Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch chinook salmon.
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.
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.
Likemind Fishing Charters
San Diego, California
Self-guided boat rentals and custom inshore & offshore private bareboat charters
Mustang Sportfishing
San Diego, California
Limitless Sportfishing
San Diego, California
Seasons Sportfishing
San Diego, California
Home to some of the best salt water fishing in the world.
Fish Withthe Finest
Oxnard, California
Experience the best team building activities in Ventura County with our deep sea fishing charters. Book now!
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
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
Reel Time Charters
Sausalito, California
Memorial At Sea | United States | Sanfranciscoashscattering.com
Pacific Fresh
Santa Cruz, California
PacificFresh specializes in wild troll-caught pacific fresh seafood including King Salmon, California Halibut, Lingcod and Pacific Snapper.
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.
Best Time to Catch Chinook Salmon
Chinook Salmon can be caught year-round in San Rafael. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Chinook Salmon
Chasing Chinook Salmon in the San Rafael area means focusing on the waters of the San Francisco Bay and its tributaries. The Sacramento River system, accessible via boat from San Rafael, is the lifeblood of these fish. Fall is the prime time, as mature salmon return to spawn. Trolling near the Marin Islands or along the shipping channels can be productive. Pay close attention to tide charts, as salmon often move with the tides. A local's secret is to use fresh bait, like anchovies or herring, and to keep it moving. Salmon in this area can be notoriously picky, so don't be afraid to experiment with different lures and presentations. Be aware of commercial traffic and strong currents in the bay. The Chinook runs in the Bay Area can fluctuate, so check recent reports and forecasts from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife before planning your trip.
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
Do I need a fishing license to fish for Chinook salmon near San Rafael?
Yes, a valid California sport fishing license is required to fish for Chinook salmon in the San Rafael area.
Where are some good spots to target Chinook salmon near San Rafael?
Chinook salmon can be found in the San Francisco Bay and its tributaries near San Rafael. Popular spots include areas near the Golden Gate Bridge and the Sacramento River Delta.
What regulations apply to Chinook salmon fishing in San Rafael?
Regulations for Chinook salmon change frequently. Consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for up-to-date season, bag limit, and size restrictions.
What kind of bait is effective for catching Chinook salmon near San Rafael?
Anglers often use lures like spinners, spoons, and plugs for Chinook salmon. Bait fishing with roe or anchovies can also be productive.
More Chinook Salmon Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in San Rafael
Ready to Catch Chinook Salmon in San Rafael?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.