Featured Halibut Charters in San Francisco
Expert captains ready to take you on your next halibut adventure.
GATECRASHER FISHING ADVENTURES
Come join www.gatecrasherfishing.com for an epic guided saltwater fishing experience for Salmon, Halibut, Striped Bass, Shark, Sturgeon, Ling Cod, Rock Cod, Crab.
Unforgettable Fishing Adventures
Unforgettable Fishing in the San Francisco Bay and Outside the Golden Gate. Fishing for King Salmon, Halibut, Striped Bass, Dungeness crab, Ling Cod, Rockfish and Sharks. Experience a world class Fishery with views of the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge and located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, California.
Warrior Poet Sportfishing
Come out on the Warrior Poet for full and half day fishing charters on the San Francisco Bay and beyond the Golden Gate, departing from Fisherman's Wharf. Fishing Charters for rock fish, sturgeon, stripers, salmon, shark, Dungeness crab, tuna, ling cod, halibut on the San Francisco Bay and beyond the Golden Gate.
Sole-Man Sportfishing
We offer Private & Shared Fishing Charter in Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco. Experience some of the finest Salmon, Halibut, Rockfish, Sturgeon & Shark fishing.
Best Time to Catch Halibut
Halibut can be caught year-round in San Francisco. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Halibut
San Francisco Bay offers a surprisingly productive Halibut fishery. The key is understanding their migratory patterns and preferred habitat. These flatfish move into the bay in spring to feed and spawn, then head back out to deeper waters in the fall. Focus your efforts in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms near channels and structure, such as the area around Paradise Cove or near the Bay Bridge pilings. Drifting live bait, like shiner perch or small smelt, is a classic technique. Alternatively, bouncing a leadhead jig with a soft plastic trailer can also be very effective. Pay attention to the tides; Halibut often feed more aggressively during tidal changes. Be aware of the strong currents in the bay and use enough weight to maintain bottom contact. The best time is typically April to October.
How to Catch Halibut
Halibut Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per day
Size Limit
22-inch minimum total length
License Required
Sport fishing license
Specific area closures may apply; check current regulations before fishing. Gear restrictions may apply in certain areas.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the minimum size Halibut I can keep in San Francisco Bay?
The minimum size limit for Halibut in California is 22 inches total length. Any Halibut smaller than that must be released immediately.
How many Halibut can I keep per day in the San Francisco area?
The bag limit for Halibut in California is 3 per day. Make sure you are aware of this limit before you go fishing.
What are some good baits or lures for catching Halibut in San Francisco Bay?
Popular choices include live bait like anchovies or shiner perch, as well as artificial lures such as swimbaits and bucktail jigs. Focus on areas with structure and current.
Do I need a fishing license to fish for Halibut in San Francisco?
Yes, a valid California sport fishing license is required to fish for Halibut in San Francisco Bay and other California waters.
More Halibut Fishing in California
Other Species to Fish in San Francisco
Ready to Catch Halibut in San Francisco?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.