Fishing in San Diego offers straightforward, well-organized tours for every skill level.
Three standout options rise above the rest: The 2-hour pier fishing lesson (perfect for beginners at $75), an intimate 4-person private charter (ideal for families or friends), and the comprehensive 12-hour Coronado Islands expedition (our favorite for serious anglers).
I’m especially fond of the pier fishing experience. It’s affordable, includes gear, and the instructors really know their stuff.
The half-day private charter wins points for flexibility and personal attention, while the Coronado Islands trip delivers the quintessential Southern California fishing adventure.
Let’s explore San Diego’s finest fishing tours.
Key Points
- The Crystal Pier Fishing Experience offers a personalized, catch-and-release fishing tour led by expert instructors, with a maximum group size of 8 for an intimate experience.
- The Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip by Pelican Sportfishing provides an exclusive charter for up to 4 participants, with high praise for the captain’s knowledge.
- The 2 Hour Guided Pier Fishing Adventure at Ocean Beach offers a small-group tour with all necessary equipment and personalized guidance, at a guaranteed low price.
- The Coronado Islands 12 Hour Fishing Trip provides a private tour on a 26-foot boat for up to 4 people, with on-board amenities and fishing assistance from the captain.
- The Pier Fishing Tour by SoCal Eco Tours offers a convenient location near public transportation, with inclusive fishing gear for a maximum of 10 participants.
2 Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience
The 2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience whisks visitors away to Crystal Pier, where they can enjoy the art of catch-and-release fishing.
Led by expert fishing instructors, the experience equips participants with all the necessary gear, bait, and tackle to try their hand at reeling in a variety of marine life, including octopus, stingrays, and guitar fish.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, the instructors provide personalized guidance and teach fundamental techniques to ensure an enjoyable and educational outing.
With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the experience offers an intimate setting that allows for one-on-one attention and the opportunity to bond with family or friends.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as the proximity to public transportation, make this activity inclusive and convenient for a wide range of visitors.
With a 94% recommendation rate and 5-star reviews, the 2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience is a must-try activity for anyone seeking an authentic and memorable fishing adventure in San Diego.
Read our full review: 2 Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience Review
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Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip for up to 4 People
For those seeking a more exclusive fishing adventure in San Diego, the Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip for up to 4 People offers a personalized and intimate excursion.
Operated by Pelican Sportfishing, this four-hour charter is suitable for anglers of all skill levels, with the captain’s involvement adjustable based on individual preferences.
The experience includes all necessary fishing gear and tackle, as well as a fish-cleaning service at no extra cost. Priced at $975 per group, the trip provides bottled water, instructions, and a valid California Fishing License that can be purchased upon pickup.
Departing and returning to the meeting point at 1800 Dana Landing Rd, the private tour ensures your group is the sole participant.
With an impressive 100% recommendation rate from 18 reviews, the Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip is praised for the captain’s knowledge and the overall feeling of a private outing with friends.
For those seeking a customized fishing experience in San Diego, this charter is well worth considering.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day San Diego Fishing Trip for up to 4 People Review
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2 Hour Guided Pier Fishing Adventure
A 2-Hour Guided Fishing Adventure in San Diego, USA offers a chance for anglers of all ages to experience fishing off the San Diego Pier at Ocean Beach.
Recommended by 94% of travelers with a perfect 5.0 rating, this small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, provides everything needed for a successful day of fishing, including poles, bait, tackle, line, and lures.
The tour’s knowledgeable guides, such as TC and Diego, offer setup assistance and valuable fishing tips to enhance the experience.
Participants can expect to target species like sand bass, mackerel, calico bass, and croaker during the approximately 2-hour activity.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, and near public transportation, making it easily accessible.
With a lowest price guarantee of $74.99 per person and the option to reserve now and pay later, this guided pier fishing adventure in San Diego offers a memorable and hassle-free way to enjoy the city’s coastal waters.
Read our full review: 2 Hour Guided Pier Fishing Adventure Review
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Coronado Islands 12 Hour Fishing Trip for up to 4 People
Off the coast of San Diego, the Coronado Islands 12 Hour Fishing Trip for up to 4 People offers anglers an unparalleled opportunity to reel in a bountiful catch.
With a private tour on the 26-foot Blackman Billfisher “Fatal Attraction,” a group of up to four can embark on a 12-hour adventure starting at 6:00 am.
The trip includes all necessary fishing gear, from Seeker rods and Daiwa reels to live, dead, and artificial bait. The captain provides fishing instruction and assistance throughout the journey.
Anglers will also enjoy an on-board restroom, ice for fish storage, and fish cleaning and bagging services.
While food and drink aren’t provided, guests are welcome to bring a sack lunch, snacks, and water.
Both a California One-Day Sport Fishing License and a Mexican Fishing License are required.
With 5-star reviews from all previous participants, this fishing excursion promises an unforgettable experience for anglers of all skill levels.
Read our full review: Coronado Islands 12 Hour Fishing Trip for up to 4 People Review
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Pier Fishing Tour – San Diego
Travelers can embark on a Pier Fishing Tour in San Diego, offered by SoCal Eco Tours. For $75 per person, this tour takes a maximum of 10 participants to fish from the pier. The tour includes all necessary fishing gear, making it an accessible experience for both experienced anglers and novices.
The tour departs from and returns to the meeting point at 1776 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106. The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, and service animals are allowed. The location is also near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors.
While the tour promises the “best time experience in San Diego,” one notable review indicates a disappointing experience due to a disengaged guide and lack of assistance, resulting in no bites or catches.
Read our full review: Pier Fishing Tour – San Diego Review
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The Sum Up
San Diego’s fishing tours offer a variety of options to suit different preferences. From pier fishing to private half-day trips, anglers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the area while reeling in their catch. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, these tours provide a great opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant maritime culture and abundant marine life.