San Diego is home to some of the best fishing destinations in the country. With year-round fishing conditions, it houses the world’s largest sports fleet. Fishing is productive from the shoreline, a pier, kayaks, sport fishing vessels, and private boats, giving plenty of opportunities for different fishing excursions. The weather ranges from an average of 76 degrees in the summer to 50 degrees in the winter with very low humidity, offering comfortable temperatures for fishing all year-round. June through September offers the widest variety of species, but any time of the year is a great time for a San Diego fishing trip.
Saltwater Fishing
Anglers around the world come to San Diego for the saltwater fishing. Charter options range from family fishing trips for everyone to 15-day trips for the hard-core fishing enthusiast. Plan your perfect trip to fit your skill level and the type of fish you are looking to catch. The crew on your chartered boat will help you process anything caught or visit one of the local processing facilities. Offshore, the following species are available for fishing:
- Yellowfin
- Bluefin
- Yellowtail
- Mahi Mahi
- Albacore
- Mako
- Marlin
Towards the inshore areas, a different set of fishing adventures await. These species are available closer to shore:
- Calico bass
- Halibut
- Rockfish
- Sheephead
- Corbina
- White Sea bass
- Croaker
Freshwater Fishing
San Diego is number two on Field and Stream magazine’s list of America’s Best Fishing Cities. There are over 20 California lakes and reservoirs stocked with plenty of freshwater species. The world’s largest bass was actually caught in Dixon Lake right in San Diego, plus ten more of the world’s top 25 biggest largemouth bass in the world. The freshwater species in the area include:
- Bluegill
- Catfish
- Carp
- Trout
- Sturgeon
- Crappie
- Largemouth bass
You can rent a private boat or head out with a San Diego expert fishing guide for a professional experience. Fishing from the California shore is also available in plenty of locations up and down the river. Design your perfect fishing trip to fit any skill level.
Pier Fishing
There are seven ocean piers in San Diego that allow fishing. It is a great low-cost option for those looking to get started, but can also provide a challenge for more experienced anglers. Fishing from the public piers does not require a license, unlike other fishing areas in California. This makes it a great chance for the younger crows to try their hand at the California sport. Many piers have bait and tackle shops nearby for ease of fishing. You won’t even need to pack your fishing gear. Some of the species found off of the piers include:
- Calico bass
- Spotted Bay bass
- Sand bass
- Leopard Sharks
- Barracuda
- Bat Rays
- Bonito
Reach Out to the Best Fishing Guides in San Diego
The best fishing guides in San Diego know where to make the best catch. Contact one of these guides to help you plan where to stay, the best places to eat and the best local attractions in California.