Fishing Charters in California
Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch king mackerel.


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 King Mackerel
Peak season: May, June, July. Also good: April, August, September. Right now in February, activity is poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart

King Mackerel
Although not as well-known as other species in the area, you can find King Mackerel off the coast of San Diego, California, offering a unique Southern California saltwater fishing experience. These fish are typically more prevalent during the warmer months, from late summer through fall, when water temperatures rise. Look for them in deeper waters, particularly around offshore kelp paddies, underwater ridges, and areas with significant baitfish activity. Trolling is a common and effective method, using lures or live bait such as mackerel or sardines. A helpful tip for San Diego anglers: use a fish finder to locate schools of baitfish, as King Mackerel are likely to be nearby. Another tip is to try slow-trolling live bait near the surface. Keep in mind that King Mackerel are opportunistic feeders and can be attracted to shiny lures or baits that mimic their natural prey. While not as abundant as in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Atlantic coast, the King Mackerel in the San Diego area can still reach impressive sizes, offering a thrilling fight for anglers who are willing to put in the effort.
How to Catch King Mackerel
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for King Mackerel in San Diego.
King Mackerel Fishing Regulations in California
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
10 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Sport Fishing License
Part of the general bag limit of 10 fish. Check for any area-specific closures.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in California
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the daily bag limit for King Mackerel in San Diego?
In California, you're allowed to keep up to 10 King Mackerel per day. Be sure to always check the current regulations as they can change.
Is there a size restriction for King Mackerel in California?
No, there is currently no size limit for King Mackerel in California. You can keep any size you catch, provided you stay within the bag limit.
What kind of fishing license do I need to catch King Mackerel in San Diego?
You need a valid California Sport Fishing License to legally fish for King Mackerel in the San Diego area. Make sure your license is up-to-date before heading out.
Can I fish for King Mackerel year-round off the coast of San Diego?
Yes, the season for King Mackerel is open year-round in California. This allows anglers ample opportunity to target them whenever the conditions are favorable.
Other Species to Fish in San Diego
Ready to Catch King Mackerel in San Diego?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.




