Fishing Guides & Charters in California

Browse 360 fishing guides and charters available in California.

The Golden State offers an astounding diversity of angling experiences, from the rugged Pacific coastline to the towering Sierra Nevada mountains. California's geography creates unique fisheries, making it a premier destination for any angler. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of offshore saltwater fishing or the tranquility of casting in a pristine alpine lake, California has something to offer. The state's extensive coastline provides access to prized species like Halibut, White Seabass, and even Marlin further offshore. Inland, you'll find exceptional freshwater fishing in rivers and lakes teeming with trout, bass, and salmon.

California's diverse climate means fishing seasons vary greatly depending on the species and location. Generally, spring and fall are considered prime times for many fisheries. Spring sees the rivers come alive with migrating Steelhead and Salmon, while fall brings cooler temperatures ideal for bass fishing in lakes like those around Lake Arrowhead. San Diego is a year-round saltwater fishing destination, offering opportunities for Yellowtail, Tuna, and other pelagic species. San Francisco Bay is renowned for its Striped Bass and Sturgeon fishing, particularly in the fall. For freshwater enthusiasts, South Lake Tahoe boasts exceptional Rainbow Trout and Mackinaw fishing in its crystal-clear waters.

Consider a guided trip to maximize your chances of success, especially if you're targeting specific species or unfamiliar with the local waters. Cities like Monterey and Port Hueneme offer numerous charter options for saltwater fishing, while areas near Eureka provide access to world-class Salmon and Steelhead rivers. Remember to check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for any specific area you plan to fish, as regulations can vary widely. With a little planning, your California fishing adventure will be unforgettable.

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360 charters found

Left Coast Sportfishing Dana Point - Left Coast Sportfishing Dana Point
Claimed
Left Coast Sportfishing Dana Point

Left Coast Sportfishing Dana Point

4.9(83)Top Rated

Owner operated private charters and Captain Services in Dana Point, California. We put you on the fish!

Dana Point, California
Just Get Wet - Just Get Wet
Just Get Wet

Just Get Wet

5(480)Top Rated

We are an active, welcoming community of freedivers and surfers in San Diego who don't take ourselves too seriously. We believe that getting people in the ocean is the best way to promote ocean conservation. If the waves are flat go dive, if the surf is good grab a board, as long as you get wet you're doing it right

San Diego, California
Pelican Sportfishing - Pelican Sportfishing
Pelican Sportfishing

Pelican Sportfishing

5(277)Top Rated

Pelican Sportfishing is a San Diego 5-Star Rated Private Fishing Charter offering inshore and offshore guided fishing trips for up to 4 people. Fish the San Diego coastline, La Jolla, Point Loma, Coronado Islands or head offshore for big game fish.

San Diego, California
AC Fly Fishing - AC Fly Fishing
AC Fly Fishing

AC Fly Fishing

5(263)Top Rated

The Premier Fly Fishing guide service in Northern California, our Lower Sacramento Redding fly fishing guides are committed to quality.

Redding, California
Almanor Fishing Adventures Guide Service - Almanor Fishing Adventures Guide Service
Almanor Fishing Adventures Guide Service

Almanor Fishing Adventures Guide Service

5(217)Top Rated

Contact Capt RobToday 530-570-9925 To Book Your Trip With Almanor Fishing Adventures for Trophy Trout and on Lake Almanor. Fishing Lake Almanor is the greatest around!

Speckled Trout
Lake Almanor, California
Big Daddy's Guide Service - Big Daddy's Guide Service
Big Daddy's Guide Service

Big Daddy's Guide Service

5(198)Top Rated

Contact Capt Bryan Today 530-370-1001 To Book Your Trip With Big Daddy's Guide Service for Trophy Trout and Kokanee on Lake Almanor, Bucks Lake, Eagle Lake, Lake Davis and Lake Tahoe. Specializing in light tackle trolling and fly fishing.

Speckled Trout
Lake Almanor, California
Deepsea-fishing - Deepsea-fishing
Deepsea-fishing

Deepsea-fishing

5(186)Top Rated

Book Direct Here! - Fishing charters in Huntington Beach, and Long Beach, CA. Take your group on a Deep Sea Fishing adventure with Captain Woody.

Huntington Beach, California
Boundless Boat Charters - Boundless Boat Charters
Boundless Boat Charters

Boundless Boat Charters

5(176)Top Rated

As the premier San Diego fishing charter for private groups, we specialize in taking families with kids just learning to fish as well as seasoned anglers on fishing adventures.

San Diego, California
SalmonSacRiver.com - SalmonSacRiver.com
SalmonSacRiver.com

SalmonSacRiver.com

5(146)Top Rated

Photos of the 2023 spring striped bass run. On the Sacramento River and Feather River.

Striped Bass
Red Bluff, California
Fish Further Charters - Fish Further Charters
Fish Further Charters

Fish Further Charters

5(145)Top Rated

Inshore, Offshore and Island Charters for the perfect 4-Pack fishing adventure in San Diego. 1/2 day, 3/4 day Full Day. Veteran Owned!

San Diego, California
Ironhead Guide Service - Ironhead Guide Service
Ironhead Guide Service

Ironhead Guide Service

5(140)Top Rated

The beautiful Smith River is located on the Pacific coast of northern California near the Oregon border.

Happy Camp, California
Sierra Drifters Guide Service - Sierra Drifters Guide Service
Sierra Drifters Guide Service

Sierra Drifters Guide Service

5(127)Top Rated

We guide you to trophy trout fishing in the eastern sierra using a fun and user friendly approach to fly fishing with our expert team.

Speckled Trout
Mammoth Lakes, California

Fishing Cities in California

All Cities in California

106 cities

Plan a Fishing Trip in California

See the best times to fish in California, top species by season, and find local guides.

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Fish Species in California

Types of Fishing in California

Saltwater Fishing3 guides
Freshwater Fishing3 guides

California Fishing License & Regulations

Fishing License

Cost: Resident: $54.00 | Non-Resident: $145.94

Required for ages 16+. Ocean enhancement and report card stamps may be required.

Buy a California fishing license →

SpeciesSeasonBag LimitSize Limit
Largemouth BassYear-round5 per day12-inch minimum
Spotted BassYear-round5 per day12-inch minimum
CarpYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
Flathead CatfishYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
Striped BassYear-round2 per day18-inch minimum
CrappieYear-round25 per dayNo size limit
White BassYear-round25 per dayNo size limit
Channel CatfishYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
BluegillYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
Blue CatfishYear-roundNo limitNo size limit
Hybrid Striped BassYear-round2 per dayNo size limit
Red DrumYear-roundNoneNone
SnapperYear-round10 per day, no more than 5 of any one species10-inch minimum size for most species
TunaYear-round10 per dayNo size limit
GrouperYear-round10 per day, no more than 5 of any one speciesNo size limit

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