Fishing Charters in California

Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch chinook salmon.

Corsario Ocean Adventures - Corsario Ocean Adventures
Corsario Ocean Adventures

Corsario Ocean Adventures

Avalon, California

Book a charter for fishing trips or leisure cruises with Corsario Charters located in Avalon, California on Catalina Island. Join the top sports fishing boat on Catalina Island as you enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the California coast.

inshore
Avalon, California
Ranch Hunt Club Company : Hunting Clubs And Ranches With Fishing - Ranch Hunt Club Company : Hunting Clubs And Ranches With Fishing
Ranch Hunt Club Company : Hunting Clubs And Ranches With Fishing

Ranch Hunt Club Company : Hunting Clubs And Ranches With Fishing

Geyserville, California

We list over 200 Oregon and California Hunting Ranches, Hunting Clubs, Public Lands for Boar, Deer, Ducks, Turkey, pheasant, dove, quail and pigs. Hunting land property for elk, deer, pigs, upland birds and waterfowl. Private access to free hunting and fishing maps to the best Oregon an California hunting places.

inshore
Geyserville, California
Likemind Fishing Charters - Likemind Fishing Charters
Likemind Fishing Charters

Likemind Fishing Charters

San Diego, California

Self-guided boat rentals and custom inshore & offshore private bareboat charters

offshoreinshore
San Diego, California
Mustang Sportfishing - Mustang Sportfishing
Mustang Sportfishing

Mustang Sportfishing

San Diego, California

inshore
San Diego, California
Limitless Sportfishing - Limitless Sportfishing
Limitless Sportfishing

Limitless Sportfishing

San Diego, California

inshore
San Diego, California
Seasons Sportfishing - Seasons Sportfishing
Seasons Sportfishing

Seasons Sportfishing

San Diego, California

Home to some of the best salt water fishing in the world.

inshore
San Diego, California
Fish Withthe Finest - Fish Withthe Finest
Fish Withthe Finest

Fish Withthe Finest

Oxnard, California

Experience the best team building activities in Ventura County with our deep sea fishing charters. Book now!

offshore
Oxnard, California
Sea Shift Sportfishing - Sea Shift Sportfishing
Sea Shift Sportfishing

Sea Shift Sportfishing

Bodega Bay, California

Bodega Bay Sportfishing Center - Sea Shift , Fort Bragg and SF. Specializing in Salmon, Halibut, Crab, Tuna Rockfish and Lingcod. Fishing Reports Available

freshwateroffshoreTunaStriped Bass
Bodega Bay, California
Pole Dancin Sportfishing - Pole Dancin Sportfishing
Pole Dancin Sportfishing

Pole Dancin Sportfishing

Bodega Bay, California

Book your next fishing charter aboard a 27’ North River with high quality fishing gear, specializing in salmon, rock fish, lingcod and crab off the Bodega Bay coast

freshwaterSalmonLingcod
Bodega Bay, California
Reel Time Charters - Reel Time Charters
Reel Time Charters

Reel Time Charters

Sausalito, California

Memorial At Sea | United States | Sanfranciscoashscattering.com

inshore
Sausalito, California
Pacific Fresh - Pacific Fresh
Pacific Fresh

Pacific Fresh

Santa Cruz, California

PacificFresh specializes in wild troll-caught pacific fresh seafood including King Salmon, California Halibut, Lingcod and Pacific Snapper.

freshwaterCalifornia HalibutSalmon
Santa Cruz, California
Tanker City Sportfishing - Tanker City Sportfishing
Tanker City Sportfishing

Tanker City Sportfishing

Half Moon Bay, California

Experience a unique and thrilling day on the water when take a trip with all-in-one private fishing charter.

inshore
Half Moon Bay, California

Best Time to Catch Chinook Salmon

Chinook Salmon can be caught year-round in Monterey. Right now in February, activity is low.

Book a Chinook Salmon Charter

Seasonal Activity Chart

Chinook Salmon

Chinook Salmon

both

Monterey Bay offers a unique opportunity to target Chinook Salmon in a stunning coastal setting. The salmon runs here are heavily influenced by ocean conditions and forage availability, so monitoring local reports is crucial. The best time to fish for Chinook is typically late summer and fall, as they stage near the mouth of the bay before heading upstream to spawn. Trolling with downriggers is a popular technique, allowing you to present your lures at the depths where salmon are holding. Try using anchovies or spoons as bait, and don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and presentations. A local tip: pay attention to the depth finders for bait balls, as the salmon will often be nearby. Access to the fishery is readily available from several harbors around Monterey Bay. Chinook salmon in this area are known for their size and fighting ability, so be prepared for a battle.

How to Catch Chinook Salmon

Chinook Salmon Fishing Regulations in California

License Required

Sport Fishing License

Regulations vary widely by river and time of year; consult the current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations booklet for specific locations and seasons. Many rivers have specific gear restrictions and quota systems.

⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.

Related Species in California

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best bait to use for Chinook Salmon in Monterey?

Popular choices include herring, anchovies, and various salmon lures. Local tackle shops can provide specific recommendations based on current conditions.

Are there any specific spots near Monterey known for Chinook Salmon fishing?

Monterey Bay itself, along with nearby river mouths when salmon are running, are often productive. Check local fishing reports for the most up-to-date information.

Do I need a license to fish for Chinook Salmon in Monterey, CA?

Yes, you need a valid California Sport Fishing License to fish for Chinook Salmon.

What size Chinook Salmon can I expect to catch in Monterey?

The size of Chinook Salmon varies, but mature fish can range from 10 to over 30 pounds. Check local fishing reports for recent catch sizes.

More Chinook Salmon Fishing in California

Other Species to Fish in Monterey

Ready to Catch Chinook Salmon in Monterey?

Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.