the convenience of public fishing piers, private boats, or guided charters, anglers can explore the bay's rich marine ecosystem and enjoy exceptional fishing opportunities year-round.

One of the main attractions of fishing in San Diego Bay is the chance to target a variety of inshore species, including spotted bay bass, sand bass, halibut, yellowfin croaker, and bat rays. Anglers can fish from the shoreline, casting into the bay's shallow waters, or venture out onto the water aboard kayaks, paddleboards, or small skiffs to explore the bay's hidden coves and channels. With its calm waters and abundant fish populations, San Diego Bay provides anglers of all skill levels with the opportunity to hook into some impressive catches against the backdrop of the city's skyline and scenic waterfront.

In addition to inshore fishing, San Diego Bay also offers opportunities for nearshore and offshore angling adventures. Anglers can venture out from the bay into deeper waters to target larger pelagic species such as yellowtail, bonito, barracuda, and even sharks. Whether trolling along the coast, drifting over productive fishing grounds, or bottom fishing around offshore reefs and wrecks, anglers have the chance to reel in some exciting catches while enjoying the beauty and diversity of San Diego Bay and its surrounding coastal waters.

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

Fishing in San Diego Bay, located along the southwestern coast of California, offers anglers a year-round opportunity to reel in a variety of species. Each season brings its own unique conditions and target species, ensuring that anglers can enjoy productive fishing regardless of the time of year. Spring marks the start of prime fishing season in San Diego Bay. As temperatures rise and marine life becomes more active, anglers can expect to encounter species such as spotted bay bass, halibut, and yellowtail in the bay's shallow waters. This season also sees the arrival of migratory species like bonito and barracuda, providing exciting opportunities for anglers looking to test their skills against these fast-swimming gamefish.

Summer brings warmer temperatures and increased recreational activity to San Diego Bay, but fishing remains productive for those willing to venture out onto the water. Inshore species like calico bass, sand bass, and croaker remain abundant throughout the summer months, with anglers finding success near structure, kelp beds, and drop-offs. Offshore, species like tuna, dorado, and yellowtail become more prevalent, offering exciting opportunities for anglers to target larger gamefish. The calm seas and clear waters of summer make for ideal fishing conditions, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit San Diego Bay.

Fall offers some of the best fishing of the year in San Diego Bay as temperatures begin to cool and fish become more active. This season is particularly known for its excellent fishing for spotted bay bass, which move into shallower waters to feed before the winter months. Halibut and yellowtail also become more active in the bay during the fall, providing anglers with additional opportunities for a successful day on the water. Whether fishing from shore, wading in the shallows, or exploring the bay by boat, San Diego Bay offers a diverse range of fishing experiences for anglers of all interests and skill levels.

What types of fishing are popular in San Diego Bay?

Fishing in San Diego Bay, located along the scenic coastline of Southern California, offers anglers a diverse array of fishing opportunities suited to various preferences and skill levels. One prevalent type of fishing in the bay is inshore angling, which provides anglers with the chance to target a variety of saltwater species within the bay's protected waters. Common catches include spotted bay bass, sand bass, halibut, yellowfin croaker, and bat rays. Anglers can cast from public fishing piers, shoreline spots, or small boats, enjoying the calm waters and picturesque surroundings while reeling in their catches.

Nearshore and offshore fishing are also popular pursuits in San Diego Bay, offering anglers the opportunity to venture beyond the bay's confines in search of larger pelagic species. Nearshore fishing trips may target species such as yellowtail, bonito, barracuda, and even sharks, which can be found patrolling the coastal waters. Anglers may troll along the coastlines, drift over productive fishing grounds, or anchor near underwater structures to target these species. For those seeking even bigger thrills, offshore fishing expeditions can take anglers further out to sea, where they may encounter game fish such as tuna, dorado, marlin, and sailfish.

Furthermore, San Diego Bay is an excellent destination for kayak fishing enthusiasts, offering access to secluded coves, shallow flats, and hidden channels that are inaccessible to larger vessels. Kayakers can explore the bay's diverse habitats, casting into shallow waters or drifting along the edges of submerged structures in search of their target species. Whether pursuing inshore favorites or venturing out into deeper waters, San Diego Bay provides anglers with a wealth of fishing opportunities against the backdrop of the city's skyline and stunning coastal landscapes.

What species are popular in San Diego Bay?

San Diego Bay, nestled along the southwestern coast of California, is renowned for its rich diversity of fish species, making it a prime destination for anglers of all levels. One of the most sought-after catches in the bay is the spotted bay bass. These feisty and hard-fighting fish are abundant in the shallow waters, rocky areas, and around structure throughout San Diego Bay. Anglers can target spotted bay bass using a variety of baits and lures, including live bait such as anchovies or shrimp, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits and jerkbaits. Spotted bay bass are known for their aggressive strikes and strong fights, providing anglers with an exhilarating fishing experience.

Halibut are another prized species found in the waters of San Diego Bay. These flatfish are commonly found in sandy areas, channels, and along drop-offs, where they lie in wait to ambush their prey. Anglers can target halibut using live bait such as anchovies or smelt, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits and soft plastics. Halibut are known for their subtle bites and impressive size, making them a favorite among anglers seeking a challenging and rewarding catch.

In addition to spotted bay bass and halibut, San Diego Bay offers excellent opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of other species, including sand bass, calico bass, and croaker. Sand bass and calico bass can be found near structure, kelp beds, and drop-offs, where they feed on baitfish and crustaceans. Croaker are commonly found near sandy bottoms and along shorelines, where they feed on small fish and invertebrates. Whether fishing from shore, wading in the shallows, or exploring the bay by boat, anglers visiting San Diego Bay are sure to enjoy a memorable and rewarding fishing experience.

Does San Diego Bay have good fishing?

San Diego Bay, nestled along California's southern coast, offers anglers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience in a picturesque urban setting. The bay's expansive waters provide habitat for a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for both recreational and sport fishing. Common catches in San Diego Bay include spotted bay bass, halibut, sand bass, yellowtail, and various species of rays and sharks. The bay's proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its intricate network of channels, docks, and shallow flats offer anglers a range of fishing opportunities year-round.

Fishing conditions in San Diego Bay are generally favorable throughout the year, with different seasons bringing unique fishing opportunities. Spring and summer are ideal for targeting spotted bay bass and halibut, as these species become more active in the warmer waters. Anglers often find success using live bait or artificial lures near structure-rich areas such as piers, jetties, and rocky shorelines. Fall and winter months see an increase in catches of yellowtail and sand bass, particularly during periods of favorable tidal movements and water temperatures.

In addition to its excellent fishing, San Diego Bay provides anglers with stunning waterfront views and a vibrant coastal atmosphere. The bay is surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the San Diego skyline, Coronado Bridge, and Naval Base San Diego, offering a scenic backdrop for fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can enjoy convenient access to marinas, fishing charters, and public fishing piers, making it easy to embark on a fishing excursion or leisurely cast a line from shore. Whether seeking a day of productive fishing or simply enjoying the beauty of San Diego's waterfront, San Diego Bay remains a top destination for anglers of all levels.

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