Angling Offshore In San Diego

By: Tom Gibson

People often visit San Diego for the beaches, but there is much more to do in the City. Deep sea fishing is an option few take advantage of, but probably wish they did. There is a mighty big ocean off the coast and it is full of good fishing.

Deep sea fishing is a niche of fishing unto its own. You board a boat at the crack of dawn and head out a few miles to quality fishing spots. If you prefer, there are longer trips that take you out to the big fish like tuna over three or four days.

The waters off of San Diego are excellent for fishing. The warm waters and kelp beds provide a perfect habitat. The prime location is between three to ten miles offshore. The fish in this area are plentiful and include some great game fish.

When I say a wide variety of fish, I mean it. How about one trip where you can catch everything ranging from Dorado to sea bass to barracuda? Take a multiday trip and you will be able to get far enough offshore to hit the tuna.

The boat trip options in San Diego really come down to two spots. In the center of town, you will find a number of boats leaving from San Diego Harbor. Oceanside is the second spot in the North County area. You can also charter a boat, but bring your big wallet.

There are numerous boats taking anglers and each offers different trips and accommodations. The prices, of course, also vary. In general, you can expect boats with six to 15 berths and prices ranging from forty bucks a day on up.

San Diego Sportfishing, Inc., is a popular provider out of San Diego Harbor. The company provides half to three quarter day trips although charters are available. The three boats are the Point Loma, Mission Belle and Daily Double.

Up the coast in Oceanside, you can charter a 32 foot Rodovich Sportfisher via the Fish Taxi charter. Captained by Don Nelson, this is a much more personal experience than one would find with the San Diego Sportfishing operation.

San Diego is a warm area, but it can get cold in the morning on the boat. Make sure to use a layered clothing approach when you head out on even a half day trip. Remember, it will be cold in the morning and hot the rest of the day.

The second issue to consider is sea sickness. The boat is going to roll, even if it is a large boat. Yes, we are all tough men and women, but it does not really matter. Getting sea sick on a trip is horrific. Make sure to take sea sickness preventive measures.

The beaches of San Diego are great, but the fishing off the coast is equally good. If you consider yourself an angler, make sure to take at least a half day trip if you are in town.