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California Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability on 59 California fishing trips. Online booking | 4.75 / 5 stars | Guides from $490

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In California

Fishing in San Diego

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

6 Hr (AM Or PM)

100% (2)
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in Hume

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Hume

Sequoia National Forest Fly Fishing

NEW
1 - 3 People From $350
Fishing in Long Beach

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Long Beach

Lobster Hooping - 21' Bayliner

NEW
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
Fishing in Newport Beach

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Newport Beach

Offshore Full Day

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,700
Fishing in San Diego

Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Local Excursion - 42’ Hershine

100% (1)
42 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,050
Fishing in San Diego

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Bay Half Day Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300

Top Cities in California

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

Deep Sea Fishing Charters In California

Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

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

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,995
Fishing in Dana Point

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Dana Point

Dana Point Extended Offshore Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 4 People From $5,800
Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Coronado Islands Expedition

NEW
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,895
Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego 3/4 Day Roundup

NEW
28 ft 1 - 5 People From $1,375
Fishing in Dana Point

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Dana Point

Dana Point 24-Hour Adventure

NEW
36 ft 1 - 4 People From $4,000
Fishing in San Diego

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in San Diego

Full Day Offshore Banks (12 Hr)

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $2,295

Nearshore Fishing Charters In California

Fishing in San Diego

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

6 Hr (AM Or PM)

100% (2)
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in Long Beach

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Long Beach

Long Beach Nearshore Adventure

NEW
21 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in San Diego

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day Inshore/Coastal

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in Dana Point

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Dana Point

Dana Point Half Day Excursion

NEW
36 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,500
Fishing in Dana Point

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Dana Point

Dana Point 24-Hour Adventure

NEW
36 ft 1 - 4 People From $4,000
Fishing in San Diego

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Inshore/Coastal (9 Hr.)

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,395

Inshore Fishing Charters In California

Fishing in San Diego

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Half Day Inshore/Coastal

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in San Diego

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

6 Hr (AM Or PM)

100% (2)
30 ft 1 - 4 People From $975
Fishing in Los Angeles

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Los Angeles

LA Inshore/Nearshore Classic

NEW
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,150
Fishing in San Diego

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

Inshore/Coastal (9 Hr.)

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,395
Fishing in San Diego

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Coastal Waters

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $850
Fishing in San Diego

Inshore Fishing Charter in San Diego

San Diego Bay Half Day Trip

NEW
36 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300

More Fishing Charters In California

Fishing in Newport Beach
Fishing in Newport Beach
Fishing in Newport Beach
trip description for San Clemente Island Full Day in Newport Beach

On this full-day fishing adventure, you'll head offshore towards the San Clemente Islands, a narrow outcrop that's home to millions of migratory birds and tons of sea life. The fishery here is one of the most productive in California, attracting pelagic predators such as Tuna as well as nearshore species such as Barracuda, Yellowtail Amberjack, Rockfish, and more. Cold currents from the Pacific run right up against the cliffs here, creating a perfect environment for major sportfish. On this trip, Captain Matt will take you offshore where you can target pelagic species such as Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna, White Seabass, and Yellowtail. 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. When a big Bluefin hits that hook, you'll know it! Tuna are some of the hardest-fighting fish in the sea, and they'll test your strength, stamina, and fishing skill, so be ready. 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 Matt will make sure that you're equipped with the right gear and tackle to get the job done. You'll get out there aboard his 25' Parker pilothouse, a fishing vessel that was purpose-built to handle anything the Pacific can throw your way. Originally built in 2001, she's been fitted with a 300HP Suzuki engine and top-notch electronics, including GPS, Sonar, radio, and more. Captain Matt will provide everything for you, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Just bring some sunscreen and your California Fishing Licenses and you'll be good to go! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Newport Beach

San Clemente Island Full Day

NEW
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,800
Fishing in San Francisco
Fishing in San Francisco
Fishing in San Francisco
trip description for San Francisco Crab Trip (Only available November/December) in San Francisco

The cold, rich Pacific currents that flow along California's coast make the San Francisco Bay an angler's (or a crabber's) paradise! On this trip, Captain Craig will get you out into the Bay to drop down for Dungeness Crab, which are a delicious and easy species to catch. In addition, hitting the bottom for Crab will also let you get hooked up on Rockfish and potentially other bottomfish as well! 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 Crab Trip (Only Available November/December)

NEW
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,200
Fishing in San Francisco
Fishing in San Francisco
Fishing in San Francisco
trip description for San Francisco Bay Premier Trip in San Francisco

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 $1,140
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for Full Day 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

Full Day Local Offshore - 42’ Hershine

NEW
42 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,610
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
Fishing in San Diego
trip description for Coronados Half Day Trip in San Diego

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 $1,200
Fishing in Stockton
Fishing in Stockton
Fishing in Stockton
trip description for California Delta Freshwater Trip in Stockton

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 $400
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 59 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 Sequoia National Forest Fly Fishing guided by Scott.

Our guides in California are rated a 4.75 out of 5 based on 2701 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 / fishing lessons 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 about $490 to $2,450, but the average price for a half day trip in California is $786. The average price for a full day trip in California is $1,757.

What month is best for fishing in California?

The most popular season for fishing in California is summer, and most anglers book their trips 40 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