Sunny San Diego, California is an appealing vacation destination for travelers of all interests. While some are drawn to the history, architecture, shopping, and dining options, others make their way this direction to take advantage of time in the great outdoors. The year-round fantastic weather in San Diego makes it a hot spot for anglers looking to get out on the water and take advantage of opportunities to reel in incredible catches! Whether you’re new to the sport or have a lifelong investment in the activity, knowing where to go and what vessel to choose to maximize time on the waves is essential and one of our boat fishing tips.
What’s Biting
San Diego hosts a collection of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs that are worth checking out, but many anglers will inevitably set their sights on more open waters where a variety of fish species are biting year-round. If you’re looking at fishing the bays and in shores of Southern California, plan on being able to reel in plenty of California halibut while you’re here—particularly in the San Diego Bay area. Move a bit further out into deeper waters if you’re interested in reeling in one of those bright red rockfish that live around the 150-ft. mark. Between March and June, white seabass are biting, while tuna provide an offshore challenge that experienced anglers will find irresistible!
SAN DIEGO HOT SPOTS AND HIDDEN GEMS
Depending on the type of fish you are after, there are so many wonderful places to fish in the San Diego area. For those looking for California halibut, look no further than San Diego Bay. These fish love hiding in rock piles or along edges of eelgrass beds, making catching one a unique challenge! If you are after a rockfish, head out to deeper waters. Rockfish, as the name suggests, tend to gather near structures and rocky sea bottoms around 150 feet deep. The deeper the water, the bigger the challenge! White seabass is a California staple, and these can be found nearly everywhere in the San Diego area. Whether you are fishing in the waters of Coronado Island, La Jolla, or Mission Bay, you are sure to find these fish! Lastly, yellowtail amberjacks are a local favorite fish that can reach sizes of upwards of 40 pounds. One of the best-kept local secrets is that yellowtail get larger the further south you go!
FISHING IS ALWAYS IN SEASON
Due to its year-round agreeable weather and wide variety of fish, San Diego is the perfect fishing destination that is a fisherman’s paradise no matter the time of year. California halibut can be found in the waters all 12 months of the year, although May through October is considered the prime time. Starry rockfish are most often caught October through December, although the vermillion rockfish is in season from March to June. Tuna, truly every angler’s dream catch, is in season July through October. Lastly, yellowtail amberjack, a San Diego favorite, is in season all year long! Spring, summer, fall, or winter, San Diego is the perfect fishing destination. Don’t be limited by the date on the calendar, get out on a boat and set sail in San Diego today!
Vessels to Accommodate the Fishing Journey
There are many options out there when it comes to settling into just the right fishing boat rental in San Diego for your day on the water, but choosing one that includes the best of technology, comfort and convenience is key to a successful experience. The Robalo 242 is a streamlined and efficient fishing vessel that comes highly recommended for your San Diego adventure. Complete with LED lighting options, upscale cushions, insulated fish storage boxes as well as four rod-holders, it’s a vessel that keeps you going without much effort. Similarly, the Sailfish 220 WAC is an amazing choice when you have plans to reel in plenty. This vessel includes access to 12 rod-holders as well as a 20-gallon bait tank for maximizing time on the waves. Simply bring your fishing rod and your bait and leave your worries behind. Whether you this is your first San Diego fishing adventure, or you consider yourself an expert on the water, there is a boat for every fisherman’s needs!
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
One thing every responsible fisherman must remember before heading out on the water is to make sure you follow all local guidelines. Any person 16 years or older is required to have a sport fishing license to fish in the Pacific Ocean. Make sure you don’t forget this crucial detail when planning your next fishing excursion in San Diego!
Contact us Today For More Boat Fishing Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy a fishing journey to San Diego, but don’t want to indulge the stress and worry that comes with hauling your own vessel—reach out to the team at the Carefree Boat Club. We offer members incredible opportunities to enjoy hassle-free boating as well as boat fishing tips and convenient access to the newest vessels on the market with a simple reservation. Contact us today to learn more, schedule a tour, and see how being part of our club can change your boating experience entirely!