Private 8-Hour Sturgeon & Bass Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Private 8hour sturgeon and striped bass fishing charterAccommodates up to 6 guests with experienced crew guidanceMorning departure at 7 AM with free cancellation policy
Picture this: it's 7 AM, the California waters are calm, and you're gearing up for one of the most rewarding fishing experiences the Golden State has to offer. This isn't your typical half-day trip where you're rushed from spot to spot. We're talking about a full 8-hour private charter that gives you and up to 5 friends the entire boat to yourselves. No strangers crowding your space, no fighting over the best spots – just pure, focused fishing time targeting two of California's most prized catches: white sturgeon and striped bass.
When you step aboard with Here We Go Sport Fishing, you're getting access to prime California fishing grounds that many weekend warriors never see. This winter special puts you right in the sweet spot of sturgeon season, when these prehistoric giants are actively feeding and looking for the baits we'll be putting down. The beauty of an 8-hour charter is the flexibility – we can hit multiple spots, adjust our approach based on what the fish are telling us, and really dial in the bite. Your captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, reading currents, structure, and seasonal patterns that make the difference between going home with photos and going home with fish stories that'll last a lifetime. The private setup means we can cater the trip to your group's experience level, whether you're seasoned anglers or this is your first time targeting these species.
Sturgeon fishing is a whole different game than what most people are used to. We're talking heavy tackle here – think 7 to 8-foot rods with plenty of backbone, paired with reels that can handle long runs from fish that can easily top 100 pounds. The technique is all about patience and reading subtle bites. These fish don't slam your bait like a bass – they pick it up, mouth it, and you need to know exactly when to set that hook. We'll be using sliding sinker rigs with fresh baits like salmon roe, ghost shrimp, or grass shrimp, depending on what's working best that week. For the striped bass, we switch gears to more aggressive presentations. Live bait like anchovies or sardines work magic, but we'll also throw artificials when the fish are actively feeding. The key is staying mobile and adapting – sometimes the fish want it slow and deep, other times they're busting bait on the surface.
White sturgeon are the real stars of this show, and for good reason. These living dinosaurs have been cruising California waters for millions of years, and hooking into one is like connecting with prehistoric power. We're talking about fish that can live over 100 years and reach lengths of 10+ feet. The keeper-sized fish (between 40-60 inches) still pack serious punch, often weighing 30-80 pounds. What makes them so special is their fighting style – long, bulldogging runs that'll test your endurance and make your arms burn. Winter is prime time because they're feeding heavily before spawning season, making them more aggressive and willing to take your bait. The best part? Once you hook one, you'll never forget that first run.
Striped bass bring a completely different energy to the day. These silver bullets are pure aggression when they're feeding, often traveling in schools that can turn a quiet morning into non-stop action. California's striper population is healthy and strong, with fish ranging from schoolies in the teens to trophy fish pushing 30+ pounds. They're ambush predators that love structure – rocky points, drop-offs, and current breaks where baitfish get disoriented. When you find them, they'll often hit anything you put in the water. Unlike sturgeon, stripers fight with explosive jumps and screaming runs that'll have your drag singing. They're also excellent table fare, making them a favorite for anglers who love to eat what they catch.
This winter fishing special isn't something you'll find every day of the year. The 8-hour format gives you the best shot at both species, and the private charter setup means you're not sharing the experience with strangers. With free cancellation up to 3 days out, there's no risk in locking in your dates now. California's inshore fishing scene is world-class, and this trip puts you right in the middle of it with experienced guides who live and breathe these waters. Whether you're looking to check sturgeon off your bucket list, load up on stripers for the dinner table, or just spend a day on the water with your crew, this charter delivers. The fish are biting, the weather's been cooperative, and our calendar is filling up fast. Don't let this winter window close without getting out there – book your spot and get ready for the kind of fishing day that turns into the story you'll be telling for years.
Get ready to fish California waters aboard our spacious 30-foot Grady White, perfectly rigged for your 8-hour morning charter. This comfortable vessel handles six anglers with ease, featuring a private cabin, onboard toilet, and kitchen facilities for those long days chasing striped bass and massive sturgeon. Twin 250HP engines deliver smooth cruising to the best fishing spots, while our GPS and fish finder help locate where the big ones are hiding. The live bait well keeps your bait fresh, and with both an icebox and refrigerator onboard, your catch stays cold and your drinks stay refreshing. Whether you're targeting California's prized sturgeon or battling striped bass, this well-equipped fishing machine has everything you need for a productive day on the water. The spacious layout gives everyone room to fish comfortably, and when you need a break, relax in the cabin between bites.
Morone SaxatilisStriped bass are one of California's premier game fish, easily recognized by their distinctive dark stripes running along silver sides. Most fish we encounter range 20-40 pounds, though they can grow much larger. These structure-oriented fish love rocky points, drop-offs, and areas with current where baitfish concentrate. Winter months are excellent as they follow schools of anchovies and sardines into the Bay. Stripers are aggressive feeders and excellent table fare with firm, flaky white meat. They're also strong fighters that'll test your drag. Here's a local tip: watch for diving birds - they'll show you where the bait is, and that's where you'll find feeding stripers. Live anchovies work great, but fresh sardines are hard to beat.
Acipenser TransmontanusWhite sturgeon are North America's largest freshwater fish - these prehistoric giants can live over 100 years and reach massive sizes. Most we catch run 4-8 feet, but they can get much bigger. They're bottom feeders with bony plates instead of scales and use barbels near their mouth to locate food like clams, crabs, and small fish. During winter and spring, they move into the Delta and Bay areas from the ocean to spawn, making it prime time for targeting them. What makes sturgeon fishing special is their gentle bite - they'll mouth your bait for minutes before committing. The key is patience; when you feel that subtle tap, let them take it completely before setting the hook. Their fight is pure power once hooked.
Pittsburg, CA