San Diego’s fishing scene offers practical choices for every type of angler. Among the best options, the 12-hour Coronado Islands trip stands out for serious fishing enthusiasts, delivering prime opportunities for yellowtail and tuna catches. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the 2-hour pier fishing experience, which brings surprising encounters with octopus and stingrays. For those preferring privacy and personalization, the 4-person private half-day excursion provides dedicated attention from local experts. Each of these carefully vetted tours delivers outstanding value. Check out our favorite fishing adventures below.
Key Points
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The Coronado Islands 12-Hour Fishing Trip offers a private excursion targeting yellowtail and tuna with an experienced captain and all necessary equipment.
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The 2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience provides a catch-and-release activity with high customer satisfaction and accessibility for wheelchair users.
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The Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip boasts a perfect recommendation rate and includes a fish-cleaning service, bottled water, and a California fishing license.
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The 2-Hour Guided Fishing Tour offers a small group experience with expert guides, targeting species like sand bass and mackerel, and includes all gear with free cancellation.
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The Pier Fishing Tour – San Diego provides an immersive 2-hour experience led by an experienced captain, teaching fishing techniques and locations, with accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers.
Coronado Islands 12 Hour Fishing Trip for up to 4 People
Frequently, anglers embark on the Coronado Islands 12 Hour Fishing Trip to reel in a variety of prized catches. This private 12-hour fishing excursion accommodates up to 4 people, allowing them to fish for yellowtail, tuna, and more while enjoying scenic views.
The experienced captain handles the fish cleaning and storage, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The trip includes all necessary fishing gear and tackle, such as Seeker rods, Daiwa reels, and live, dead, and artificial bait. The captain provides fishing instruction and assistance, making it an ideal choice for both experienced and novice anglers. Proper storage, ice, and cleaning services are included, allowing guests to savor their catch later.
To participate, anglers must obtain a California One-Day Sport Fishing License ($16.20 per person) and a Mexican Fishing License ($20 per person). A passport is also required for entry to the Coronado Islands.
The trip departs at 6:00 am from the meeting point in San Diego, and the activity concludes back at the same location.
Read our full review: Coronado Islands 12 Hour Fishing Trip for up to 4 People Review
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2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience
For those seeking a convenient and enjoyable fishing experience, the 2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience offers a promising opportunity.
With an impressive 94% recommendation rate from 82 reviews, this catch-and-release activity provides participants with all the necessary equipment and expert guidance.
Situated on the iconic Crystal Pier, the experience invites both families and small groups to learn fishing fundamentals and techniques from knowledgeable instructors.
Whether a beginner or an experienced angler, everyone can expect to catch and safely release a variety of marine life, including octopus, stingrays, and guitar fish.
Accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, the activity is also conveniently located near public transportation.
Priced competitively at $74.99 per person, the 2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience offers a flexible and affordable way to enjoy a unique outdoor activity in the heart of the city.
Read our full review: 2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience Review
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Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip for up to 4 People
Offering a more immersive and personalized fishing experience, the Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip for up to 4 People has earned a perfect 100% recommendation rate from 18 delighted travelers.
Suitable for anglers of all skill levels, this excursion provides complete fishing gear, tackle, and even a fish-cleaning service at no extra cost. The captain’s involvement is flexible, allowing the group to decide how much hands-on guidance they prefer.
Priced at $975 per group, the trip includes bottled water, instructions, and a California fishing license, which can be purchased at pickup for $16.20.
The meeting point is the boat ramp located in front of the public restrooms between the parking lot and water, with the activity ending back at the same location.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals, though children under 5 must sit on laps.
With a non-refundable policy, this private tour ensures your group will be the only participants, providing an intimate and customized fishing experience.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip for up to 4 People Review
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2-Hour Guided Fishing Tour
The 2-Hour Guided Fishing Tour on the San Diego Pier at Ocean Beach provides an engaging fishing experience for all ages. Targeting species like sand bass, mackerel, calico bass, and croaker, the small group tour (max 10 participants) is recommended by 94% of travelers and has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from 18 reviews.
Knowledgeable guides like TC and Diego offer expert tips and tricks to enhance the overall experience, engaging with participants throughout.
The tour includes all necessary fishing gear, from poles and bait to tackle and lures. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and wheelchair-accessible transportation, the tour caters to a wide range of visitors.
While some feedback suggests a lack of structured elements, the majority of reviews highlight the fun, engaging nature of this fishing opportunity, particularly for families looking to let kids learn and catch fish.
Priced at €72.16 per person, the 2-Hour Guided Fishing Tour provides a flexible, accessible way to enjoy fishing in San Diego.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Guided Fishing Tour Review
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Pier Fishing Tour – San Diego
This Pier Fishing Tour in San Diego offers an immersive angling experience for up to 10 participants. Lasting approximately 2 hours, the tour takes guests to the best fishing spots along the pier, with all necessary gear provided.
Led by an experienced captain, the tour promises to teach anglers sea secrets and guide them to optimal fishing locations. Priced at $75 per person, the tour earns a 3.7 rating based on 3 reviews, with some mixed feedback.
While one traveler expressed disappointment, the tour is still accessible to most, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as allowance for service animals. Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour starts and ends at the same meeting point on Shelter Island Drive.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers also have the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Pier Fishing Tour – San Diego Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Fishing Gear?
Most fishing tour operators encourage guests to bring their own gear. This allows you to use equipment you’re familiar with and ensures you have the right tackle for the trip. However, some tours may provide rental gear if needed.
What Should I Pack for the Fishing Trip?
When packing for a fishing trip, be sure to bring essential items like sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, snacks, and a cooler with drinks. Don’t forget your fishing license and any necessary gear, though some tours may provide rods and tackle.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
Most fishing tour operators don’t have strict age restrictions, but they may recommend certain activities for different age groups. It’s best to check with the specific tour company to understand their policies and recommendations for participants of all ages.
Do I Need a Fishing License for These Tours?
Participants generally need a valid fishing license to join these tours, as required by state regulations. Most tour operators will provide information on obtaining a license or can assist customers in securing one prior to the excursion.
Can I Catch and Keep the Fish I Catch?
Whether you can keep the fish you catch depends on the specific fishing tour. Some tours may allow you to keep your catch, while others may be catch-and-release only. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
Recap
San Diego offers a variety of fishing tours to suit any angler’s needs. Whether you prefer a full-day adventure to the Coronado Islands or a quick pier fishing experience, there’s something for all. These tours provide all the necessary equipment and knowledgeable guides to ensure a successful and enjoyable day on the water. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect fishing tour to make the most of your San Diego visit.