Plan a Fishing Trip to Santa Cruz, CA

12 guidesBest months: April, May, June, July

What's Biting in Santa Cruz Right Now

Striped Bass
Excellentboth
Trolling, Casting, Live Bait Fishing
Steelhead
ExcellentVarious
Lingcod
GoodVarious
Dungeness Crab
Goodsaltwater
Crab Traps, Ring Nets, Hand Lines
Chinook Salmon
Goodboth
Trolling, Fly Fishing, Drift Fishing
Rockfish
GoodVarious
Coho Salmon
GoodVarious
Halibut
Goodsaltwater
Bottom Fishing, Trolling, Drift Fishing

What to Bring

Check with Santa Cruz guides about what gear is provided. Here's a recommended packing list:

Essentials

  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Hat or visor
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Non-marking shoes or deck shoes

Food & Personal

  • Water and drinks (stay hydrated)
  • Snacks or lunch
  • Cooler for your catch
  • Motion sickness medication (if needed)
  • Camera or phone (waterproof case recommended)
  • Valid fishing license (confirm with captain)

For freshwater / inshore Fishing

  • Bug spray
  • Rain gear
  • Light rain jacket

Book Your Travel

Prepare for Your Trip

Gear recommendations and packing list for your trip. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Things to Do in Santa Cruz

Activities for your non-fishing days

California Fishing License

License: Sport Fishing License and Sturgeon Report Card

Specific closures and regulations apply to certain waters, including the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Check current regulations before fishing.