FISHING

Since San Diego has 70 miles of coastline, it's a popular spot for outdoor activities. Fishing is a popular pastime for guests and residents because there are many locations all over the city that are ideal for anglers of all ages. San Diego has a mild climate, and there really is no such thing as a wrong time to go fishing, but the peak time is usually from April until October. 

San Diego Sport Fishing License

If you plan on fishing in the Pacific Ocean or any San Diego lake, you must obtain a sport fishing license if you’re 16 or older. If you only plan on fishing from public piers, you don't need to get a sport fishing license, but there are regulations such as a minimum size. If you’re just visiting San Diego, short-term fishing license options are available, such as a 1-day to 10-day license. If you’re in a group with individuals who are fishing, but you are not personally fishing, you will not need to obtain a permit, but if you do participate in any way, you should have one. 

Types of Fish in San Diego

People come from around the world to fish in San Diego’s waters. If you are deep-sea fishing in the city, you’ll most likely see tuna, sharks, yellowtail, marlin, and bottom fish. If you’re fishing from a pier in San Diego, you’ll find halibut, shovelnose guitarfish, walleye surfperch, corbina, and barred surfperch. If you plan on freshwater fishing, you’ll find plenty of species, including carp, blue catfish, bluegill, wipers, sturgeon, striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and bullhead catfish. 

San Diego Fishing Charters

Fishing charters are a great way to spend the day fishing in San Diego. There are usually various options, including family fishing trips, kid-friendly, and those best suited for large groups. There are also options for inshore, island, and offshore charters, depending on what you’re looking for. Fishing charters offer a lifetime experience and allow you to spend the day with a seasoned captain who can help make the experience one you won’t forget. 

Top Spots for Fishing in San Diego

Some of the best sports for fishing in the city are out on a boat in San Diego Bay or Mission Bay. Beaches are another hotspot popular for anglers of all ages, including Imperial Beach Pier, Shelter Island Pier, Ocean Beach Pier and many others. The best spots for fishing will have a lot to do with what type of fishing you plan on doing and the kind of fish you want to catch the most. Aside from saltwater fishing, San Diego also has a variety of lakes for freshwater fishing, including Dixon Lake.