San Diego fishing has a little bit of everything with a nearby ocean, rivers, beautiful bays, and a natural harbor all in one region. Amateur anglers will find places where they can cast a line, and expert anglers will find experiences worthy of a few fish stories. With an ample number of ships captains and charter boats, amazing year-round weather, and miles of open waters, you'll find all the best elements for successful fishing excursions here. Whether you want to do some casual fishing on the shore, step aboard a fishing charter boat in San Diego, or do some fly fishing, San Diego has you covered.

For many anglers, time on the water begins when they step aboard a fishing charter boat in San Diego. Knowledgeable captains are readily available to take you out on southern California waterways in every season of the year. Guided tours are a great option for many angling fishing vacations. If you're not much of an angler, time with an expert will help show you the ropes. And if fishing is one of your favorite pastimes, you could swap some fish tales with the captain. Chartered tours also come with the benefits of having all the equipment already available for you.

If you're planning on doing some deep sea fishing in San Diego on your vacations, you won't be disappointed. The deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean support a variety of sportfish, even some tuna that top 300 pounds. The catches vary from season to season; you could ask about what you're likely to find when you make reservations for a fishing charter boat in San Diego.

San Diego Map

Sometimes deep sea fishing in San Diego excursions leave the U.S. waters behind, sailing into Mexico. In the cooler months of the year, skipjack, calico bass, and various species of tuna make their way to the warmer waters of Baja California—as do anglers on fishing excursions. These extended excursions usually begin with some San Diego fishing could last for a few days or even up to a month, depending on the vacation packages booked. Some of the longer trips include short getaways to gorgeous little off-shore islands.

Even if you never hop aboard a charter boat or cast a line, you still will have the chance to enjoy the benefits of San Diego fishing. Many restaurants, everything from tiny fish taco huts to fine-dining establishments, serve fresh catches.

Port Loma is well loved for its seafood market, and fish dishes include some terrific clam chowder. You also could grab some take-out from one of the harbor-side eateries and enjoy a meal back at your vacation rentals or on an impromptu picnic on the beach.

The city is also known for its quality fishing. A variety of charter boats are available to take you on Port Loma fishing excursions. Heading out into San Diego Bay with good gear and a knowledgeable captain will give you the advantage as you look for yellow tail, tuna, and other major catches.

Every April, the community gathers to celebrate deep sea fishing in San Diego. Like all good special events, the Day at the Docks features excellent food and fun. Port Loma is also one of the best places along the coast for whale watching during the winter months, especially at the Cabrillo National Monument. The nearby Ocean Beach Pier is one place to enjoy some San Diego fishing without stepping aboard a boat.